I was just dxd with Lyme and based on research and talking to a friend with it, I see the importance of getting an LLMD. Also I am pretty sure I have had it undxd for about 24 years
I know there is much info on help with financial info and have not been through all of it yet...so much info, so little time
So far, I have not found an LLMD who accepts my insurance (or any for that matter) except one I was warned to stay away from.
RIght now we are financially strapped... mostly due to not being able to work much and defaulting on credit cards, behind on mortgage, struggling to survive and about to file BK.
Is my only option to pay out of pocket for tx and rx?
Any recommendations or suggestions?
I have no money to pay out of pocket, I can barely afford milk sometimes. Our cars are old, our bills are the basics, my husband works 2 jobs and I have not been able to contribute to income much for over 3 years. Was a SAHM working part time here and there.
We cannot sell house b/c owe more than it is worth.
Please help. I am scared and worried and at a crossroads.
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
michele,
the best info is what i referred you to earlier FINANCIAL BURDENS that i gave you specific info on.
that will tell you what types of things are available. best to print it off.
yes, it is alot but you need to see the complete picture you are dealing with so you will make the most informed decision based upon what you read and what you can afford.
can any rich family members/friends help you?
Posted by MissMari (Member # 11274) on :
Hi Michele,
I'm kind of in a similar position, so I know what you mean about the word "scared".
Only difference is, I'm single, taking care of my 81-year-old aunt (who is on SSI).
I have been misdiagnosed since (I believe) 1995. I was a VERY healthy person before that, and it's almost like I can pinpoint the DAY I went downhill.
The day I had a huge round rash on my arm, after living in my relatives' house in rural PA.
I managed (sometimes well, sometimes badly) since then. Right now I have been unemployed since July 08, after a temporary disability in Feb 08.
It is only NEXT WEEK that I will finally be seeing an (excellent) LLMD.
Yes --- no insurance. Doesnt matter to me since I havent had insurance since last March (couldnt afford COBRA).
I am behind on my rent, car payments (had it repo'd in April, had to borrow money to get it back --- Need the car to get my aunt to HER dr appts!), utilities, you name it.
IT IS VERY SCARY. And, at least for me, very humiliating since at one time I had been an ultra-responsible working, healthy person.
I also feel it is so sad to be so sick, and have to worry about financial matters --- which obviously is not helpful in getting better!
I have had to borrow from almost everyone who would give it to me, including the cash I will need for the dr next week.
On the sad side, my relatives basically have stopped speaking to me.
I was turned way from 2 churches (I bring in too much unemployment $$$!).
I havent received a phone call or email from my friends in over a month now.
All I can tell you is you do whatever you have to do for your health. I have realized at this point it is all I have left.
Maybe you could arrange a payment plan with your dr.
You may also be in a better position for social services assistance since you have a family.
You may also qualify for utilities assistance from your state or county.
Also, try contacting any local Lyme support group in your area or state -- they may have information about dealing with these types of issues since many of us are in the same position.
I know what it's like --- every day my (ill) brain tries to juggle what I can and can't do, can and can't pay.
If you want to, PM me if you like.
Mar
Posted by Schelyne (Member # 18920) on :
Thank yo so much for the support and information. I do have an HMO and am used to seeing in-network docs with referrals. It sounds like I just have to find out what my in-network benefits are at this point. This makes me feel a little less stressed. I can handle submitting claims and have already had experience with fighting them from time to time. I certainly do not want to risk the career of a doc that is trying to help us lymies out so now I understand where that no ins thing is coming from. In this area, I am certain to find someone in network. We have great ins, so as long as they can help, I will see what I can do.
Posted by jewels (Member # 18892) on :
I hope you can get the medical services you deserve.
Posted by Meg (Member # 22) on :
Superb post OptiMis Tick, Thank You-!
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
OMT, thanks for detailed instructions; i copied it to my newbie package links so others can use your expertise!! heaps of love to you...
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heaps of love to you...