Training Blog

According to Action for Blind People more people could end up going blind as they avoid getting their eyes tested. This is because the majority of people have to pay to get their eyes tested so when money becomes tight people are reluctant to pay for things like that instead they focus on ensuring that they keep up with the payment of bills and mortgages instead. Other things that have seen a decline is people taking time off work to have treatments such as those to remove cataracts; it is assumed that the reason for this is that during times when businesses are making cut backs of staff people are becoming scared to take time off for whatever reason as they feel that when deciding who to “get rid of” any time off will count against them.

Dental care has also seen a decline in the number of people getting regular check ups and then the subsequent treatment that may follow. It would seem that treatments that are not deemed to be essential are being ignored by people as they worry about the cost and the issues previously mentioned about having time off.

The number of people purchasing condoms has declined as people are trying to save money which is ultimately resulting in more people putting themselves at risk. One particular clinic noted an increase on the number of patients presenting at the clinic with severe cases of various STIs as people aren’t taking precautions and then ignore the problem until it becomes a severe problem.
It may be worth reminding people that condoms are free from family planning clinics and your GP. Also if you end up pregnant as a result of not using a condom it will ultimately cost you more and may go against you when employers are making staff cut backs.

In summary whilst I can appreciate that money is tight at the moment the cost of the basic check ups and contraceptives it is worth it because it detects problems earlier on therefore means less time off work and treatment may be cheaper and to some extent cheaper.