Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 In a message dated 3/29/00 9:30:52 PM Eastern Standard Time, elainetm@... writes: << Have you tried the medicaid system in your area? I don't qualify for any welfare assistance. I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. I live in Virginia. Some other states might be more lenient and decent. >> I was covered under Medicaid while I was pregnant but after that I was taken off, and can't reapply. Not sure I understand all the details. I know VA's insurance coverages and stuff are really different then they are here in Michigan. I lived in VA for 3 years and was amazed. Thanks for your help! Jewls Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 In a message dated 3/29/00 9:30:52 PM Eastern Standard Time, elainetm@... writes: << Have you tried the medicaid system in your area? I don't qualify for any welfare assistance. I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. I live in Virginia. Some other states might be more lenient and decent. >> I was covered under Medicaid while I was pregnant but after that I was taken off, and can't reapply. Not sure I understand all the details. I know VA's insurance coverages and stuff are really different then they are here in Michigan. I lived in VA for 3 years and was amazed. Thanks for your help! Jewls Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 Jewls, Friends of mine who need help paying for her hubbys meds. ($1800.00 a month!!!) were told to have their dr. help him get in touch with the pharmaseutical (sp?) companies that make his meds because almost all of them have plans to help uninsured people continue getting their meds at reduced costs and in some cases free...talk to you dr. Hope this helps. Hope your feeling better too. *HUGZ* Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 Jewls, Friends of mine who need help paying for her hubbys meds. ($1800.00 a month!!!) were told to have their dr. help him get in touch with the pharmaseutical (sp?) companies that make his meds because almost all of them have plans to help uninsured people continue getting their meds at reduced costs and in some cases free...talk to you dr. Hope this helps. Hope your feeling better too. *HUGZ* Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 WOW Elaine, $250.00 month for individual HMO...and no perscription coverage. My Aunt had a policy here with Blue Cross/Blue Shield with perscriptions ($200.00 yearly deductible on scripts) and it only ran $212.00...shouldn't say only because that is still high but she did have perscription coverage. This is in NY State. Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 29, 2000 Report Share Posted March 29, 2000 I am not prescription covered, made it very known to the endo, and the fact that I tolerated PTU without problems. PTU is considerably cheaper. I pay for it out of my own pocket. You may have to make a decision to change medicine. Have you tried the medicaid system in your area? I don't qualify for any welfare assistance. I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. I live in Virginia. Some other states might be more lenient and decent. Elaine Researching Bohemian Surnames S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A Help with medication > From: Freedoverc@... > > Hi everyone, > > Does anyone know of any organizations that will help with the cost of > medication? Right now, we have no insurance, and I don't see it in the near > future. Tapazole is really expensive when you dont' have it. > > Please let me know if anyone knows of any place. > > Thanks! > Jewls (freedoverc@...) > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 In a message dated 3/29/00 11:33:54 PM Eastern Standard Time, luckystrike@... writes: << Hope your feeling better too >> Thank for the information Jody, I'll check into it. I'm still not really seeing any difference in when I took just propanolol to now when I am taking that and tapazole. I know the dr told me it could take up to 3 weeks to notice anything. Past couple mornings I've woken up with massive headaches....wondering what's causing that. Hope everyone else is doing well! Jewls Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 >>I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. 'Scuse the ignorant Australian here, but what does that $250 cover? I can't believe how much health-care costs over there. (I assume you're in US?) Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that covers anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and you don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU cost $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about $50 your money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our doctor, no waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). Gea Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 Jewls, When are you scheduled to go see this dr. again? If you have a week or two to go before you see him you may want to call him and get in now for bloodwork and find out what is going on. Just because they schedule an appointment for a certain date by no means, doesn't mean you have to wait until then. Call him and while you talking to him, let him know that you can't afford the Tap and ask for his help with getting it from the drug mfg. If he tells you he doesn't know about such plans he is not being honest with you. I just called my drs. office and his nurse told me that this is available nation wide from the mfgs. for patients who can not afford their medicines for treatments. Feel better soon...am keeping you in good thoughts and prayers. *HUGZ* Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 Thanks for the information again Jody. I go back to the dr in 5 weeks. I need to call to get my propanolol refilled so it will give me a good excuse to call them. For right now, I've got a weeks less then 90 pills to last me. I already paid almost $70 for them. I'll let you know what i find out. I do know that when I was there for my appt last week, they didnt' have any samples, but they said when I come back, they'll hold some back, so that will help. In the meantime, my hubby is trying really hard to get his boss to get insurance. Then I'll only have to pay $15 for scrips, which is a heck of a lot better! I'll keep you posted! Jewls In a message dated 3/30/00 12:28:08 PM Eastern Standard Time, luckystrike@... writes: << When are you scheduled to go see this dr. again? If you have a week or two to go before you see him you may want to call him and get in now for bloodwork and find out what is going on. Just because they schedule an appointment for a certain date by no means, doesn't mean you have to wait until then. Call him and while you talking to him, let him know that you can't afford the Tap and ask for his help with getting it from the drug mfg. If he tells you he doesn't know about such plans he is not being honest with you. I just called my drs. office and his nurse told me that this is available nation wide from the mfgs. for patients who can not afford their medicines for treatments. >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 Gea, Be glad you have that kind of coverage! This is what the expenses have been so far for me. blood tests 2 times - $195 EACH time Thyroid scan - $275 (that was CHEAP!) dr's visit $125 Follow up $45 Propanolol - two refills - $12.00 each (REAL cheap!) Tapazole - 90 tablets filled once almost $70 That's all US currency without anytype of insurance. I've had to pay that up front....NOT good! Would love to be down there in Australia where it only cost $10 for 200 tablets! Jewls In a message dated 3/30/00 5:15:13 PM Eastern Standard Time, honeybone@... writes: << Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that covers anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and you don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU cost $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about $50 your money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our doctor, no waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). >> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 30, 2000 Report Share Posted March 30, 2000 My insurance premium is more than one-third of my total social security benefit. I sold my home and if there was not a mortgage payment being paid to me, I would not have any health insurance because I simply would not be able to pay for it. The US phobia about health coverage for the masses has created a monster for those of us who are no longer in the workforce. Incredibly, it now even extends to the workforce where benefits are being cut back and premiums are being shifted to the workers. It is an unfortunate way of life in the USA. I am insuring against possible catastrophic illness. So far I have been blessed with reasonably good health, ignoring Graves and possible side effects. I pay $10 US when I see an in-house doctor. I pay $20 US when I see a specialist. Theoretically, I should not have to pay anything if I am hospitalized. I haven't tested that (fortunately <smile>). I did require radiation to reduce eye swelling and double vision problems associated with TED, and that was covered. I believe that may have cost the HMO (moving money across budget lines, because I was at the HMO's affiliated hospital) about $4,000 and perhaps $5,000 US by the time the oncologist-specialists were paid in addition to the oncology lab. Blood tests and laboratory fees have all been covered. The HMO is now ailing and shows dangerous lack of viability. If it can hang on until I can cross the threshold into Social Security and Medicare I will be okay. I wait with baited breath since I live in a State (Virginia) that offers me nothing should that happen. You are very fortunate (and I have always known that!). Best, Elaine Researching Bohemian Surnames S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A Re: Help with medication > >>I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an > individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. > > 'Scuse the ignorant Australian here, but what does that $250 cover? I can't > believe how much health-care costs over there. (I assume you're in US?) > > Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that covers > anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are > longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and you > don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU cost > $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! > > We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about $50 your > money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our doctor, no > waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). > > Gea > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > 1. Fill in the brief application > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > Apply NOW! > http://click./1/975/3/_/585824/_/954453684/ > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 , I don't disagree with all that you are saying but personally think that *someone* else needs to be monitoring the Health Care Industry, ie. insurance companies...maybe not government (I really hate the thought of government being *big brother* anymore than they already are in our lives) but with some kind of monitoring insurance companies could not be playing the games they play...I am glad that a bill is going forward that allows patients to take action against their HMO's if they are denied a benefit, especially in a life or death situation. It irks the hell out of me when I hear and HMO bureaucrat has denied someone treatment that a patients DR. says they must have when this insurance person has no medical background are is just looking at the bottom line of cost...never mind that maybe this person is 35 years old, 3 kids and without this particular treatment they are going to die. Also I have read a lot and seen a lot of news shows about the *kickbacks* (for lack of a better word) that some drs. are receiving from some insurance companies for " keeping their costs down " by not ordering testing, treatments, trying alternatives etc. And like it or not that IS happening all over this country. When we were in the HMO where my husband works, we got blood work once a year...I got it twice a year cause of GD...now we opted for a different plan with the company (they offer 4 different plans) I see a HUGE difference with this plan...I get in whenever I want to, I call to get my bloodwork ordered when *I* feel I need it, just a whole different attitude and I believe it is because of the different plan. Again...I don't know what the answers are but I do believe that a regulatory committee in the insurance company that is meant to watch out for the consumer rather than them...and having alternatives to fall back on when an HMO denies one has to be accomlished. Just my thoughts. *HUGZ* to all Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi , I had to respond to your last message...A Republican YIKES!!! LOL <teasing you> It isn't government that is closing hospital ER's, it is mismanagement on the parts of the high administrations in hospitals with their 6 figure salaries to push papers and find a way out of the financial straights they now find themselves in. They earn the high salaries for pushing paperwork around and making bureaucratic decisions (someone has to do it I guess) but it is on the backs of the drs. nurses, janitors, aids, cafeteria people in these institution. But it just isn't in hospitals this goes on...it is in government, in insurance companies, in pharamcuetical (sp) companies, in furniture factories...it is all over...that is the way it works... I don't want to see socialized medicine here at all...but in a way through HMO's it is on its way...not the way of *everyone* having coverage that needs it...but even in Canada *full* coverage for all is a myth from what friends of mine have been telling me about their situation. HMO's that determine who can have what procedure and when is how medicine is done in Canada (with the exception of urgent care) Our friend there has been on a waiting list for 14 mos. now while an aortic anyeruism (sp?) has gone from 4.3cm to 7.9 cm. and they still don't know when they will do anything (grrrrrr)...] I don't know what the answers are to the situation we have here regarding medical coverage, perscriptions and costs but some for of regulation, if it has to come from government setting up the regulatory committee then so be it but regulation has to come, to lower perscription costs, to determine when an HMO says NO to a procedure whether it is going to be made available to a patient etc. There are just to many people from all ages who do not have any coverage, can not get state aid because the state deems they make to much money to be eligible...never mind it is a dollar above what they allow at poverty wages, in a country that is *suppose* to be the biggest player in regards to world power, medicine and freedoms (and lots more) we are behind the 8-ball in my opinion. Who knows, maybe it is government that started the bloating and big business that followed ... or vice versa, it has happened and there are literally BILLIONS of dollars wasted to cover these costs, get meds paid for, and get research dollars where they are needed...the only way to change all of that is to change who sits in Washington (but please not Bush *shiver*), to have a regulatory committee that allows drs. to be drs. and do what all of the years of training have prepared them for at all levels....without government involvement, how would you purpose to get things accomplished? I'm serious I really want to know your ideas. *HUGZ* Jody PS Sorry if this topic is boring anyone...will take the next one private ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi Elaine and all- I would dearly love to give up paying the $500/mo that I pay to an HMO (we pay it all). It'd be much cheaper for us even though lab tests are expensive. But my husband and I are afraid I'll end up with something else and that's what keeps us paying. I've said this before. Whether money is wasted through administrators or bureaucracy makes no difference. There is a valid fear that once government gets control of medicine, it'll just screw it up. It's already become a political hot potato. Doctors and hospitals lose an awful lot of money on their medicare and medicaid patients so even though government is supposed to be funding it, they are not the ones doing all of the paying. And it takes forever for the doctors and hospitals to get paid when they do. But we never ever hear about that in the media. That's why so many doctors won't accept medicare anymore. Government wastes when it manages anything. At one time, we had good reasonably priced medicine. Some bad doctors took advantage and overcharged insurance companies, hence the advent of the HMO. Everyone suffered for those few because it caused the cost of medical benefits to skyrocket. Now, there have been many many advances that have also increased costs and everyone thinks they are entitled to the best care whether they pay for it or not (e.g. heart and liver transplants). What I'm saying isn't popular. I don't like HMOs any better than anyone else. But I haven't liked the proposals for universal healthcare that have come up so far. I would be amenable if one did come up that was somewhat acceptable. If government could handle the programs that they already administer it would be key for support. They haven't done so well so far. It's not any better whether an administrator tells a doctor who can get what benefits or whether some government official tells the doctor (and believe me it takes the government official way longer to get back). Either way the doctor cannot do what he or she thinks is best for the patient. Both systems have inherent flaws built in and most people don't know about them because they don't know what goes on behind the scenes. Just something to think about. Take care, ETM wrote: > My insurance premium is more than one-third of my total social security > benefit. I sold my home and if there was not a mortgage payment being paid > to me, I would not have any health insurance because I simply would not be > able to pay for it. The US phobia about health coverage for the masses has > created a monster for those of us who are no longer in the workforce. > Incredibly, it now even extends to the workforce where benefits are being > cut back and premiums are being shifted to the workers. It is an > unfortunate way of life in the USA. > > I am insuring against possible catastrophic illness. So far I have been > blessed with reasonably good health, ignoring Graves and possible side > effects. I pay $10 US when I see an in-house doctor. I pay $20 US when I > see a specialist. Theoretically, I should not have to pay anything if I am > hospitalized. I haven't tested that (fortunately <smile>). > > I did require radiation to reduce eye swelling and double vision problems > associated with TED, and that was covered. I believe that may have cost the > HMO (moving money across budget lines, because I was at the HMO's affiliated > hospital) about $4,000 and perhaps $5,000 US by the time the > oncologist-specialists were paid in addition to the oncology lab. Blood > tests and laboratory fees have all been covered. > > The HMO is now ailing and shows dangerous lack of viability. If it can hang > on until I can cross the threshold into Social Security and Medicare I will > be okay. I wait with baited breath since I live in a State (Virginia) that > offers me nothing should that happen. > > You are very fortunate (and I have always known that!). > > Best, > > Elaine > > Researching Bohemian Surnames > S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A > > Re: Help with medication > > > >>I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an > > individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. > > > > 'Scuse the ignorant Australian here, but what does that $250 cover? I > can't > > believe how much health-care costs over there. (I assume you're in US?) > > > > Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that covers > > anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are > > longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and you > > don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU cost > > $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! > > > > We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about $50 > your > > money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our doctor, > no > > waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). > > > > Gea > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > > 1. Fill in the brief application > > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > > Apply NOW! > > http://click./1/975/3/_/585824/_/954453684/ > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > > ------------------------------------- > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not > intended to replace expert medical care. > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > ---------------------------------------- > > > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Today's headline would indicate that US government programs are working. If the url splits, please copy all of it into your browser. It is an interesting article. http://cnn.com/2000/ALLPOLITICS/stories/03/30/socsec.medicare/index.html Elaine Researching Bohemian Surnames S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A Re: Help with medication > > > > > >>I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for an > > > individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. > > > > > > 'Scuse the ignorant Australian here, but what does that $250 cover? I > > can't > > > believe how much health-care costs over there. (I assume you're in US?) > > > > > > Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that covers > > > anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are > > > longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and you > > > don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU cost > > > $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! > > > > > > We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about $50 > > your > > > money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our doctor, > > no > > > waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). > > > > > > Gea > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > > > 1. Fill in the brief application > > > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > > > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > > > Apply NOW! > > > http://click./1/975/3/_/585824/_/954453684/ > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > > > > ------------------------------------- > > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not > > intended to replace expert medical care. > > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > > ---------------------------------------- > > > > > > > ------------------------------------- > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > ---------------------------------------- > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > 1. Fill in the brief application > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > Apply NOW! > http://click./1/2646/3/_/585824/_/954544319/ > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 BTW, my $250 covers one person (me) who is no longer in childbearing years and will not be adding any unwanted insurance dependents to the policy <smile>. Elaine Researching Bohemian Surnames S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A Re: Help with medication > Hi Elaine and all- > > I would dearly love to give up paying the $500/mo that I pay to an HMO (we pay it all). It'd be much cheaper for us <snip> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi I didn't realize you lived in Ca...your absolutely right about the indigency there. I lived in the Valley for 6 mos. before moving to San Diego for another 6 mos. then coming back home. The company I worked for in Van Nuys had a work force made up of over 60% illegals...this is fact. One Wed. the INS came in and sent them all packing back to Mexico...what happened on Sat. floored me literally...the COMPANY sent a bus into Mexico and brought them ALL back and they worked the week-end...When I told my husband about this he told me it happens all the time there...so that only adds to the problems that are faced...whats more even as illegals they not only get free medical, perscriptions and services but they also get food stamps and in many cases (can't understand how) they got financial aid while Americans citizens went without, living on the streets. This was in 1985/1986 so things may have changed. And as callous as this sounds, if our government can't take care of their own FIRST with all things they have no right to be taking care of illegals. There are too many ways to enter this country legally and to enter the work force here to allow this practice to continue, it is just unacceptable in my opinion. I'm in WNY and we do have a very small problem here but not to the magnatude that Ca. and Tx have it...and if this is what is closing hospitals and ER's out there, then it is time for new representatives, but try telling that to the people that b#$ch the loudest and don't vote. Your also right about how to make a difference, how to make changes, and with the internet it truly makes all things possible. Moveon.org is a perfect example and I for one am looking so forward to this Novembers elections to how many entrenched incumbents are ousted. Politicalwag.com is also another place to see how grass roots movements towards this end is going. McCains run in the primary lit a fire under many voters in this country, I only hope it continues. If anyone wants to e-mail their areas politicians for more funding for GD, perscription drugs that are affordable (what Jewls is going through is ludicrious), or for other medical reasons e-mail me and I will send out the URL that has all of the elected officials (except in small local governments)e-mail and snail mail addies. Maybe we in the US want to use the internet and other GD groups or auto-immune groups would like to work on a campaign to get something going. It isn't as hard as it sounds...work...yes, impossible...no. Would be a way of getting our government dollars to work for us instead of buying $600.00 toilet seats. But the problems with health care (insurance companies, medical coverage to people with diseases such as ours that aren't covered in their communities, or states) still boil down to no regulations and being allowed to do what they see fit with the money they get from the policy payees...and THAT has also got to stop. I am one of the fortunate ones, we now have a decent insurance plan that the company pays for...our co-pays (and nope, not an HMO)increase every 3 years as contracts come up but the cap is high and includes perscriptions. It wasn't always like this for me though either. I don't have the energy to get *angry* over things like this anymore, but I sure do have the energy and usually the time to help with getting something started. Studies like the one Elaine has been working on for those of us that want to participate in (which I do Elaine!!!) should beable to be paid for by the government that lied to us or allowed the lies to be told telling us RAI is harmless and there are no long term affects. Though this is getting organized so quick that just won't happen this time. Probably not ever because then govt. is just as guilty as tobacco companies in all the lies they have told. Okay, enough said on this topic for me unless others would like any info to begin writing the *powers that be*, if so you can write me. *HUGZ* to all, Jody Elaine, I loved your note LOL...from the left eh? <grin> ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi Elaine- I noticed that that was a government report. All I wanted to do was point out the other side that you don't and never will see reported by CNN. And I never ever believe anything that Clinton says. Ah well! Those doctors have too much money anyways : ) Over 19 emergency rooms have been closed in California because of unfunded federal government mandates. They couldn't afford to keep them open any longer. This lack of emergency rooms is now causing a bit of a crisis here since the ones that are still operating are overcrowded and staffed by exhausted medical workers. I just don't like the government meddling in affairs where it's unrealistic to expect all situations to be uniform. It's too far removed from the situations that occur locally. I'm also seeing too many crazy things happening now in the name of political correctness. Like I said. I don't like HMOs either. If I wouldn't have had an HMO when I was first diagnosed with Graves', I'd probably still have a thyroid gland. So they haven't done me any favors. I don't want administrators in control of medicine. I don't want government officials in control of medicine. I want doctors acting in the patient's best interest in control of medicine (which ultimately means the patient is in control). And if they can figure out a way to do that using any system, I'll be a happy camper. I'm now one of those evil Republicans that drives a SUV (we bought it after a few close calls with cars in the foothills who were on the wrong side of the road-we didn't feel we deserved to die because they didn't know how to drive). I was a lifelong Democrat until I voted for Clinton in 92. That changed me faster in a few months than any of my few Republican friends (most of our friends were and are Democrat) had been able to do in the 12 years prior to that. Now it's politically incorrect to own a SUV. Never mind that we use it out in the back pasture. I should have an equal opportunity to be injured by the driver that strays onto my side of the road. I'm still shaking my head over that one. Hey Jean! Help me here. Is this incendiary talk? Take care, ETM wrote: > Today's headline would indicate that US government programs are working. If > the url splits, please copy all of it into your browser. It is an > interesting article. > > http://cnn.com/2000/ALLPOLITICS/stories/03/30/socsec.medicare/index.html > > Elaine > > Researching Bohemian Surnames > S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A > > Re: Help with medication > > > > > > > >>I am a widow on widow's social security and paying $250 a month for > an > > > > individual HMO subscription without prescription benefits. > > > > > > > > 'Scuse the ignorant Australian here, but what does that $250 cover? I > > > can't > > > > believe how much health-care costs over there. (I assume you're in > US?) > > > > > > > > Here we pay a percentage off our wages (I think it's 3%) and that > covers > > > > anybody for anything in a public hospital - with no charge. There are > > > > longer waitings lists to get in for anything non-urgent, though, and > you > > > > don't get a choice of doctor, or a private room. For example, my PTU > cost > > > > $10 for 200 tablets and I thought that was expensive! > > > > > > > > We pay private health insurance (about $90 a month - which is about > $50 > > > your > > > > money - on top of the 3% off our wages) and we get to choose our > doctor, > > > no > > > > waiting lists and you get a private hospital (much better facilities). > > > > > > > > Gea > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > > > > 1. Fill in the brief application > > > > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > > > > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > > > > Apply NOW! > > > > http://click./1/975/3/_/585824/_/954453684/ > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------- > > > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is > not > > > intended to replace expert medical care. > > > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > > > ---------------------------------------- > > > > > > > > > > ------------------------------------- > > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not > intended to replace expert medical care. > > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > > ---------------------------------------- > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! > > 1. Fill in the brief application > > 2. Receive approval decision within 30 seconds > > 3. Get rates as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR > > Apply NOW! > > http://click./1/2646/3/_/585824/_/954544319/ > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > > > ------------------------------------- > > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not > intended to replace expert medical care. > > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > > ---------------------------------------- > > > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi Jody- I agree with everything you said and know that every word is true. And be it known, I only had a blood test through my HMO 1 time/year even though I had GD. I hate HMOs with a passion! I just want us to be cautious about letting government control healthcare. And I have been very vocal about what's wrong about HMOs in many past posts and will continue to do so. But I don't want us to irreversibly rush into another system because of it. The government denies payment too but we don't hear about it. Take care, Jody Spitale wrote: > , > I don't disagree with all that you are saying but personally think that > *someone* else needs to be monitoring the Health Care Industry, ie. > insurance companies...maybe not government (I really hate the thought of > government being *big brother* anymore than they already are in our lives) > but with some kind of monitoring insurance companies could not be playing > the games they play...I am glad that a bill is going forward that allows > patients to take action against their HMO's if they are denied a benefit, > especially in a life or death situation. > It irks the hell out of me when I hear and HMO bureaucrat has denied someone > treatment that a patients DR. says they must have when this insurance person > has no medical background are is just looking at the bottom line of > cost...never mind that maybe this person is 35 years old, 3 kids and without > this particular treatment they are going to die. > > Also I have read a lot and seen a lot of news shows about the *kickbacks* > (for lack of a better word) that some drs. are receiving from some insurance > companies for " keeping their costs down " by not ordering testing, > treatments, trying alternatives etc. And like it or not that IS happening > all over this country. > > When we were in the HMO where my husband works, we got blood work once a > year...I got it twice a year cause of GD...now we opted for a different plan > with the company (they offer 4 different plans) I see a HUGE difference with > this plan...I get in whenever I want to, I call to get my bloodwork ordered > when *I* feel I need it, just a whole different attitude and I believe it is > because of the different plan. > > Again...I don't know what the answers are but I do believe that a regulatory > committee in the insurance company that is meant to watch out for the > consumer rather than them...and having alternatives to fall back on when an > HMO denies one has to be accomlished. > > Just my thoughts. > *HUGZ* to all > Jody > ______________________________________________________ > Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > LOW RATE, NO WAIT! > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! Get rates > as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR and no hidden fees. > Apply NOW! > http://click./1/2122/3/_/585824/_/954551645/ > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 I am not getting into this at all <grin>. I have gotten way too old to fend off new attacks that I am a pinko or red commie (been there, done that before) <lots and lots of laughter from a 1960's East Coast Big City Left-Over Liberal>. Hugs, Elaine Researching Bohemian Surnames S L E P I C K A and H R U S K A Re: Help with medication > Hi Elaine- > > I noticed that that was a government report. All I wanted to do was point out the other side that you don't and > never will see reported by CNN. And I never ever believe anything that Clinton says. > <snip> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 31, 2000 Report Share Posted March 31, 2000 Hi Jody- You don't know California. We have a huge indigent population and all the 6 figure administrators in the world can't make up for the cost it takes to care for them which is required by law in all emergency rooms. This huge indigent population is not the case in most other states but it is here. That's why the closure rate is so high here and everyone that works in these hospitals knows it. There is no doubt that there is a problem with profit motives but, in this case, that's not why the closures are happening. I can't tell you how many people without insurance my husband cares for. It probably approaches half of all patients he sees. And add that to the indigent alcoholics that come in up to three times/day for years. It's a problem that won't be cured by lowering anybody's salary and you don't hear about it (except by hearing the propaganda that they aren't getting cared for). There aren't enough people that make enough that would make the difference. I can only tell you what is really happening but you'll never see it anywhere because it goes against a prescribed agenda. Emergency care is very expensive. And it should be when the care involved is considered. If the government wants to remove the " care of all " edict and open clinics of it's own to care for these people, it's fine with me. But this is a great way of getting care for everyone while incurring no cost. And at the same time moving us towards national healthcare. A tremendous piece of the American economy. I don't know why it's so difficult to believe that there are other problems out there besides the ones that we're allowed to see. I wasn't allowed to see any of the downsides to RAI when I had it. But they were there just the same. To change things? We all get involved. Squawk at employers about what your getting and talk them into changing to a more patient friendly HMO (they're out there). Things are moving now since doctors have unionized under the AMA. Things will change if we all speak up. Once government does it for us there's no going back. That is power that they will not relinquish. It's definitely not popular to say do it on your own nowadays. It requires more effort than many people are ready to give. But I believe that if we all do that regarding healthcare, things will change. Take care, Jody Spitale wrote: > Hi , > I had to respond to your last message...A Republican YIKES!!! LOL <teasing > you> > > It isn't government that is closing hospital ER's, it is mismanagement on > the parts of the high administrations in hospitals with their 6 figure > salaries to push papers and find a way out of the financial straights they > now find themselves in. They earn the high salaries for pushing paperwork > around and making bureaucratic decisions (someone has to do it I guess) but > it is on the backs of the drs. nurses, janitors, aids, cafeteria people in > these institution. But it just isn't in hospitals this goes on...it is in > government, in insurance companies, in pharamcuetical (sp) companies, in > furniture factories...it is all over...that is the way it works... > > I don't want to see socialized medicine here at all...but in a way through > HMO's it is on its way...not the way of *everyone* having coverage that > needs it...but even in Canada *full* coverage for all is a myth from what > friends of mine have been telling me about their situation. HMO's that > determine who can have what procedure and when is how medicine is done in > Canada (with the exception of urgent care) Our friend there has been on a > waiting list for 14 mos. now while an aortic anyeruism (sp?) has gone from > 4.3cm to 7.9 cm. and they still don't know when they will do anything > (grrrrrr)...] > > I don't know what the answers are to the situation we have here regarding > medical coverage, perscriptions and costs but some for of regulation, if it > has to come from government setting up the regulatory committee then so be > it but regulation has to come, to lower perscription costs, to determine > when an HMO says NO to a procedure whether it is going to be made available > to a patient etc. > There are just to many people from all ages who do not have any coverage, > can not get state aid because the state deems they make to much money to be > eligible...never mind it is a dollar above what they allow at poverty wages, > in a country that is *suppose* to be the biggest player in regards to world > power, medicine and freedoms (and lots more) we are behind the 8-ball in my > opinion. Who knows, maybe it is government that started the bloating and > big business that followed ... or vice versa, it has happened and there are > literally BILLIONS of dollars wasted to cover these costs, get meds paid > for, and get research dollars where they are needed...the only way to change > all of that is to change who sits in Washington (but please not Bush > *shiver*), to have a regulatory committee that allows drs. to be drs. and do > what all of the years of training have prepared them for at all > levels....without government involvement, how would you purpose to get > things accomplished? I'm serious I really want to know your ideas. > > *HUGZ* > Jody > > PS Sorry if this topic is boring anyone...will take the next one private > ______________________________________________________ > Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > LOW RATE, NO WAIT! > Get a NextCard Visa, in 30 seconds! Get rates > as low as 2.9% Intro or 9.9% Fixed APR and no hidden fees. > Learn more at: > http://click./1/937/3/_/585824/_/954556354/ > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > ------------------------------------- > The Graves' list is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace expert medical care. > Please consult your doctor before changing or trying new treatments. > ---------------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 1, 2000 Report Share Posted April 1, 2000 Wow...didn't know my question about where to go for medication help would start all this. Sorry bout that y'all Jewls Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 1, 2000 Report Share Posted April 1, 2000 Wow...didn't know my question about where to go for medication help would start all this. Sorry bout that y'all Jewls Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 1, 2000 Report Share Posted April 1, 2000 Awwwww Jewls, Don't be sorry, was a great conversation and maybe it will encourage some in our group and in others to start writing letters so that people like you, who have to take medications and don't have the coverage to beable to afford them without causing other financial strains which tend to stress us out severly at times which then can make our symptoms worse and aggravate this disease. It is a viscious circle and it ticks me off that you have to deal with this. I think the writing that was going on over this issue was good for both and I who have our own frustrations over this issue, it let us vent, and maybe got others to think. I hope you are having some luck with contacting someone who can help alleviate the financial burden you have been forced into. Are you feeling any better at least? BTW, something you may want to think about that should be offered to you at most pharmacies (I have had to do this in the past myself) is buy your meds one week at a time so you don't have to pay so much at a time. Breaking it up into weeks may be a little easier on the wallet. *HUGZ* Jody ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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