WEEK 18
Staying on Top of Medical and Dental Issues
One of the first things that we’ll likely miss after a total collapse is the relative ease with which we can obtain medical and dental care. Granted, dealing with our current health care system and insurance companies is no picnic, but it still beats the heck out of standing in line for hours on end to see the only medical professional (who might be a registered nurse, not even an MD) available for miles around.
As with anything else, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While few people really enjoy visiting the doctor or the dentist, it’s far better to get a handle on problems or potential issues early on instead of letting them fester and get worse and worse.
I freely admit that I absolutely abhor visiting the doctor and dislike going to the dentist even more. It’s always a hassle, taking time off work and handing over money out of my pocket. But none of us is getting any younger. As we age, it gets more and more important to stay on top of developing health problems.
Your focus this week is to see your doctor and dentist. You probably won’t get an appointment for this coming week, but do what you can to get in soon. Get a complete physical done, including any recommended blood work. Get a dental exam, X-rays, and cleaning if you can swing it.
If you have financial problems that are affecting your ability to get health or dental care, start setting money aside for that purpose.
With luck, you’ll get a clean bill of health. If you don’t, though, immediately start looking into natural remedies for any ailments or issues. Herbal remedies, folk medicine, that sort of thing. Remember, there may come a time when prescription medicines won’t be available. Better to do the research now with all the resources available to you, such as the Internet and public libraries.
It never hurts to speak to your doctor about alternative medical treatments as well. More and more physicians are recognizing the value of these approaches. If your doctor is dead set against anything other than popping pills, it might be time to look for a new medical provider.
WEEK 18 ASSIGNMENTS
TASKS
1. Get in to see your doctor and dentist as soon as possible. Make a list of any issues you’re concerned about and be sure to take the time to discuss them with your medical provider.
2. If your physical condition is less than ideal, consider beginning some sort of exercise routine. There’s no need to spend hours every day on this. Just some simple stretching exercises in the morning will take only about ten minutes and do you a world of good in a short period of time. If you’re able to do so, fifteen to twenty minutes of walking every day will also be beneficial.
SAVINGS
Add $15 to your Prepper Savings Account.
TOTAL PREPPER SAVINGS ACCOUNT: 
WATER STORAGE
One gallon (or two 2-liter bottles) per person or a case of bottled water for the household.
TOTAL WATER STORAGE:
GROCERY LIST
3 cans vegetables, your choice
2 cans fruit, your choice, but stick with those packed in water or juice, rather than syrup
1 can chili or stew, your choice
1 package or jar of gravy
1 box powdered milk
1 lb dry beans, your choice
