Re: IVIg and NeuroS? Medical tests and Doctor's right to f...

[Guest guest]

Hi e,

I see you are in the boat that many of us have been in. Between the financial issues and the "will this make a difference" choices in what to have done-- I will say this.

I know that the thought of a spinal tap is one that you'd rather not have to do. It will, however, show them that this is not MS or Lupus or the other auto-immune diseases.

Neurosarc is a diagnosis that they will confirm when they are able to determine that it is not any of the other A.I. diseases.

Now, you mention Medicare Part D. If you still can't afford your medications under this coverage, go to Patient Assistance Programs and type in the name of the meds. It will take you to a list of choices where you can apply for discount or free meds.

Since you have Medicare- Part A & B (medical and hospitalization) you should have the 20% copay after Medicare has paid. If this is financially impossible, then look into getting MediCaid as your secondary insurance. This is the State Plan for those who are financially challenged. This would eliminate your deductibles, copays and premiums-- or at least significantly discount them.

Can you decide what tests to have run-- of course you can. Your MD's also have a right to tell you either get the tests so they know what they are treating, or "invite" you to find other MD's.

One of the challenges is that if we don't get the tests, and we don't follow up with our appts is that we run the risk of someone saying that we aren't disabled. Then your SSDI and Medicare go away- and you are seriously screwed.

Also, when you go in and see the MD's-- tell them that you are seriously financially strapped, and ask if they can accept what Medicare pays as payment in full. Legally, they can't waive your deductibles, but they can waive the 20%. When I say legally--- I mean that the Federal rules for them to provide Medicare services REQUIRE they collect the annual deductible of $131.00, as well as the Inpatient Hospital Deductibles.

Those with Medi/Medi coverage don't have to pay these, they are paid by the state coverage. You go to the local County Welfare Offices to apply.

, I totally understand where you are coming from--- but if you have more than one auto-immune problem going on, and if they miss it- then you are putting them at risk, as well as yourself.

With NS, it is easy to develop both encephalitis and meningitis, along with hydrocephalous. These can be treated and balance, fatigue, thought processes can get better. It is the spinal tap that can get them the info they need to help you.

State MediCaid Assistance can go retro for 90 days-- so get started. Maybe some of the bills can be forgiven.

Take care,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.