How do you handle the cost of being bipolar?

[Nikki2226]

I added up the cost of my treatment for bipolar disorder and it came out to almost $1,000 a month.  I don't have any insurance.  That amount includes visits to the psychiatrist, counselor, and medication bills.  The medicine makes up the bulk of that.  The expences coupled with the fact that I have not been able to work full time and my husband just started a new business is enough to realy stress me out.  What are my options?  The counselor recomended getting help through my local MHMR, and I set up an apointment.  I like my current doctor but I can't afford him, so I might not have a choice but to use the MHMR doctor.  Are there any other opotions out there to help people like me?.  

[triedeverymed]

I try to get samples whever possible. My medical bills last year were $25,000. That was my portion, not the insurance. My meds alone cost almost $500 a month. I need better insurance.
Some meds I buy generic from Canada. I send my RX to them and they fill it and send me my meds. You have tto allow plenty of time but they have generics that we don't yet. It takes 10 years for a drugs' patent to run out in the US then it goes generic. In other countries they don't have the FDA to worry about & their not in bed with the drug companies!!
It's always worth a shot.
SAmples, samples, samples!!!
Erin

[determined2beatit]

Explain the situation to your Doctor,there are ways he can get you in a program for lost cost meds depending on where you live. My Doctor gives me a lot of samples to get me through and help with the costs.

[dr3amsofglass]

What medications are you on?

Also, try to find a sliding scale doctor in your area. They are out there if you look around. My doc. currently charges me $50 for an hour long visit.

Also, what meds are you on? I take lamictal, lithium, and paxil...The lamictal was costing me over $300 a month, but my doctor was able to get me on the "bridges to access" program, and now my lamictal is mailed to me monthly for no cost.

All in all, I would reccommend shopping for a new doc if the one you currently have is not able to take your financial situation into consideration. A sliding scale doctor is more likely to help you find cheap prescriptions as well.

[RubyShooz]

I don't know what MHMR is -- but if you contact your local mental health organization they might be able to recommend where you can go for help with medical bills.  You may even be able to explain your situation to your psychiatrist and he may be willing to lower his fees for you.  It never hurts to ask.  Also, I have heard that if you contact the drug companies directly and explain your situation, sometimes they will help with the cost of the medicine. Good luck to you.