Advice on Insurance for Type 1?

[31YrsType1]

I had a job prior where I was in a group plan, I got laid off awhile ago and used my full 18 months of Cobra, but then that ran out.  Now I'm using Consumers Choice, which isn't really insurance, but a discount program.  So, far there coverage on prescription drugs(non-diabetic) have actually been better than I thought.  But, as most people know, insurance companies & pre-existing conditions don't mix well.  I've enough pump supplies to carry me through thus far, but will need more eventually and the medical coverage is iffy at best.  Right before my Cobra expired I looked into getting some coverage via Hippa, but the only one who would even consider me was Anthem and they wanted like $650/month.  I'm not saying my health isn;t worth the price, but if you don't have, you don't have it.  Thus the cut rate I have now.  Does anyone have any recommendations or suggestions for coverage thats not outrageous?

And I'd also like to pass along a few links, I recently started ordering my insulin from Canada, and it's a deal compared to here in the US.  Novolog is sold under the name NovoRapid in Canada(no difference otherwise). I get 6 vials for about $175 w/ shipping and get it in 2 days.  They have other supplies, like pens & other types also.  You do need a valid prescription!

The link is: http://www.canadianpharmacymeds.com/

And this for test strips for my BG meter, about 1/2 of any other place I've found.

The link is: http://www.americandiabeteswholesale.com/

Just thought I'd pass the info along to those in the same boat as me.

[JDRF-Team-RL]

Hello again!  Thanks for the links.  I have to admit I'm not an expert on insurance, but I'd bet there are others reading who might have a suggestion.  Can anyone help?

[JDRF-Team-LRS]

Hello there,
I'm another volunteer.  Being in between insurance can be scary and also very expensive.  Insurance regulations vary somewhat by state and so I'd like to refer you to our sister initiative, also sponsored by JDRF.  It's called Online Diabetes Support Team (ODST).  Unlike our very public forum here, ODST allows folks with questions to connect up with volunteers -- often in your area on issues that are much more individualized than what we can comment here.  Just like this forum, it's a group of JDRF volunteers who provide the support.

There is at least one volunteer at ODST who is somewhat of an expert on insurance questions & issues.  Here's how to connect ...

Visit www.jdrf.org and look for the link to ODST/Newly Diagnosed.  There'll be a place to enter basic contact information so that the volunteer can work directly with you.

Good luck with all this!

[31YrsType1]

Thank you so much, I have Consumers Choice USA, but their only a discount program.  And I just recently had to go to the hospital for something that was unrelated to my diabetes, and now I'm on the hook for about $8000.  The nature of the way insurance works in this country is ridiculous. But, I guess thats another topic.

thanks so much, I'll check that link out.

[JDRF-Team-cb]

Hi,
I have a suggestion about your hospital bill-did you call the billing department and ask to see if you could get a discount or write off?  You will have to fill out paperwork, but depending on your income the hospital will adjust your bill(most do)  We didn't think we would qualify but we did after filling out the papers.
Another suggestion-do you have any centers in your area that want volunteers for their diabetic studies?  That might be a way to get your supplies for a year and do some good for research-look on the JDRF website for information.