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RISING WOMEN EXPERT ADVICE...
With the changes in the economy how can I possibly afford any health
care services that I have to pay for myself?
You may think economic change with shrinking incomes and increasing costs
will mean that there is little left for additional health care expenses.
However, you now have a wonderful opportunity to choose the health care
options that YOU want. Effective January 1, 2009, Albertans are no longer
required to pay Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan premiums. This premium
elimination puts an annual amount of $500 in the pocket of each Albertan (or
over $1,000 per family) to spend how they wish – on the health care of their
choice! Make a point of spending it where you want your health to go.
Learn to take care of yourselves. You might choose to use this opportunity
and invest in a health-enhancing activity – hockey, fitness club, yoga,
Tai-Chi, cooking classes, etc. – the list is endless. Or you could consult a
complementary health care professional, such as a naturopathic doctor,
chiropractor, acupuncturist, massage therapist, midwife or nutritionist to
enhance your health options. These professionals can equip us with
much-needed health-promoting activities and lifestyle changes that will
enhance our healthcare to a new level.
Be deliberate about this decision! Don’t just let your general budget absorb
this gift from Alberta Health and Wellness. You might cost out an extended
health care plan. Individual plans contribute specified amounts to the cost
of specific services and so can give assistance in finding the health care
services that work most effectively for you and your family. Remember that
day-to-day helpful health promoting activities are powerful tools in
preventing health problems from developing.
For the self-employed there are even more effective options. An incorporated
company or a sole proprietor with at least one dedicated employee can
establish a Health Trust or Health Spending Account to fund health care
expenses within your business, including the premiums for an extended health
plan. The eligible health care costs are considered a business expense which
will reduce personal taxable income more cost-effectively than just using
the standard federal medical expense deduction from personal taxable income.
Take this opportunity to choose where the savings on health care premiums
will be spent. Make a conscious choice to be an effective agent in
increasing your health quotient.
For more health advice, contact Dr. Patricia Wales ND & Dr Bunzenmeyer ND
at 403.301.0123
www.ndclinic.com
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