Read your insurance policy and get some assistance, if needed, in understanding it. It is too easy for a claims adjuster to say "I don't think that's covered" when you come down with an expensive disease. Make sure you are getting a good reading of the policy terms.
Good luck!
Jen - lots of folks get assistance --- but double check with your insurance... I'm surprised that they will not cover the HCV medications.
Mine covered it - and the medical care - I was very blessed.
But I had to talk to them --- call them and discuss it --- and get approved.
So don't hesitate to do that --- They may make you try to jump through hoops --- and if you're just not up to it --- get a friend or family member to help out.
They really should be taking care of you --- that is WHY you pay for insurance coverage in the first place.
Much luck!
Ps. - those numbers are AWESOME and they are a great help!
Thanks I'll start looking into it tomorrow. I'll let you know what I find.
Jen, I read this on one of the other forums today.
You can be treated for free at one of the teaching hospitals nearest you.
http://healthguideusa.org/teaching_hospitals.htm
Definitely call the Pegassist people -- they'll donate the drugs for free even if you make a decent living and they're very gracious. That's the only way I could treat since I have no insurance. I got Alinia for free too. For lab work, Quest Diagnotics will put you on a payment plan. You'll need this as the PCR which measures VL is about $300 a pop not to mention all the other tests you'll need.
Also, be sure to apply for disability if the sx render you unable to work. And if you don't have more than $2,000 in your bank account you can qualify for SSI.
Please ask if you have more questions.
Kittyface
You can contact the following for questions regarding patient financial assistance:
Pegassist (Roche Pegasys system): 1-877-734-2797
Commitment to Care (Schering- Plough PEG-Intron system): 1-800-521-7157
Rousch Pegassist Resource Center 877-734-2797
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
Just go to www.procritline.com
good luck :-)