To view the accompanying photo essay, click here. To watch the accompanying documentary, click here.
In the first episode of “Out of Pocket,” host Julian Camejo talks with Myrna Esteva, an administrative assistant at Dade Christian School. She lost her healthcare last year due to an error by the Department of Children and Families that claimed she had made over $3000 a month when in reality, she made much less.
This disenrollment, which she stated was unexpected, left her scrambling to find ways to prove that she hadn’t made as much money as they claimed. The podcast follows her receiving the letter and her navigating a new way of life. She then leaves the listener with some advice on what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation.
The episode deals with the challenges of living life as a senior who cannot afford necessary services. Esteva shares her emotions after receiving a letter that stated that she would be losing her health insurance. Next she details the reasons given for lack of eligibility for medicare. After that she lists the series of sacrifices she has had to make to afford the critical medical visits and medicines. Lastly she shares her thoughts on what she would tell the person who decides medicare eligibility and pleads with them to think about elders in need of medical insurance. The podcast was recorded in her home in Miami Gardens.
Episode 1
Episode 2
In the second episode, hosts Jada Denaud and Juan Moreno discuss the systemic challenges around healthcare insurance in the United States. Joined by Dr. Frank Fan, a clinical assistant professor at FIU’s Department of Health Services Administration, their discussion unpacks the primary barriers Americans face when accessing healthcare. Dr. Fan highlights that rising costs, restrictive insurance policies, and disparities in coverage continue to leave communities struggling to receive adequate care. He explains how employer-based insurance gaps and Medicaid limitations intensify these issues, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to maintain stable healthcare coverage.
The episode also explores potential policy solutions and administrative efforts aimed at improving accessibility. Dr. Fan discusses successful public health initiatives, including Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies and medicaid expansion, which have helped bridge coverage gaps. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers, insurance companies and policymakers to create more inclusive healthcare systems. Looking ahead, he expresses optimism about telehealth advancements and policy reforms that could shape the future of healthcare access. Out of Pocket continues to shed light on the emotional and financial toll of healthcare struggles, offering valuable insight into one of the most critical issues affecting Americans today.
