High prices at the pump complicate health choices

Physicians increasingly are concerned that high prices for gas and other essentials may leave patients unable to access healthcare: Data from the National Poll on Children's Health released by the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital found that 6% of parents postponed a medical visit or the purchase of medication for their kids in response to the cost of fuel. Early indications also suggest that high gas prices are affecting the ability of some parts of the health system to provide care. The National Association for Home Care & Hospice issued a statement warning that fuel costs were jeopardizing the capability of nurses and other healthcare workers to visit patients, particularly in rural areas.