Jane Brody’s Personal Health Column in the NY Times Tuesday points out some interesting facts about angioplasties and stent placement in asymptomatic patients. It seems that this procedure is not known to prevent heart attacks or decrease mortality in the abseence of symptoms, but we spend $60 billion a year doing them. It is a money maker and is covered by health insurance. “More Isn’t Always Better in Coronary Care”
It seems to me that there are many ways to save health care dollars without compromising good health and this is a good example. Stress management in this population would be a good place to start.
