I  have age related hearing loss. Nothing major. Basically, if something is loud enough, I can hear it. Recheck appointment in two years. I can live with that.

One of the fun facts about aging is that you collect an array of doctors. I remember with great fondness the years when it was just a yearly appointment with my friendly OBGYN. I made the appointment in the summer to coincide with my teaching schedule, and that was that. Those days are gone forever.

Let me say at the outset that I’m lucky enough to enjoy good health. In spite of that, I have routine blood work, and my records grace the offices of an internist, a dermatologist, an ophthalmologist, and now an ear, nose, and throat specialist. I’ve had recent tests for glaucoma, skin cancer, and hearing loss. That’s not even counting the mammogram and bone density test. All negative. At least so far. There are definitely times when I feel like the proverbial kid with her finger in the dike.

I guess I should be grateful that these tests are aimed toward nipping a potential problem before it blossoms into a big deal. And I am. Also grateful that I can whip out my Medicare and supplemental coverage cards, and all fees are covered. In a better world, all people could say the same.