[kk06521]

#1018149

Yes i am very concerned I found out that i had Graves Disease back in march of 2010. At that time i did not have any insurance i found out by going to the hospital for a rapid heart rate "150". I was dignosed, they referred me to a specialist since no insurance and the state denied me more than once. " i have no job and live with my parents" dont know why they would deny me. So my visit was 150 each visit plus add. chargers for test ect. I was only finical able to see him once. He said that i needed surgey asap. Prescribed me medicine that i still take everyday. I havent been to a real doctor yet just a free clinic where they check blood pressure and blood test notthing more. This january i got put back on my parents insurance since of the new law they passed. But they bad news is i cant use it for a year because i am a pre excisting. The doctors are saying i need surgey asap they medicine is working but not like its supposed to. It brings my heart rate down but about every 2 months i am back at the hospital because of a high heart rate. I am so lost and stuck on what other actions i need to do. 0

[Bobbi]

#1062951

I don’t know quite how to help. Other than to provide a bit of encouragement — slight as it might be. If you are taking an antithyroid medication (methimazole or PTU), it is designed to control the production of thyroid hormone. Taking just the right amount matters, so it is important to take it as directed all the time, AND get those periodic blood tests. It may not be working perfectly, which you seem to indicate, but if it IS working somewhat to control your levels, you are better off than you would be without it. The best thing you might be able to do for yourself for the time being is precisely what it sounds like you are doing: taking the meds and getting the blood work done.

The blood tests as the free clinic are probably looking at whether or not you are on the correct dose of the meds, and possibly are looking at things like white cell count or liver function. But if they are looking at the thyroid numbers too (to tell if you are on the correct dose), then adjustments would be made to the meds if that were necessary. Again, that is a good thing that is happening.

Unfortunately, our health care system is not designed to help people like you yet. And using the emergency room, as necessary, while wildly expensive for the taxpayers, may be your only safety net until your parents’ insurance kicks in. USE IT if you need it. Some states are talking about doing away with even that bit of the safety net.

In the meantime, do what you can to keep yourself healthy — or healthiER. Make sure you get appropriate rest, appropriate nutrition. Anything you can do right now to improve your health is going to be a big help right now. Your body, for example, doesn’t need empty calories — it needs nutritious calories — fruits, vegetables, protein. Anything you can do to help yourself now will pay off in the long run.

[Kimberly]

#1062952

Hello – I just have a couple of quick things to add….

Is there a medical school near where you live? Most med schools have low-cost or no-cost clinics that can assist patients who have financial need. And perhaps they might have access to resources that could help connect you with a surgeon.

I’m guessing that it’s the doctors at the free clinic who told you that you needed surgery. Have they been able to provide any suggestions for resources? Perhaps if you explain your situation, they might be able to give you some additional suggestions.

Please keep fighting and don’t give up until you can get the treatment that you need — and deserve!

[kk06521]

#1062953

Kimberly,
The only people that they have referred me to was the specialist in my town. But i am going to look into the medical schools and see if they will help me. Thank you guys so much

[snelsen]

#1062954

I wish the very best for you. I realize this is difficult, time consuming and sometimes discouraging. But keep pluggin away for your health. It just has to happen that you receive a steady stream of appropriate dose of medication.
Shirley

[mom2kaipo]

#1062955

hi, all. i’m new here and just reading around for now, but do want to reply to kk. even though the state denied helping you before, and since the pre-existing condition exempts you from help with your parents insurance, go back to the state.

ask to speak to a case-worker and explain your problem in as much detail as you can. try to get a letter from the doctor stating that you need the surgery and why.

also, there’s a chance that the hospital(s) in your area may let you apply for a charity write-off. contact your hospital and ask about it.

good luck and wishing you the best results!

[Author]

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