I have been a little busy with Mom the past few days, so have been unable to update this blog. Mom had a feeding tube inserted in her stomach yesterday (Monday) She had a very rough time after the procedure. Today she is doing a little better.
Today I have been fighting Medicare regarding the transportation back to Manistique in the Swing Bed Program. The Social Worker here at Mayo and the lady "downtown" who is in charge of medical transportation told me that Medicare would not pay for an ambulance to another hospital because of various reasons. Well, don't tell a good strong-willed Rushford "no"!!! I told them this was not acceptable, so I did what any techno-grandma would do! I first called Medicare direct, obtained a lot of valuable information, along with a website.
I then went to the Medicare website and spent an hour or two reading. BINGO! I found what I was looking for!! The criteria - in detail-that is necessary in order to have Medicare pay for the ambulance service. I then called the social worker and gave her the address. Hmmmm, she was a little surprised that I had the complete policy--not just the abbreviated version she had given me. So, I convinced her to 1) go to the site, 2) read the policy, 3) print it, 4) give the doctor a copy (because the doctor has to write a detailed letter stating the specific reasons for a medical transfer) and 5) LISTEN.
Now, I'm trying to convince Ron that he needs to take me to Washington D.C. to fight Medicare. YES!!! The 60's/70's again! Protesting!!! Jeanne needs to iron my hair, and Julie, find your bell-bottoms!
OK. Enough. Ron and I are headed to Walmart to buy certain necessities like beer and chips.
Mom is resting better. She cannot have anything by mouth until she can have surgery after she is stronger, because of the fear of her choking and/or aspirating. A swallowing test was done today, and it showed that foods and liquids were not going where they should. But, she is starting to get nourishment through the tube.
More later--must get to Walmart...
Jane/Mom/auntie/whatever...
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3 comments:
I'm glad Uncle Ron is back with you again so you're not there by yourself.
It's crazy how much you have to argue with Medicare--it's not like you're trying to take advantage of the system or anything! Thanks for doing all the research and fighting with those people downtown!!
If you want to practice up for a protest, just come here to Copenhagen. There is usually one about once a week. They're very low-key and usually just involves a walk with some signs. Last night, ironically, they were protesting the taxes as it relates to health care! All residents in CPH get free health care. The catch is the working man is taxed about 70% on what he earns to help cover it. There are pro's and con's to the program.
Well, enough social lessons for today. Tell Grandma we love her and hope she is feeling better.
Love and miss you all,
Dawn and Michael
Good work G'ma! Get some rest! Love, Dominic & Lydia p.s. bell bottoms R Cool
http://www.mayoclinic.org/heritage-days-rst/
Jane & Ron, I found this link, which I believe is at the Mayo Clinic in Minn., while mom is resting, you and Ron might want to check out some of the things they might have going on. HEY MAYBE THERES FREE FOOD or STUFF :) HEE HEE (No there prob. isn't free booze!) Ha, Ha!!
Hope mom can come home Thurs. or Fri., I tried calling back, after you called me yesterday, Jane, but there wasn't an answer on your cell or mom's room. I tried again today, both numbers. But I'll wait to hear from you, I don't want to wake mom, if she's sleeping.
You mentioned mom wanted to talk to me & tell me something, I'm just wondering what it was. She probably wanted to tease me about something, I think I know what.
No matter how mom's feeling she seems to be able to make a joke and have a smile. I'm so greatful to have such a wonderful mom as her and dad too!! They did a wonderful job raising us kids!
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