Everybody has heard this before: With 30% of Americans now considered obese (BMI > 30), it now costs America $147 billion annually. Obese Medicare patients cost taxpayers an extra $1,723 every year and is rising more rapidly than other medical costs. There has been serious discussion that Medicare premiums be increased for obese patients.
Now, there is debate among financial planners whether it is ethical to NOT discuss this with obese patients, making sure they are aware their annual health care expenses will be $1,429 greater than a non-obese client. Plus, should we advise them they need less retirement savings, since they will not live as long as the actuarial tables suggest?
Speaking for myself, I don't plan to discuss the subject with anybody. First, everybody who is obese already knows all this. Second, I live in a glass house . . .
Now, there is debate among financial planners whether it is ethical to NOT discuss this with obese patients, making sure they are aware their annual health care expenses will be $1,429 greater than a non-obese client. Plus, should we advise them they need less retirement savings, since they will not live as long as the actuarial tables suggest?
Speaking for myself, I don't plan to discuss the subject with anybody. First, everybody who is obese already knows all this. Second, I live in a glass house . . .
