Quote:
Originally Posted by DrVenture
Timely thread. I just had my first colonoscopy, after delaying it for over 15 years. 3 small polyps and need another in 5 years. I had them do an endoscopy at the same time, they assured me they wipe it off first. The scheduling person got a kick out of my asking.
The endoscopy was due to lifelong issues with acid reflux. Turns out there was no smoking gun, so they said just keep taking Omeprazole. Which is a PITA to keep the prescription going, as they want annual pre-authorizations and tend to fight it. Much cheaper than OTC, though. The colonoscopy is usually free of charge, The endoscopy ended up costing 20% - around $850 - so be forewarned on that.
Now I am getting ready for my first pre-op appointment for cataracts. Doing the laser, as the doctor recommended. This one will be expensive. I figure at least $2500 per eye, as they said the insurance will not pay for the laser. And there is a total of 8 office visits, plus the actual surgery: consultation, 2 pre-ops, 2 clearance appts, 2 post-ops and a follow-up visit with my general Opthamalogist. So, another $500 or so in co-pays.
My hope is that 2026 is not as many doctor visits! But, I am pretty sure I have bursitis in at least one shoulder. And something going on with the ball of my right foot, if I walk/stand too much. A lifetime of good health luck is finally catching up to me.
On the dental front, I am golden, as I started having crowns and/or implants 10 years ago to replace old filings and a bridge.I did this knowing that I would no longer have dental insurance when I retired (next year).
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I am also on a 5-year cycle for colonoscopies and endoscopies. Had endoscopy last year. No Barrett’s. GI recommended staying on Omeprazole but said I could try Famotidine (Pepcid). I did but it just doesn’t work nearly as well (heartburn every afternoon no matter what I eat), so back to Omeprazole it is. I also opt for the Rx mainly because I hate the packaging of Prilosec OTC.