Review: We all need this book
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 12 1, 2012
As a doctor's wife I can appreciate all the hard work the author has done to earn his medical degree and the hours he puts in caring for patients now. I doubly appreciate the efficient way his book is written for the average reader and most average readers need this book.Dr. Schwindt, in a clear and simple manner, clarifies information about medical costs; ER and urgent care -where to go for certain symptoms; and how to empower ourselves and save money with simple decision-making guidelines.Included are good definitions of sore throats, strep throats, mononucleosis, blood counts, the use of antibiotics, and the average costs of some tests.Those of us who are parents have dealt with the common ear pains and infections in our children. Dr. Schwindt does an excellent job of explaining symptoms, what causes them, and treatment options. As a parent I never felt that any illness, infection, or surgery was MINOR but the author's explanations make so much sense, I could have saved much panic and money.Pinkeye, allergies, urinary tract infections, back pain  and their treatments are also discussed as are simple but comprehensive definitions of X-rays, CT Scans, and MRIs and when they should be used.The chapter on Influenza with information about vaccinations, antiviral medications, and secondary infections is something we need to be familiar with.I was surprised to see a chapter on dental care but why not since lack of oral health can case life-threatening oral infections. Dr. Schwindt also discusses costs of dental care in the ER and which community resources could also provide care.We wonder why medical care is so high but sometimes we're not aware that in 2011 $320 billion was spent on prescription drugs alone. Dr.Schwindt explains how we can save with generic drugs, why we should beware of samples and our insurance companies changing their policies and fee structure, prior authorizations, and prescription coupons.This book is loaded with information. I was particularly interested on the chapter on Electronic Medical and Health Records. My questions have involved the federally mandated electronic record-keeping systems and electronic prescribing practices. I feel better informed with the explanations provided in this book.There is also one appendix with valuable online resources and another with the Key Point Summary of the book. This is an excellent mini-reference. In fact, some lives could depend on it. Buy it now.