Paying the price for locked doors

How much does it cost to keep an MI out of the hospital? Why is there a price tag on us? Who pays?

I am saddened by the fact that there are people, sick people, walking the streets, because they cannot afford even a loaf of bread.

Most mental illnesses can be treated. Why then are these people walking around "sick?"

There used to be a day program here. It was cut because of money. I know the economy is tight. These people need help. I know that some don't want help. I know that taxpayers are burdended by higher fees and what not. How can someone put a price tag on a human life?

The state is building a new outpatient center down the street from me. That's cool. But at what price? Are they gonna have better programs? Will the outpatients be helped? I SAY no! A shiny new building won't give these people any new tools. I believe that everyone can overcome their illness. The old joke is "how many psychiatrists does it take to change a lightbulb? The lightbulb has to want to change first."

I've been fortunate to have had the "drive" and "vision" to see beyond the locked doors.

There's been alot of interesting spectulations running around my head lately. Like should there be a "softer" institution? Or why do some live a "normal" life and others do not? Or why does the public feel so against the MI's? What are they afraid of? Are they afraid they will "catch it" through osomosis?

I'm not angry. I apologize if it sounds like I am. I'm frustrated. I am fond of the MI. I am one of them. I care about their lives. It hurts bad when I see them suffer.

Why are there MI's who don't want help? I know it is a symptom of the disease. BUT WHY?

I am gonna get Medicare in July. I have to tell my insurance company. I called to find out where to send the information to. The first gentleman I spoke with said I have to write to three different letters to three different places, because they don't share information. Which I have done. My insurnace is through my pension from NYS. In this era of job loss and scandal by government agencies, wouldn't it be easier to consolidate?

Here's a case in point.

I got a bill from a local hospital. There was no itemized information on it about what service was done. I called the business office and they said they would send an itemized bill. Why didn't they do that in the first place? Just think of the savings it would be. One employee, one piece of paper, one envelope, and one stamp. No wonder that place needs money. Oh! They don't recycle either.

I guess I'll jump off my soap box. I've vented enough.

Live, love, laugh, learn, listen,

Dave