Should I contact Shared Solutions now?

[katie4242]

Hey everybody -

I saw my neuro for my follow-up and he confirmed my MS dx because I have two lesions on my c-spine.  He wrote me a Rx for Copaxone and I am just waiting for the approval, etc.  I am self employed and go under my husband's insurance.  He has one of those crazy plans with the high deductible, then we pay 20% co-pay until we reach an out of pocket max.  I know that our monthly payment for Copaxone  is going to break the bank.  Will Shared Solutions be able to offer any practical ideas for assistance?  Combined, my husband and myself share a nice income; however, we have 3 kids and daycare, clothing, food, housing, etc. are all expensive.  I'm not sure how much else we can take on and stay afloat.  Sometimes I think that universal healthcare is the way to go.

Katie

[sllowe]

Hi Katie,

Sorry for your dx. I hope you are able to work w/SS on something affordable to you and your family.

You feeling comfortable w/the dx? Hope so. I highly recommend attending newly diagnosed seminars. Though I did not attend them myself immediately upon dx, I've gone to them and some other since then and they are really a good source of info and resources, etc.

Let us know how you make out,
-shell

[Deb61]

Welcome to the forum!  I felt exactly the way you did when I was first diagnosed in getting on with the treatment.  Maybe your husband raise the level of your insurance at next enrollment period?  I had a similar plan when I was first diagnosed, but had no problem going to the middle level after a few months when the enrollment period started.

I take Copaxone and I do think I've seen something in the mail or have gotten a phone call about some kind of assistance.  Here's the web site that mentions a number for calling if you need financial assistance:

http://www.copaxone.com/supportServices/insurAssist.aspx

I will keep my fingers crossed for you.  I do like Copaxone, and I'm glad that I chose this medicine over the others.

Best of wishes,
Deb

[katie4242]

We did talk about the other meds, but my doc said that because the Copaxone did not have the flu-like side effects, that it was the way to go.  He thought that my busy life was more suited to Copaxone.  I'm just anxious to get it started because my doc mentioned that it takes 6 to 9 months to reach full effectiveness, and I feel like I've already wasted so much time.  
Thanks!

Katie

[Lulu54]

Katie,
Welcome to this side of the mountain - I hate to hear you have a dx of MS, but at least now you have answers and can move on.  It sounds like you have a lot to consider when it comes to getting on a DMD.

I would be talking to SS immediately about what program assistance there might be for your situation.  I know TEVA funds a large chunk for NORD, even though you may be told there is no $$ for MS patients there.  You have to apply for funds through SS.

Did your doctor discuss any other treatment options?  I know some of the other dmd's are more affordable.  And there isn't a big difference in the efficacy between copaxone and the interferons.  You might want to have an honest talk with the doctor aobut the economics.

Welcome again to the club - it's not an exclusive membership.  I hope we will see you around - as you think of more questions, we are a great resource for answers.

be well, Lulu