Laura Kimball was diagnosed as relapsing/remitting in 2005. multiple sclerosisRRMS) were the only options for treating this chronic and debilitating condition. She was instructed to prepare for the worst.

Her outlook improved after hearing Paul Harvey’s radio broadcast, in which he announced her enrollment for a clinical trial of an investigational drug.

“I called my local National Multiple Sclerosis Society chapter to find out if what I heard was true, and I couldn’t believe it when they told me it was,”Laura is still thinking back. “I quickly worked to enroll in the study and finally felt like I was proactively doing something to manage my disease.”

Multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease, affects the central nervous systems. Approximately 85 percent are diagnosed with the most common type of the disease, RRMS. RRMS involves a person experiencing attacks (also called relapses, exacerbations, or worsening neurologic functioning) followed by periods in which partial or total recovery is possible. RRMS can be a complicated disease. Every person is different, but the most common symptoms are:

* Weakness

* Numbness

* Tingling sensations

* Balance problems, stumbling

* Depression

* Blurred vision

* Fatigue

* Cognitive difficulties

Researchers have made great strides in the last few decades to find treatments for MS. Eight therapies are now approved.

“Every day, Paul Harvey has been part of my life. Every day I am grateful for that broadcast and the difference he made in my life. Now I am sharing my story to tell anyone living with RRMS to work with your neurologist to find the right treatment for you and to stick with it.”

Today’s life is very fast. People can check their kids’ soccer scores on the phone, while also sending emails to work with the help of digital technology. With the advent of the Internet, consumers can expect the same conveniences from all services and businesses except their insurance companies. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.

Just being insured isn’t enough, especially with nearly two-thirds American households earning less than 2002. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is critical for both financial recovery and physical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Employers are being forced to reduce costs as rising health care costs put even more financial pressure on their employees.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

A lot of people will have to wait for up to a few months before receiving their insurance payments. Many insurance companies strive to provide fast service with better technology and better understanding of customers’ needs. This is one example. AflacIn the insurance industry, it is rare to find policies that allow for claims approval, processing, and payment within one day.

In the past, fast payment policies were a luxury. It’s a necessity. It is more important than ever that you have money available immediately for serious injuries or illnesses. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.