No Uninsured Walkers Allowed
I don’t think it’s a trend, but a reader pointed out that she couldn’t participate in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure because they required that she have health insurance. I checked their entry form and web site. Indeed, all walkers must have health insurance while participating in the event.
I can see the rationale because I have participated in the 3-Day Walk as both a walker and a crew member. These walks are held in several cities in the US. Walkers walk 15-22 miles a day for three days, which is a challenging distance, and heat has been a problem at several of the events over the years. Unfortunately, at each event I attended, dozens to hundreds of walkers were transported by ambulance to local hospitals for dehydration, hyponatremia, heat sickness or injury. Even as a fully-prepared walker, I had heat sickness by mile 10 of my first event due to the change in climate. Luckily, my problems resolved with rest, shade and sports drink. Step by step on a 3-Day Walk
The Komen site says, “You must also provide proof of medical insurance on the medical form in order to participate. Though the 3-Day for the Cure provides emergency medical services without charge, personal health insurance is needed to cover the cost of any medical care received away from the event. For example: if emergency room or ambulance transport is necessary, insurance coverage may apply. Check with your insurance company for the terms of your individual policy. If you do not currently have insurance, we suggest you obtain temporary insurance.” In addition, all walkers fill out a medical form, and the event may require a physician’s written consent for participation if the walker is pregnant or has certain medical conditions.
Is this a reasonable requirement for participating in a walking event where you must also raise a minimum of $2300 to participate? What do you think? Would this keep you from participating?
No Uninsured Walkers Allowed originally appeared on About.com Walking on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 at 07:18:25.
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