resource for free tx if needed

I am starting tx on Jan. 3rd and I am worried about maybe getting too sick to work. I have insurance to pay for the tx. now but what if I have to quit or cut my hours. What happens then. I am sure that the meds are way beyond what I could afford. I have a job sitting in front of a computer all day. Maybe that will help. Anyway, has anyone had this problem come up? sure would like to hear from you and find out what you did. Thanks!! Hope everyone has a wonderful Xmas!!

[justme53]

I'm in the same position you're in...I start tx a day earlier than you and I depend on my job (single) to pay for medical insurance, rent, etc.

My insurance has already denied part of my meds (the double dose PEG) They will pay for 4 injections per month, not 8, so the clinic is giving me the rest free for the first 4-12 months. I also asked my Dr. about these same concerns and if all else fails, I can get them from the drug companies if I can't work through tx. I'm like you, hoping cuz I have a desk job and supportive co-workers, that I will be able to manage. My Dr. did advise me to fill an Rx for a sleeper (which I did) to help me deal with things better during the day.

Isobella posted some phone number for free meds in another thread. I'll see if I can locate it. It might be something to add to the health pages as well. Do you have any short or long term disability thru work? I've only got vacation and sick days, so I really have to watch it

I called the pharmacy to see how much these meds cost since I'll have to pay out of pocket after the first of the year until my deductible is met....and I almost choked!!!
That price tag will get my buns into work each day!!

Good luck as you start your tx........Pam

[justme53]

Correctiom: that should read 4-12 WEEKS!!!!

[agatha56]

I do have Short Term disability but I just signed up for it around the same time I found out I have this horrid disease. They will not honor it because if you have even had diagnostic tests for something in the last 12 months they won't give it to you. So it is basically worthless. I have not told anyone at work about this because I am a nurse and I know too well how people look at you with diseases like this. Sad but true. People are afraid of it. When I came home and told my boyfriend I had tested positive for this I was scared to death. I was pleasantly surprised by his reaction. He has been very compassionate although our sex life has become a big "0". I think he is afraid and I don't blame him. we have been together for 8 years so I think he would of gotten it by now. Anyway, I could go on and on. I do feel dirty at times. I just want it GONE.

[Bill1954]

Here are some links to Hepatitis C Patient Assistance Programs by the manufacturers:

Pegassist (Roche Pegasys system): 1-877-734-2797

Commitment to Care (Schering- Plough PEG-Intron system): 1-800-521-7157

Additionally, Needymeds is a great resource for *all* meds; not necessarily HCV related:

http://www.needymeds.org/

Good luck-- Bill

[justme53]

Agatha,

Here's a couple more to add to Bill's that I culled from another thread.......

Healthwell Foundation  800-675-8416

Chronic Disease fund 877-968-7233

Shared Solutions  800-887-8100

Mnord  800-634-7207

Free procrit, call 1-800-553-3851

Pam

[agatha56]

Thank you Bill and Pam. Hopefully, I won't need the numbers but just in case I would like to be ready. Thanks again!!