The Uninsured

I'm a 25 year old, independent, uninsured, full-time college student. My ankle suddenly got swollen a couple years and I thought it would eventually go away; it didn’t. After a few doctor visits, the only answer was the diagnosis of chronic ankle laxity (I have weak ankles). I exercised on a regular basis, and considered myself fairly healthy. I then experienced swelling on my wrist and fingers. I went to my school health center and according to my lab results I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. How did the previous doctors miss that? They suggested I get Medi-Cal to help cover expenses.
I went to CDSS to see if I qualified for Medi-Cal. I was rejected because I didn’t work enough. I’m a full-time student and my grades would falter if I worked any more than I already did. I would however qualify if I was pregnant. How is that fair? I would get help from the state for not knowing how to use birth-control and bringing a child into this world that I knew I couldn’t afford I could quit school and afford medical insurance. However, that’s not an option.
I have to go to a rheumatologist to get and official diagnosis. I have a constant pain in my hand, I can’t move my wrist and it’s hard to get dressed in the mornings. In addition to the swelling, I also have a debilitating pain in the rest of my body incredible fatigue. I’m in limbo, I can’t afford medical help and I’m uninsurable. At the mention of a possible illness, Blue Shield of California quickly rushed me off the phone. They referred me to California Major who offered me a $470/month plan. I’m a college student, where am I supposed to get that kind of money?
There is something seriously wrong with our system. I know I’m not the only one out there with this problem. I need help, I’m at a dead-end. What choice do I have?

[carolanivey]

Welcome to "the finest medical system in the world." NOT.

I'm not sure how it works in California, but there may be services available through the county health department or through your state bureau of vocational rehabilitation.  Ask for a referral to a medical social worker who knows how to navigate the system and find free and reduced price services for you.

I don't know if you are taking any over the counter medications, but this may be your only choice until you get hooked up with some services. Whatever you decide to take, make sure you take it regularly and don't skip doses even if it makes you feel better. Tylenol probably isn't going to help you; it'll have to be something like ibuprofen or naproxen. These can upset your stomach so be careful with your diet and alcohol consumption.

Most, if not all, drug manufacturers offer free and reduced cost medications for people in need. Check the companies' web sites for information.

Wrist splints to support your wrists and keep them in a neutral position, especially at night, can help. Also compression gloves such as isotoner arthritis gloves or IMAK gloves. I use the IMAKs with the fingertips left open so it's easier to type.

Fatigue goes hand in hand with RA. Obviously, adequate rest is important, as is good nutrition.

I think your number one priority is to get yourself through school. Just my opinion, take it for what it's worth. :) That may mean moving back in with family to reduce expenses and get the support you need until you get through.

I hope this was somewhat helpful. Hang in there!

[starvingcollegestudent805]

Thank you so much! I will most definitely look into those:) Thank you!

[carolanivey]

You're welcome, hon. Let me know how you're doing!

[atonicat]

OK first of all never disclose any pre existing condition to an insurance company. You havn't even been diagnosed yet so technically you don't have a pre existing condition so don't even tell them. As far as they need to know, you're in perfect health. Once you have the policy, you'll have to start from the ground up but it will be worth it.

Do your parents have health insurance? Usually if you're a full time student you can ride their insurance until you're done with school, then they kick you off. Medical is a joke. When I was 18 I was homeless, living on the streets in San Diego. I tried to get some sort of welfare or food stamps and they basically told me the same thing. Since I didn't have a child, I didn't qualify. I really don't see how that makes any sense.

Do you know if you school has any sort of insurance type thing. You said they have a health center but I'm not sure what that covers. Also have you looked into community clinic type deals? We have several in my area. It's kind of like what Planned Parenthood does. The fee is based on your income. If you have no income, it's free. That might be a good place to start and maybe they can refer you to other low or no cost specialized health care.