Health: what really matters?

These days, talking about health has become an imperative. Throughout life, there are times when we worry more or less about this issue, but it's undeniable that the sooner we start taking care of it, the better prepared we'll be to face the challenges of ageing. The truth is that no one escapes the reality that, at some point, health will be a determining factor, and the way we prepare for this can make all the difference. For me, the answer to this question is undoubtedly to consider health insurance. And before you think that this is just another biased opinion, let me explain why. Firstly, taking out health insurance early makes all the difference. When we're young, we don't think about serious illnesses or unexpected health problems. However, you only have to look around you to realise that surprises do happen - and not just to others. What's more, the cost of insurance increases with age, which makes it all the more advantageous to take it out early in life. There's another issue we can't ignore: the limitations imposed by age. As we get older, some insurers begin to restrict or even refuse membership. It's not fair, but it's reality. If we don't act in time, we could be left without a solution when we need it most. And then there's the practical side. What happens if we suddenly face a serious diagnosis or an accident that requires intensive medical care? Consultations, tests, hospitalisations, surgeries - we all know that private healthcare costs are astronomical. Our public network, however necessary and worthwhile it may be, can't always provide an effective response to everyone's needs. And, let's face it, waiting endless hours in the emergency room or dealing with endless waiting lists is not something anyone wants, especially in a critical situation.

The state of public health:

It's impossible to talk about this subject without mentioning the current state of our public health system. The lack of resources, professionals and funding is evident, and we have all felt its effects, directly or indirectly. The pandemic, in particular, has exposed the fragility of this system and the difficulty in responding to large-scale crises. I'm not criticising the professionals - they work miracles with what they have. But the truth is that sometimes we are left unprotected. That's why I believe that health insurance is not a luxury, but a necessity. It may seem like an additional cost in the monthly budget, but I prefer to think of it as security, a support network for when life plays tricks on you. After all, having insurance means being prepared for the unexpected, and that's priceless.

Health as a priority, not an option

When I talk to friends, family or clients, I often say: “I don't mind paying for my health insurance and not using it. It means I'm fine.” But the truth is, the times I've needed it, the insurance has been a blessing. It has saved me hours of waiting in public centres and given me quick access to care that would otherwise have been almost impossible. More than that, having insurance allows me to choose where I want to be treated, who I want to look after me, and gives me the peace of mind of knowing that, even abroad, I have protection. Isn't this what we all want for ourselves and our loved ones? Health is the basis of everything we do - of our projects, dreams and ambitions. However, in everyday life, we end up relegating it to second place, as if it were something we took for granted. But it's not. And when something fails, realising that we don't have a “plan B” can be devastating. Choosing health insurance is more than a financial decision. It's a commitment to ourselves and our loved ones. And I'm not just talking about complex cover or expensive products. Each person has different needs, and the market today offers solutions adapted to all profiles. The important thing is to start, to take this step.