Healthcare Crisis in the Philippines/An Expats Medical Nightmare

[@brent2438]

That's a scary deal. Wake up one day and end up paralyzed. Kudos to Juells for his perseverance.👍

[@RetireandGo]

This story really woke me up to check on my travel insurance What it covers Also to think about how I would handle this

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @brent2438 Thanks, I feel for him!

[@jimbo3609]

You are doing a great community service by sharing your story. So glad Julian is recovering well. It was always a great concern for me with unknown diseases that might strike us as we grow older. Thank you, Paul

[@hansreynders6853]

​@@roswoIt would help for you to listen again to the video. You don't even have to go far in.

[@tryscience]

​@@roswotake precautions to avoid COVID-19 infection. According to Research in PubMedCentral, "...Patients with COVID‐19 can present neurological symptoms due to either viral neurological damage or indirect neuroinflammatory and autoimmune processes. 8 Also, patients have prolonged neurological complications following COVID‐19, known as long COVID complications. 9 Guillain−Barré syndrome (GBS), bell's palsy, and hemorrhagic stroke after COVID‐19 and vaccination have been reported among their complications. 10 , 11..." You can Google the following paper for details. COVID‐19 as a trigger of Guillain‐Barré syndrome: A review of the molecular mechanism Mahdi Malekpour, 1 , 2 Shaghayegh Khanmohammadi, 3 , 4 Mohammad Javad Entezari Meybodi, 1 , 2 Dorsa Shekouh, 1 Mohammad Reza Rahmanian, 1 , 2 Sina Kardeh, 5 and Negar Azarpiracorresponding author 2

[@salomejoyce4731]

Mosquito bite is one of a common cause also to keep that in mind so all can aware...

[@steveharris7116]

@@roswo there is no one specific cause for this, so it is kind of hard to prevent. What is important here is what this looks like and what he did to recover from this.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jimbo3609 Thanks for your kind words! We're just trying to share our experience and help others avoid similar struggles.

[@TomiBonTomi_2.0]

Thanks God Juells you're back on your feet again! I wish you a full and speedy recovery!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thank you!

[@richsadventures1889]

Man, that would scare the shit out of anyone. Very fortunate you guys have a pretty tight group who help each other out.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @richsadventures1889 Thanks for watching! We're grateful to have a supportive community here in Dumaguete.

[@billb945]

I had a co-worker who developed GBS in 76/77 after a swine flu shot. He never got out of a wheel chair but still had his arms. and upper torso. I think he was 30 at the time.

[@ningayeti]

GBS has been around for hundreds of years. It is possible that a vaccine was implicated, but we can never know. People in third world countries who have never had a single vaccine in their entire lives get GBS also. @@FilipinoFarmer1

[@Barefootape]

​@@FilipinoFarmer1well reported the illness wipeouts from simple disease before vaccinations. Whole civilizations died. 4 out of 5 deaths in the civil war were from disease, not battle. And vaccinations did not exist!

[@motorheadforlife9431]

​@@roswo- I don't recall my late Dad telling us in his later years about that Swine Flu shot and the outbreak of GBS cases when he was still in the Navy at that time. Sounds scary.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @billb945 Sorry to hear that, hope your friend is doing okay despite the challenges.

[@erf1971]

Good to see you kicking again brother. True friends are priceless!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Yes they are!

[@user-sh8nz5sm5j]

I’m so glad I found this video. I saw your video earlier when this happened to you. I’m married to a Filipina for 19 yrs, we moved Philippines 1 and 1/2 yrs ago for our retirement so my wife could spend time with her family. I had a stroke after only 10 months, we have fought long & hard I’m still trying to recover. Im trying to go back to Georgia USA as soon as I’m strong enough because I’m scared of dying here😢😢

[@kimmelsadventures]

What’s wrong with dying there. What kind of a diet do u have my goodness. The food is way better. Just don’t eat sugar, rice, potatos and pasta and should be good to go. There is a cure for cancer it’s called quit eating sugar. God bless

[@user-sh8nz5sm5j]

@@kimmelsadventures I don’t think my diet caused me to have 2 strokes within an hour or so. I had 5 (five) blood clots at once.

[@alaskanwhiskey]

​@@user-sh8nz5sm5jjabbed?

[@marianeil6630]

See your MD, for changes of lifestyle, smoking, loose weight, exercise, diet, eating red meat, Goodluck

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-sh8nz5sm5j Thank you for sharing your personal experience. Sorry to hear about your stroke and struggles with recovery. Wishing you a smooth return to the US when the time is right.

[@jimbo8888]

Oh man, that would scare the crap out of anyone. So good to see him up and walking again. Wow!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jimbo8888 Thanks for watching! Glad he's on the mend now.

[@surfwaves8636]

I've said this many times: If you have a serious medical condition, jump on a plane ASAP and go to either Bangkok (Bumrungrad International) or Guam (Guam Memorial). Both hospitals are great and only several hours flight time from Manila.

[@simplelifeme2741]

Why not Taiwan, Singapore and Japan that is very near to the Philippines?

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @surfwaves8636 Thanks for the advice! We've had good experiences with Bumrungrad too.

[@jerrymarshall2728]

I saw Julian on another ex-pat’s channel, yesterday, when he was showing his house. What a relief to see him upright and walking around! 🙏 Thanks for doing a video with him, Paul 👍 I guess I should subscribe to Juells In The Philippines? I love this man’s positive spirit! 👍

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jerrymarshall2728 Glad you're relieved to see Julian recovering well! Yeah, subscribe to Juells' channel, it's great content!

[@mick-berry5331]

Wonderful to see him upright again, and still getting stronger everyday. All th best! Awesome positive attitude. 15k is still serious money. I wonder how many Filipinos couldn't afford it. Reminds you to make sure you're covered.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @mick-berry5331 Thanks for the positivity! We're grateful for his progress too. Indeed, accessibility to quality healthcare is a concern here.

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Julian awesome job and way to stay on top of it. You are the man. Congratulations on your recovery and keep it going.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @Joe-mz6dc Thanks for the kind words, Julian! Appreciate the support.

[@renaldonormani6646]

Excellent you are back on the road to recovery Jules!. My cousin died from GBS 45 years ago and you are so lucky to get an (Relatively Early) diagnosis. No one even heard of it back then. Turns out…..undercooked chicken was the cause. Don’t eat undercooked chicken! You are so lucky man . She died in 10 days;-( And Don’t put off going to the hospital! That alone could have killed you. All my love to you and Kudos to Paul and everyone that kept you from expiring…. Cherish every minute of every day!-)

[@gaylegoeschel9850]

I love Juells story, and I say thank God for his recovery . I pray he just keeps getting better and better for him, his family, and his friends. Great video, Paul! 😊

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @gaylegoeschel9850 Thanks for watching and wishing Juells well! Means a lot to me too.

[@gravy9587]

I've been recently going thru a health issue here in the Philippines similar in many ways to Julian. I was recently diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. It started about three months ago. I was having joint pain throughout my body which progressively has gotten worse to the point that I could hardly function. Along with extreme pain and fatigue. I recently started taking medication which has helped but I have a long way to go. I have lost a lot of muscle mass and am in the worst shape of my adult life. I have been going thru a lot of the same mental gymnastics as Julian without the terror of being paralyzed. I can totally relate to what your goin thru Julian and pray we both see a full recovery. Thank god for my Filipina I don't know what I would do without her.

[@remyLY2020]

Search Keto diet.Suppose to help RA.

[@alecks6991]

Unfortunately ,there is no cure for RA,just meds to alleviate symptoms.Keep yourself limber though as much as you could tolerate.hang in there!

[@Dean-b2f]

Get a second and third opinion, along w/lab work. Chronic conditions are frequently MISDIAGNOSED all over the world ! Even the Mayo Clinic does not get it right every time. Best wishes. PMA ! God bless your Filipina.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @gravy9587 Thanks for sharing your story, hope you continue to get relief from medication! We're rooting for a full recovery too.

[@ericsolkamans-kj2fd]

Be well Juells. Kindly Greetings Health, Wealth, Love, Peace and Happiness....

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @ericsolkamans-kj2fd Thanks for the good vibes!

[@georgetinant9486]

good news -- Wow , what a story !!! Thanks for helping Juells out there Paul !!! your a good man !!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @georgetinant9486 Thanks for the kind words! We're just trying to help where we can.

[@caryrevels6584]

I can only imagine the horror of waking up and cannot move a muscle. That must have been sheer terror. I'm so happy for you God was in your corner.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @caryrevels6584 Thank you, we're grateful for the support. It's not something I care to repeat!

[@fredamagdayodahan-taer2730]

Amazing! Thank you Lord you are up and feeling better Juells. Ive watched your video on your channel and saw you emotional but hopeful with perseverance and this video is such a refreshing to watch, full of good news! I hope for a 💯% full recovery!! Thanks Paul for having him for his health update! God bless you both and Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @fredamagdayodahan-taer2730 Thanks for the kind words and wishes! We appreciate your support.

[@nottelling620]

Hi PAUL , This is such a touching video TY . I may have commented this here but it s great to have REAL friends there and incredible to find true friends here in the USA. We are going into THANKSGIVING here in USA , I am sure this gentleman is thankful to you PAUL and all that helped him in his road to recovery... HAPPY THANKSGIVING and GOD BLESS to all CIAO

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @nottelling620 Thanks for your kind words! We're grateful for our friends in the Philippines. Happy Thanksgiving!

[@biff9999]

I was misdiagnosed in the Philippines - twice in nine years. Once in Manila, once in Tacloban. And both things they missed were serious health problems. I didn't wait; I knew something bad was going on, got on a plane, went back to the States, dragged myself to a hospital, got a correct diagnosis each time, and then years of treatment. Be careful regarding Filipino healthcare.

[@2000ViperGTSsubscribe]

Youa re being kind-it's a total joke there medically. Walked out of Cebu hospital in July 2023 for very poor healthcare (foreign object in my foot) in the ER. When I see the videos of PH healthcare being good, I laugh as those same people might think I am a super model.

[@AForeignerAskingQuestions]

I’ve always had a great experience with the Filipino healthcare system. Can’t say the same for the US healthcare system though which can bankrupt you unless you’re old enough to be on government healthcare.

[@biff9999]

@@AForeignerAskingQuestions Well, it did bankrupt me. Destroyed my finances completely. But, I'm alive, and now back to good health, so that's a plus. But, yeah, it broke me financially. That is the completely messed-up part of the U.S. healthcare system. It really sucks. It's perverse. I'll say this - nothing wrong with Filipino healthcare for the basics, the easy stuff. Nothing wrong with it at all. Break your arm, someone needs to monitor your diabetes, normal childbirth, all those things can be taken care of in the Philippines correctly with a minimum of fuss and at low cost, di ba? But, something chronic that will require years of precise, targeted treatment, something that requires superb diagnostic skills and expensive, complicated technology, well, maybe the Philippines is not the right place for that. Just thinking out loud here.

[@mikestout9588]

We're all bankrupt

[@2000ViperGTSsubscribe]

@@AForeignerAskingQuestions Any serious issue can be fatal in PH due to incompetency, lack of training and or inadequate equipment. I can certainly concede that US healthcare is expensive, it is the go to place for around the world for life saving procedures and at a rate that can be viewed as excessive. That said, between the two, if you were in trouble where would one want to be? A cold, sure PH get a script and so cheap. However if you have underlying issues or trauma, you are in big trouble in PH. I do animal rescue on dogs and cats in PH and fund a few organizations and do work personally there and even the vets are poorly trained. Failing to redo CBC testing on an animal with a serious life threatening infection to see if the antibiotic is working for example to see RBC/WBC et cetera. Even had a dog treated for mange as he was barely alive instead of stabilizing the dog and killed him. Had a person in Moalboal go via ambulance needing oxygen to Cebu City, no oxygen in the ambulance. Another, my x-girlfriend's sister in Moalboal, breathing issue, tested for COVID 3 times, not COVID. she was 27, no MRI, CT Scan done. They gave her a sleeping pill with obvious breathing problems, she died. I can cite my own experience after being fast boated from Bohol to Cebu Doctors hospital, and I hear it over and over from expats. Sure Makati NCR private hospitals are much better than others in PH, but lightyears behind. I've evne been given fake medicine by a doctor myself there and I had a different doctor in Cebu lie to me and say he got his MD in US, but on his LinkedIn page which I looked at prior to going, he was not-it was a clear lie. I've been in hospitals in different continents, I give PH a 1 on a 1-5 scale in healthcare with equivocation. I call it like it is, been to 25 countries, I think all are on my KZbin channel and extensive time in PH as I was actively helping animals until late this year.

[@stuartloggins3691]

That's great. I've got something going on they can't find too. Good luck. Get well soon.

[@yoyojoe9240]

Hey neighbors..!! If "it" does not kills Us.....makes Us stronger..!! God Speed..! Be good..!

[@garyxyz4400]

Good to see Juells is back to himself. You are a good friend and very helpful to Juells recovery. Also nice to see such a positive and happy outlook on life. How old is he?

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

52

[@kathiemathias212]

He’s got good attitude and a real survivor. Happy for him his health is on the uphill.

[@ningayeti]

I am a retired R.N. and have had probably 12-15 GBS patients in 32 years of practice. The IV med he got was most likely the blood derivative IVIG. In the U.S. he would also have been given high dose steroids and probably 3-5 courses of plasma pheresis. Of course things are different in the PH.

[@AForeignerAskingQuestions]

Things are more affordable in PH.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @ningayeti Thanks for sharing your expertise, appreciate your insights!

[@jerrypauling7809]

Glad he's coming back,God Bless.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jerrypauling7809 Thank you for your kind wishes!

[@purplesprigs]

I'll probably get blocked for this, but: To say, "I was paralyzed from the neck down, so I went to the doctor." is absurd. Then, "We gave it five weeks to see if it would get better," is more so. It reminded me of the Monty Python: "She turned me into a newt!" "A newt?" "Well I got better." And I am speaking as someone who suffered a CATASTROPHIC spine injury and is very lucky (after multiple surgeries) to have any use of his arms and legs.

[@JonBestSpiritualCoachonEarth]

Newt

[@Dean-b2f]

There IS a lot of pecular/funny shit here . . . I woiuldn't be caught dead wearing ANY INSIGNIA of an elite unit. But many do . . . Even some who clearly should know better.@@arnoldjohnson3317

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @purplesprigs Thanks for sharing your personal experience! We understand the frustrations with healthcare in the Philippines.

[@tomhunter2623]

Juells happy you are doing so well. Paul Juells is lucky he has a friend like you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @tomhunter2623 Thanks, Juells! We're grateful for your support too.

[@carefulconsumer8682]

GBS is not uncommon after you get a vaxxine for some reason. I know three people who got it after the normal flu vaxxine. All three recovered 95% to 100% in 6-12 months but it was scary for them.

[@bradleymiller7375]

U just answer my question, I will not be getting any vaccine! Thanks for another great video to open our eyes!

[@dsmith4140]

Shhhh move on, nothing here

[@bradleymiller7375]

@@dsmith4140 except this Ahole!

[@alaskanwhiskey]

Yep! I've been in the PH in Manila for 11 months now and never been sick from food. I think it was the jab 100 percent. Most people here in Mexico are dropping like flies from that stuff. I hear ambulances everyday non stop now. I leave for manila Monday.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @carefulconsumer8682 Thanks, sorry to hear that! We've had our own scares with healthcare issues here.

[@terryintheislands-wr2yq]

He is lucky to have a support system with family and friends. If he was alone it would probably be not a happy story.

[@napoleonmdusa8877]

This is what I worry about. If this had been me, the landlord would have found me dead when they came by to collect the rent.

[@simplelifeme2741]

​@@napoleonmdusa8877Attend to a church and be an active member. Make a connection with the church members. When they noticed you're not present during services they start wondering why and they are going to call, text message or visit you. If you have problem and need help call them. If you need urgent emergency i believe your neighbors will help you if you call their attentions. Don't be ashame to shout and ask for help. The only problem is if you are living in a house that has a distance from your neighbors that no body can hear you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @terryintheislands-wr2yq Lucky to have you both, that's for sure!

[@midlifewanderings]

Glad that you are up and about now Julian. We are seven months out from when we come back to the Philippines to retire and I think about the what ifs once we get there. I do think about the things that could go wrong to my husband, surprisingly I'm not worried about me though. We're both healthy, no medications (not even Tylenol) but one still think about these issues once in the Philippines specially if you live in the province. Thanks for sharing, Paul.

[@AForeignerAskingQuestions]

To me there are more “what ifs” in the US

[@midlifewanderings]

@@AForeignerAskingQuestionsI totally agree with you. US is not what it used to be and we can't wait to get out of here.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @midlifewanderings Thanks for your understanding! We'll be facing similar concerns when we return to Dumaguete. Wish us luck!

[@michaelcassidy1864]

Horrifying but much needed story. This confirms yet again the absolute need for having a good health insurance plan.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @michaelcassidy1864 Thanks for your support! We're glad to raise awareness on this important issue.

[@quietflight7092]

Your best interview, Paul. What a blessing.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @quietflight7092 Thank you! We're glad to share our experience.

[@garrymiller2769]

Its not a matter of if something goes wrong. Just when. And you cannot fully prepare. That's life.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @garrymiller2769 Couldn't agree more, it's all about being prepared for the unexpected!

[@tryscience]

I can totally relate to what Paul was saying about walking through fire. Years ago when many tough situations hit me at the same time, my dad said that I was a product of life's forge - hammered on all sides. But it did make me much tougher

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @tryscience Well said! Life's experiences do shape us up indeed.

[@AnthonyCataldo-b2q]

Shattered the bone in my right leg 27 years ago from a bad landing on my 8th skydive and, at the age of 40, 6 weeks with no weight on leg meant 5 years to recover from muscle atrophy. 4 spiral breaks and a rod, but really like it never happened. 1 year if 20, add 1 year for every 5 years past 20. You WILL recover.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-di8yk3bu6u Thanks for sharing your story! We're glad you recovered well from your accident.

[@tryscience]

Very happy to see Julian is walking again!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @tryscience Thank you for your kind words, it's amazing to see him recover well!

[@rickylee6129]

Good Video/Interview Paul 😊. That would be very scary 😨. Julian looks like he is doing a lot better 😀. Godspeed for Julian, AMEN 🙏. Beautiful house, Should have Baby Mae show this house in one of her video's and give it her #1 Approval 😊. Keep the video's comin. Stay Safe 💕 💞 🙏 🙏...

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @rickylee6129 Thanks for the support! Glad to hear Julian's doing better. We'll keep sharing our experiences here.

[@andrewkamchi7478]

This could happen at any time and to anyone. Imagine what it would have been like if he was in that long term care facility that your guest Chris has been talking about over at The Heights Above Santander. He would have gotten onsite and immediate help that transitioned into the care he needed to recover, all within a beautiful setting. Tales like this make signing up for a care contract even more appealing, at least to me. Thanks for keeping the story alive Paul.

[@Dean-b2f]

Buyer BEWARE ! Exercise due diligence before signing anything ! I don't want to watch a vid about an expat who got swindled buying into a facility/health care program that does not exist in physical realiity !

[@andrewkamchi7478]

@@Dean-b2f Buyer BEWARE what? Who is selling something here? If the facility existed and Juels was in there, then what are you talking about? This is the reactionary silliness that plagues the online forums. No wonder why KZbinrs and people of that ilk shelter themselves from any idiot who has a lot to say from behind their keyboard. As George RR Martin has said many times, the internet has empowered a lot of arseholes. So to that Mr chocolate starfish, I say thank you for your response.

[@ReadySetGo113]

Awesome to see him strutting his stuff - well done.

[@henryreinders3031]

I would agree, I don't think things could get much scarier than something like this. Good to see Juells is doing so well.

[@AidaJof]

Blessings to Julian in his recovery, thank God he is in a good place mentally. But it must have been very scary finding yourself that you cannot move; frankly I have never heard that food borne bacteria could do that. Thank goodness he is on way to regaining his health. Best wishes

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @AidaJof Thank you for your kind words and best wishes! We're glad Julian's recovery is underway.

[@ccorti]

Health care is abysmal in the Philippines, regardless of the city. It nullifies the prospect of retiring there

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @ccorti We understand concerns about healthcare, but we're making it work here. Thanks for sharing your perspective.

[@stevenwistort9903]

Give all credit to the Lord. It's his grace.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @stevenwistort9903 Amen to that!

[@wyliecelt]

I just clicked as to who Jules reminds me of... He looks just like Tony Iomi of black Sabbath. Cheers Colin the Kiwi.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @wyliecelt Cheers, Colin! That's a great observation!

[@donniemorris9959]

Keep him in our prayers, good to see him in good spirits with a great future

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @donniemorris9959 Thanks for your kind thoughts! We're glad to see him on the mend too.

[@edic2619]

Geat to see you up and walking, wishing you well.

[@gailmaplesden7380]

I brought this up before and I thought I would plant the seed again about putting an EMT on the ambulance service for the purpose of stabilizing patients before transport. Many people pass away in the ambulance before even getting to the hospital. This could save lives and actually be used as a portable doctor for people who can't travel or are in in- home hospice care for medicine and checking vitals . This is simple in the western world and shouldn't be difficult to arrange a business model connected to phil-health or insurance companies for reasonable health care.

[@Dean-b2f]

Feel free to go to the P.I. and investe as much $$ as you want in order to make this happen . . . . .

[@harryzacklaw1910]

Wont happen

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @gailmaplesden7380 Thanks for sharing your idea! We agree that stabilizing patients before transport could save lives. It's a great concept to consider implementing.

[@tedrick4713]

Words of wisdom. Thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @tedrick4713 Appreciate your kind words!

[@shawn2380]

Did you get a new camera? The video clarity is pristine almost never do I see that from the videos coming from PH.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @shawn2380 Thanks! We actually did upgrade our camera equipment recently, and it's made a big difference in our video quality.

[@gregorypeter9719]

God is good. 🙏👍

[@saulgoodman7221]

Glad to see you up and about Julian. Hey Paul !

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @saulgoodman7221 Thanks for the well wishes, friend! We're doing okay after a tough medical experience.

[@jackbear4528]

What a blessing...sending prayers 🙏

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @jackbear4528 Thank you, we appreciate your kind thoughts!

[@ivoted7199]

Good lord. I never heard of this kind of thing… bacterial paralysis??

[@juanmoy4780]

Julian, you are correct when you said someone is looking after you: 1. God answers prayers 2. A Filipina wife and her families 3. A best dependable friends like Paul, etc who are in the same town willing to make themselves available in ni time 4. And a bonus of it all is money availability that buys the services of hospital, PT, home care nurse, etc. I’m a retired RN Critical Nurse. In the US there are bad, good, smart and caring doctors. What you want is a caring doctor. I was hospitalized in 2021 for 14 days and nearly kick the bucket. My final bills was $1.4 million dollars. Yep, million with an M. Medicare pays 80% supplemental insurance now that’s another chicken caboodle. Good to see you walking again 👍🙏👍

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @juanmoy4780 Thank you, Julian! We're grateful for all the support and care we've received here in Dumaguete.

[@davidevans474]

Good to see you’re up and moving around you come a long way .

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @davidevans474 Thanks for the encouragement! We're grateful for every step forward.

[@mikesimpson9997]

Thank god he had money . If he didn’t we would be seeing a whole others story. Health insurance looks better and better . Older we get the more we will need it

[@johnk3606]

I think that’s key here and no one wants to address is. If you move to a less developed nation and are relying on 2 or 3 thousand a month, getting sick can be deadly.

[@mikesimpson9997]

@@johnk3606 true . Always have a plan for bad things happening is best

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @mikesimpson9997 Thanks for sharing, health insurance is indeed crucial here!

[@The_Drifter_13]

Wow, that has to have been terrifying.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @The_Drifter_13 Terrifying doesn't even begin to describe it. Thanks for watching and sharing our experience!

[@gibblespascack1418]

There are times when you need a professional. This was one of them. If you are in the Philippines, take this stuff seriously because you never know what you will run into. This is always the thought that I have when on a project outside the US. You just never know what you will run into when hiking through a rain forest.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @gibblespascack1418 Well said! A healthy dose of caution can go a long way here. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@stanleykyle]

Healthcare.. Health Insurance. Here in Thailand Healthcare is ranked 7th in the world. There are 2 high class Hospitals here in Pattaya. Health Insurance $1,500 a year for my age, 52. Health care ranking in the Philippines 40th in the world. and USA 37th. I am glad you made it through this situation and are on the mend. I spent 9 years in Iraq and Afghanistan in the military, I have lived in the Philippines as well. Now at my age or anyone older, I would not recommend being far away from a good hospital, St. Lukes in Makati is one they have there. Best to be thinking ahead like you say, and carry good health insurance, have money in the bank built up.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @stanleykyle Thanks for sharing your experience with healthcare in Thailand! We're glad we made it through our medical crisis too.

[@MoralHazard-g1e]

Why did he waste five weeks with faith healers? His recovery would have been much quicker if he went to a professional, first. Second, when they went to the hospital, they should have checked in with the emergency room if you do not have a prior relationship with the hospital/doctor. Trying to self diagnose beforehand that only a PT was needed without knowing the cause or a consultation was not wise. The same rules apply in the Philippines as they do in the US. The only difference is that a private PH hospital should be visited first if you have financial means. Given the choices made, he would have had the same outcome, regardless of the country.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-vq8yk1wc1u We understand the frustration with the healthcare system here. It's crucial to prioritize seeking professional medical help from the start.

[@davea3329]

Great recovery story. So many lessons and takeaways from such a challenge . Thanks for sharing 🙏

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jspice-kl2wc]

Thank for sharing such an amazing story with us. That makes for a super great video.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Our pleasure!

[@richarddicola3579]

Best wishes!!! All the best...Juells sounds identical to Joe Namath

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @richarddicola3579 Thanks, Juells! Wishing you all the best too!

[@krisa990]

Im a person that fairly easily gets infections,I would probably get seriously sick within a year in a tropical environment like the Phillipines,so many bacterial diseases you can get there and siminalar tropic environments,things we outside hardly ever heard of,like this one that this poor guy got..You need to check out for dirty water,bacteria in the foods,adapt to the stomach bacterias to the local population,as outsiders,we dont have their life long adaptation and thereby,protection,to various diseases..a pack of diseases thats spread by insects and other animals as well.To stay a few weeks is one thing,a year or more another.

[@AForeignerAskingQuestions]

Personally, I always got sicker in the US.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @krisa990 Thanks for sharing your concerns. We've had similar experiences with infections here in the Philippines. Staying healthy takes extra effort.

[@CornellSandifer]

I thought it might have been an insect bite of some kind when you did the first video Paul, there are some real nasty insects out there that will rock your world if they bite you. Glad to see he has made a recovery; how much was the hospital bill?

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

15k usd

[@johnmartin7158]

Interesting subject this. I recall returning to NZ from Manila and experienced breathing problems for about 3-4 months. Kinda weird, but it did go away completely. I suppose these things can happen in any country Another time I had severe humidity rashes, but luckily my wife knew a Doctor from her university days and I subsequently got some drugs from Mercury Pharmacy at minimal costs. Stay safe please. Health is wealth. Cheers NZ.

[@derekhorsburgh6238]

Hey Paul, great to see Matthew McConaughey 😆 back on the channel. Super nice guy and hat's off to him and all who supported him through his illness. Great interview 👍👍

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @derekhorsburgh6238 Thanks for the kind words! We're glad you enjoyed the episode with Matthew.

[@MontyCrew-h5s]

I’m so happy for his progress 😮

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @user-eo7kl4de3g Thanks! We're thrilled with his progress as well!

[@Lpmeff]

Great story god bless and your right never give up

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @Lpmeff Thanks for watching, appreciate your support!

[@stanleyboothe4893]

Looking good Jules, Rock on ✌

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @stanleyboothe4893 Thanks for watching!

[@michaelbelnap6112]

Wow, after spending many different moments with you and many other bloggers over the last year, it is hard to see you in such a difficult situation. I do wish you the best Juliann, Hopefully you’ll be more kind in the future.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Wow, thank you!

[@AgrippaMaxentius]

He not only looks like but sounds like Matthew, guy could be a body double.

[@screamdreamer]

ALRIGHT ALRIGHT ALRIGHT

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @AgrippaMaxentius Thanks for the comparison!

[@screamdreamer]

LOVE THE VIDEO PAUL ...YOU ARE TRULY THE GODFATHER

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @screamdreamer Thanks, appreciate your support!

[@altonarm]

Health is always the one thing to be grateful for every morning! ❤

[@oliviagriffin2385]

Very inspirational vlog, thank you Paul!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @oliviagriffin2385 Thank you so much!

[@niko314]

Lol exactly how I described Juells to my hubby. It’s Matthew Mconaughey 😁

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @niko314 Thanks, Matthew! We're not surprised by the similarities!

[@sallyanngetzen4195]

wow!! thanks for sharing!!! Amen.....besos.... jueles xoxoxoxo

[@screamdreamer]

Many thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @sallyanngetzen4195 Thanks for watching and understanding our experience!

[@lindawilson795]

Thanks for being a true friend to Juelles.💎

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @lindawilson795 Appreciate your kind words, thank you!

[@Manila-sb3sn]

It seems like you’re in good spirit. Glad that you overcome your health.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @Manila-sb3sn Thanks for your kind words! We're grateful to have received great medical care here in Dumaguete.

[@robertputt7794]

Paul, when you get a chance... Read Job 36:5-12... Remember, 7-12 is talking about the RIGHTEOUS only... Not the lost man, but the righteous... And thank you for sharing this... ❤🙏

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @robertputt7794 Thank you for the reminder and scriptures. Appreciate your perspective.

[@Ian-iu2tl]

My step-dad suffred this. he was down in his man-cave and stried to get upnthe stairs and thought he was having a stroke. He did not fully recover as his took a few years with some muscle wasting. Later, he got cancer and died.

[@martinsmith6971]

A very inspiring video overcoming adversity with persistence and hope Wise advice to extra money for medical emergencies. G-D was with this man a lesson for us all Marty

[@NICKLEBACK991]

Curious about the Trident T?

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @NICKLEBACK991 It's a local taxi service, actually! We've used it a few times and it's been convenient.

[@mikeheyjoebuenavistadreamin272]

glad to see a scary situation is getting better each day .i can tell you arent a quitter , will bust your chops again about the healer thing but it's not my life . if your wang is working still its all good .

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @mikeheyjoebuenavistadreamin272 Thanks for the support! We're grateful to see progress too.

[@RacerX1971]

Thats horibble...thats one reason why i dont think i wont retire in the PI, the affordability is tempting but the healthcare sucks..

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @RacerX1971 We understand your concern. We've experienced similar issues with our own healthcare experiences here.

[@kevingamblesonlife9999]

Yes! Good news. 🙏🙏🙏

[@videograffy]

Great story, motivational, thanks

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Thanks for listening

[@locker1325]

Could you talk about the healthcare in the PI. Also the costs involved in Jules care. Edit: you addressed this. I think you got a good deal. 15k. I'll bet 100k in the states. And that's conservative.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @locker1325 Appreciate your feedback! We're fortunate to have found a suitable solution for Jules' medical needs at a reasonable cost. Thanks for watching!

[@locker1325]

Great to hear

[@Zulethe992]

This is definitely the scariest part of retiring in the Philippines. Imagine what would happen if you ran into an emergency like this and were by yourself in the provinces with no one to help you. You’d most certainly die. The emphasis on having a support system and being near quality medical facilities can’t be overstated. I just wonder how many foreigners die every year because they don’t have a support system or when they do find a facility to treat them “nobody is available” Or worse yet they don’t have the funds for treatment.

[@eugeniasyro5774]

Sub par medical treatment in a major city. Much worse in the province. The Philippines is no paradise. Even if you have money.

[@Dean-b2f]

Having lived and worked there, P.I. IS the closest thing to paradise on this earth. I have to die someplace . . . But I LIVE more each day in P.I. than I could anywhere on this planet !@@eugeniasyro5774

[@AForeignerAskingQuestions]

That’s one way of looking at it. The other way of looking at it is this. If you don’t have health insurance in the US you can be bankrupted by the US healthcare system. Here in the Philippines I don’t need health insurance because healthcare is affordable for me here without insurance. A doctor visit is just 500 pesos ($10). In the US you’ll pay $100 or more without health insurance just for the doctor visit. Then, it’s all urgent cares in the US that are designed 100% for pure profit. When I was a kid family doctors was still common. So for me, I choose the Filipino healthcare system ALL DAY EVERYDAY instead of giving all my money away to the doctors and hospitals in the US 👍🏻

[@rosarogers8193]

i used to be a nurse in the Philippines i still don’t trust healthcare over there regardless if you have insurance, its still expensive and you don’t get proper care if you don’t have money to put for down payment and regardless with insurance you still have to pay first and reimbursement later, I’ll never retire there…

[@rosarogers8193]

@@AForeignerAskingQuestions at least in the US you can go to the emergency room and taken care of, they can’t refuse or deny your care regardless if you don’t put a down payment, its the LAW, the Philippine hospital can deny and refuse your care anytime specially if you don’t have money to put a down payment, for people in the Philippines that don’t have the means to pay end up pawning their property or borrowing money with an exuberant interest “ lawn shark” . I work in the Philippines as nurse before and I worked in the US as an RN also, big difference, i Know how it is in the Philippines. My cousin who lives in the Philippines, his daughter is a doctor here in the US, end up having heart bypass, the bill was 2million PHP, all is cash, we have to contribute here in the US in order to get operated, he had Phil health but not enough to cover the bill, AND another thing the Philippine hospital will not discharge you until you settle the balance.

[@davidhosking436]

Glad you are feeling better

[@johncarroll1109]

Is this guy a Navy seal??? Glad to hear he is recovering..mighty big trident on that shirt...

[@godfreyvonnordeck2056]

Great to see this recovery

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @godfreyvonnordeck2056 Thanks for sharing! Glad you saw my progress.

[@edic2619]

It is OK to go to the emergency room if you can not find a Dr. I am in CA. Everytime I have had to go the hospital emergency room there would always be at least 20, mostly new migrants, waiting in the loby to see DR. Most were using the emeregency room for common flu illnesses wasting DRs valuable time. So, if you need a Dr, wait around for the emergency room drs to help.

[@stoicfreediver]

What was the likely food source of this? Any preventative measures we can take?

[@AidaJof]

That same question came to my head ... where is it found, poorly washed vegetables, meats, fish, cooking methods???

[@bradleymiller7375]

​@AidaJof I thought vaccine was mentioned!

[@alaskanwhiskey]

​@@bradleymiller7375yep! Was thinking the same thing!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @stoicfreediver We suspect it's contaminated water or undercooked meat. Drink bottled water, cook food thoroughly to minimize risks.

[@stoicfreediver]

@@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234 Thanks you for your response 🙏 Hindsight into foresight 👍

[@LivingTheLifeRetired]

That’s why it’s so important that as we age that we maintain muscle mass through resistance training.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @LivingTheLifeRetired Thanks for the insight! We're focusing on health issues here, but you make a great point about overall wellness.

[@italogiardina8183]

Navigating the health care sector in any country can be a challenge given the difference between the primary care (GP) and secondary care (specialists) interface can leave patient really disorientate so its a lessen to understand the in and outs to mitigate panic which is going to drastically lessen optimal outcomes. Though just because a event requiring secondary care has occurred does not entail knowing the heath care sector in a country which requires some significant study of how sub sectors interconnect and then find ways to prove you are worthy for treatment which usually is to be insured or pay up front. If in panic the patient can easy pay well over what is required through services rendered that were in affect not required and so if wanting total peace of mind then top insurance seems a good bet. When down the heath care sector has got you over a barrel and end up being your real friends all things being equal. So the simulation of palliative care system for end of life treatment can benefit from some research after a close shave with the secondary care given its a sub system in its own right and may not be what you'd want to receive in a country in the way prescribed by careers. Then there's the option for life support and when it should be switched off.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @italogiardina8183 Thanks for sharing your insights! We can attest that navigating healthcare in the Philippines requires understanding the system and being prepared.

[@-goldfinger2695]

Health insurance is a must unless you are a USA veteran. At 67 I too live in the Philippines. I purchased international health insurance with no deductible for $200 USD a month . Pacific Cross. You can save 25% on your premium with a 10% co-pay. Any previous conditions are covered after 1 year. Worth it ❤

[@marianeil6630]

Who is your agent?? in Pacific Cross?? Thank you.

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @-goldfinger2695 Thanks for sharing, we agree, having international health insurance has given us peace of mind!

[@222jojo]

2 of my Fav's!!!

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @222jojo Thanks for watching and liking!

[@JMgmkh]

I was in Ace. Ace is the place !

[@paulinthephilippinesolddog9234]

Hi @gjm456 Glad you enjoyed Dumaguete/Ace!