As we wrap up 2023 and look to 2024, people are planning their New Year’s Resolutions. As a urologist, I encourage you to get started on your health goals as early as possible while keeping your budget in mind. One way to accomplish this is to use the remaining dollars on your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to address the health concerns you have been keeping on the back burner.
FSAs are pre-tax accounts used to pay healthcare or dependent care expenses. Employees are allowed to set aside up to $2,850 in advance annually and can decide how much money to contribute each year to cover their medical costs. Once people have met their deductible or have remaining FSA money, it removes the financial stressors. It allows people to consider procedures that may not be as medically pressing but can still make a big difference in their quality of life.
Conditions such as stress incontinence, erectile dysfunction, vasectomies and overactive bladder are all health concerns that people may put off getting treatment for until they have extra funds available. I always tell my patients that if they’ve met their deductible for the year or have FSA money left to spend, now is the time to start calling to make those appointments.
As a urologist, I want to emphasize the importance of not delaying treatment for these conditions. Postponing treatment can significantly decrease one’s quality of life, leading to embarrassment, anxiety, stress and social isolation. Stress incontinence, in particular, is a condition we often see patients delay seeking treatment for longer than they should.
Stress Incontinence
There are so many things that need to be clarified about handling incontinence. People often think stress incontinence is normal and just a part of life. I’m here to confirm it is not normal, and you shouldn’t have to live with this. One in three people will deal with some form of incontinence, which can cause significant inconveniences to a person’s daily life. People don’t realize the treatment is a 15-minute, non-invasive procedure covered by insurance.
Erectile Dysfunction
Untreated erectile dysfunction strains relationships, causes emotional distance and may signal underlying health problems. It also reduces self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction is a common concern, and we offer a range of effective treatments to address it. Medication therapy is often successful. Non-invasive vacuum erection devices are available for those seeking alternatives. In cases where other treatments prove ineffective, surgical interventions like penile implants are considered.
Vasectomies
Delaying vasectomies can result in unwanted pregnancies, continued reliance on other methods, and missed peace of mind. For individuals considering a vasectomy as a permanent form of birth control, our urology practice provides safe and effective services. We understand the importance of this decision and offer the procedure with utmost care. We provide convenient vasectomies at our Center for Urologic Surgery, and you can expect to go home the same day.
Overactive Bladder
Untreated OAB brings physical, emotional, and social risks: frequent urges to urinate, discomfort, incontinence, emotional distress, withdrawal from social activities, impact on sleep patterns, fatigue, and reduced productivity. Early diagnosis and effective management are vital for regaining control and confidence in daily life. Effective management through dietary changes, bladder retraining, medications, and advanced therapies like Botox and nerve stimulation can restore control and comfort in everyday life.
Leveraging FSA funds for essential health needs like urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, overactive bladder, and vasectomies can make your holiday season feel more like a celebration instead of an obligation. At USL, we’re committed to your urological health and are here to support you every step of the way. Prioritize your health, explore available treatments, and consult a professional for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
