ANA Discussion Forum
General Category => Insurance => Topic started by: Sue on September 30, 2009, 07:22:01 pm
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Well, wish us luck. My husband's employers had a meeting today with their small staff and told them they could no longer afford to provide health insurance. Some fun, huh? I was just searching around the 'Net and read that if you go 2 months without coverage, then the next insurance that you get will likely not cover you for pre-existing conditions. Hopefully we can avoid this little problem. I am thinking of moving to Uruguay. :P
Sue in Vancouver, USA
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Sue .....
Unfortunately what you found out today is becoming all too familiar across our land. My thoughts and prayers as you find alternate health insurance.
Not for this to become political, but this just reinforces the need to see that all people have the health insurance coverage they need, not just the wealthy or fully employed.
Clarice
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Sue,
So sorry :'( You can always come live with me in Canada. I'm less than an hour to Buffalo. I'll even get you a referral to my specialist, who I am seeing in a few hours.
Take care my friend :-*
Anne Marie
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I am all to familiar with that. I am so sorry. I hope y'all are able to figure it out.
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Thanks guys. I'd love to meet any 65 y.o. male and a 63 y.o. female who don't have ANY pre-existing conditions. It would be a miracle. We have done okay with our lives up until now. Now it's fast going to hell in a hand basket.
Yep...may have to move to the other Vancouver!!
Sue in Vancouver USA
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Sue,
I'm at a loss... and Uraguay isn't the place to go... it's England..... :)
I'm so so sorry to hear this news. Does WA state have any kind of state-run plan? If your husband is 65, can Medicare help?
Oy.
I wish I could offer more than my usual hugglez and thoughts and love.
xoxoxo
Phyl
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Sue,
My husband was fired from his job on August 15, 2009. He had called out because his blood sugar was high that morning. He is diabetic. He went to the doctor and went back to work the next morning against doctor's orders. His boss called him in and fired him. They had terminated our insurance the day before. Cobra was cost prohibitive. I have Part A Medicare and thought I could sign up for Part B and D. I was told at the time I was given Part A, that I didn't need Part B and D because I had insurance through my husband's employer. Fortunately, I kept the letter from the local Social Security office attesting to that fact. As of today I have Part A and Part D. I am still fighting for Part B. I am told that I can sign up for it in January and it will be effective July 1, 2010.
Insurance companies need some kind of control and quickly, because in my opinion, they are out of control. It is totally not in our budget to pay the $1245.00 a month for crappy Cobra coverage and then the outrageous co pays that go along with it. My meds and doctor appointments for one month without insurance are over $2000. With insurance it was $853.00.
I was turned down by eighteen insurance companies, as was my husband because of preexisting illness and "conditions"! Small companies can no longer afford to provide coverage for their employees and it is certainly not affordable for individuals to get it on their own.
I will keep you in my prayers, Sue, that you find coverage for you and your husband.
Brenda
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Sue -
don't move to Uruguay - we'd miss you! :(
I hope things work out for you; keeping my fingers crossed.
Jan
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Sue:
I am so sorry you and your husband are having to go throug this. You will be in all of our thoughts and prayers for a solution to this.
Grace
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Sue,
That is just awful! They certainly need to do something about this insurance debacle soon or we’ll all be moving to ___________ (fill in your preference). Rich and I will be joining the ranks of the unemployed/uninsured as our company announced they are moving to Mexico next summer! God help us all!
I certainly hope things work out okay for you in the end and sorry you have this added stress to have to deal with!
Scarlett
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If you can't get onto Medicare, maybe you can move to Oregon and get on the Oregon Health Plan. It worked well for Greg M. And Oregon is a little closer than Uruguay. Plus we have a Portland ANA group. :)
Seriously, I hope something works out.
Steve
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Times like this I am happy to be living in Canada...Pharmacy just delivered the medicals supplies (free) for the visiting nurse (free and comes mon, wed fri) to change my dressing...This is one thing my late hubby liked about living in Canada...my doc only charged him $25.00 CDN to see him and that was at a time the US $ was woth $1.59 to our CDN $....
JO
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Yeah, this stinks. Thanks for your words of wisdom and kind thoughts!! I was reading about the top places to retire to for cheap living,and Ecuador, Mexico, Uruguay, and Panama top the list. Ecuador and Panama are out as far as I am concerned because the humidity would kill me off, Mexico is kinda dicey because of their out of control crime wave, although I'm sure there are safe havens here and there, and so that left Uruguay! :D It actually sounds quite lovely in Punta del Este. Of course, speaking Spanish would probably be of value, and I know enough to order lunch, so might be a problem! ha
Anyway.....it'll all work out somehow. I hope.
Keep on truckin', as they used to say.
Sue in Vancouver, USA (for now...)
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Sue ~
Unfortunately, I'm late to this thread but I still wanted to offer my sympathy on the unexpected loss of your medical insurance. I realize this is is a serious problem for many and not to be taken lightly. I won't digress into a discussion on the politically-tainted pros and cons of 'single-payer' (government-run) medical insurance, which I heartily oppose, but I can certainly agree that the current system needs 'reform'.
Although many countries around the world - including Uruguay - do have some form of government-run medical insurance/systems, they're often expensive (high taxes) and/or inefficient and below the kind of medical care Americans are used to having. 'Private' (non-government-administered) medical care is usually available - for a price, as in the U.K. Still, South American countries such as Uruguay are quite temperate and your money would probably go farther. Speaking Spanish would make it ever easier. For me and my family (who are far from wealthy) - I think we'll take our chances here in the U.S.A.
Jim
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Sue and Brenda,
My heart goes out to you and I hope that you are able to find some affordable coverage soon. Thinking of facing the ongoing medical needs associated with an AN, as well as whatever else may happen, without health insurance or accessible health care is a great concern to me. My husband was relatively healthy and thought he needed a hearing aid. You all know the story, he needed brain surgery! His surgery and recovery was complicated and the bills are approaching $300,000. We are very lucky to have good coverage through Ken's employer, but what about those who don't. I don't think that most people with the security ( although who knows for how long) of medical insurance can begin to understand the situation of those who don't have access to decent health care because they can't afford it. It is sad to realize that many Americans don't have any healthcare, so national healthcare would be a huge improvement to their lives.
Mandy
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Well, there is a solution that might be possible, but not something my husband wants. He really liked working for this company and they were doing great, until the recession finally got them in a bind, and at age 65 with a year to go to full retirement, he was hoping to finish out his career with them. However, he is well liked and respected in the floor covering community in Portland and if he extended feelers, he might be asked to join another company. However, they are all feeling the pinch, and as much as these other companies would like to have him, there might not be a job opening at this time. We'll have to talk about that. With our pre-exisiting conditions, not having continuing coverage scares me to death. We won't ever get insurance. I don't know how that works once I'm on medicare and have to get a supplemental insurance. Would they deny me, too?
I was talking to Lorenzo, who used to come on here, and he lives in Ireland. I told him about this and he was shocked about the pre-existing conditions problem. He said it was against the law in Ireland to do that. I told him that was one of the things President Obama is working on. I also said I'd probably be 110 before all of this insurance hoopla is settled by Congress, if it ever is.
Really, I'm just teasing about Uruguay. Sounds like a lovely place to visit, but I would be scared to death to move so far from home. With my luck, quiet, peaceful Uruguay would, at that moment, decide to have a major military upheaval. I'd be more inclined to go north to Canada, if it ever came to that. Which I'm sure it won't. Of course if we decide we have to move to Canada, that would be when they would change their policy and not allow all of these uninsured Americans into their country to further burden their health care system, thereby making native Canadians wait longer for their care. We'd be run out of town on a rail. ;) You know how wild and crazy those Canadians are!! ;D Washington state has some kind of insurance thing that I was looking at yesterday. You have to show them you've been denied and they might have some kind of emergency coverage available. It's a thought.
Never thought we'd be a part of the current political situation. And if "they" are going to reform our health care mess, somebody better hurry, because there are a lot of folks in trouble.
Sue in Vancouver, USA (currently!)
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Sue,
Our problem was that my husband's former company terminated the insurance coverage a couple of days prior to terminating him. We were offered Cobra at $1246.00 a month. It was cost prohibitive for us and I figured that I would be covered by Medicare since I am disabled. Unfortunately I am not and because our insurance had lapsed no one else will pick me up except for catastrophic illness. I think my copays were already catastrophic!! I figure if I get sick I will go to the county hospital and let the tax payers bail me out. I certainly have bailed out more than my share of illegal aliens!! Medicare won't turn you down for preexisting conditions, but you can only enroll at certain times of the year if you miss it when you apply for Social Security. The Medicare.gov has a lot of information that should answer your questions.
If you can shop for insurance while you still have it, even with existing conditions, you can still get it, even though it may be a little higher than "normal". I am keeping you and your husband in my prayers.
Hugs,
Brenda
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Thank you, Brenda!
Sue
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I think all your positive thoughts are working. Bill's boss said that she was "re-thinking" the insurance decision. Keep sending positive vibes, guys, I think it's working! :)
Sue in Vancouver USA
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Sue,
That is super news!! I'll keeping sending positive thoughts and prayers your way as I know will the rest of the crew! Score one for the little guys!! ;D Where's the poem that goes with this positive news???
Brenda
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Hmmmm, I'll have to think on that!! :D
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I'm confused, Brenda...when I got my disability claim finally approved after 5 years, I was automatically put on Medicare within 6 months, Both part A and B and then I immediately signed up for part D which is the prescription drug plan. Why didn't you get Medicare with your Social Security Disability?
Capt Deb
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So far, our insurance is still okay!! Whew.
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Capt Deb,
My local SS office sent me a letter stating that I did not have to apply for Part B and D because I had existing health insurance. Fortunately I kept the letters and when i was told I would have to wait until the normal signing up time and then wait for six months for Part B to become active and pay for it for six months prior I wrote to my congressman and the big wigs at SS. I sent copies of all of my corresponence. As of October 1 I have Part A and Part D. Because my husband lost his job and we virtually have no income except my SSD for a short time I get reduced drug copays and reduced payment for the Part B. I don't know how long that will last. Not long I hope, I am hoping my husband's new business gets really busy fast, but this is not a good time of the year to start a business! I pray a lot!!
Brenda
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Sue -
I kind of lost track of this thread for a while.
I'm thrilled to see you still have insurance; great news.
Jan
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Hi Sue & Brenda!
Sue - i am so glad you still have insurance, too - thank goodness!
Brenda - I am so sorry about all the insurance issues you have been thru. So i am thinking of you and saying prayers that all works out soon for you & your husband.
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Sue - i was an exchange student in the 70's and spent a year in Uruguay (right after the military coup!) Police riding around in jeeps with M16 rifles - not something this country girl was familiar seeing in my neighborhood.
But, Punta del Este IS beautiful - an area where many people go from Montevideo to vacation in the summer. (I went there once or twice, very nice!)
However, i would have agree with Jim - the medical system is not like ours - we have some of the finest in the world, and you really find that out when you live outside the US, especially in Latin America.
I imagine things are different now than when i was there; but just having a wisdom tooth pulled out was enough for me!
Also - i remember Christmastime and hot weather. That is different if you are originally from Pennsylvania. ;D
Let's all say a prayer for the US healthcare system, so all can have affordable healthcare.
Sue
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I can't remember if I updated this or not, so bare with me. I wrote a letter to the Social Security Administration. I included the correspondence from local SSA office (they are the ones who told me I didn't need Part B or D because I had private insurance). Two weeks later I received a letter stating I had been approved for Part D. A month later I was approved for Part B retroactive to the same date I received my Part A card. I wrote back and stated that the $2400 plus that they wanted wasn't affordable and neither were my drugs on any of the plans. Two weeks ago I received yet another letter stating that I would get supplemental help with my drugs and Part B and D While I appreciate all of the help they want to offer, the drugs are still not affordable and neither are the premiums. I really don't know how people who only receive Social Security can afford to live (which I am presently one of them). I can understand the dog food and taking your meds on a limited basis.
We decorated our home this year. It will be our last Christmas in this house. Taxes went up by 20%, utilities went up by 15% and medical care went up by 60%. Our home value went down by 26%. The President's Making Homes Affordable doesn't help us because my SSD isn't high enough! What a double edged sword. I am not bitter. I am just incredibly sad, along with so many others.
God's Blessings and Hugs to all,
Brenda
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Brenda .....
..... really do not know what to say ..... life is not fair at many points. So glad you posted what is going on in your life .....
You continue in my thoughts and prayers for a realistic and acceptable solution to the dilemma you are facing.
Clarice
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Brenda ~
Your concise summation of the financial difficulties you're facing is unsettling. Unfortunately, the negative national (and global) economic situation is slowly but surely eroding everyone's lifestyle to some extent. I'm truly sorry to learn that it is having such a devastating impact on your ability to stay in your home but with the increase in taxes and costs that you've outlined, I can see why you're in a bind, just as many others are. My heart goes out to you - and you'll be in my prayers. I admire your refusal to succumb to bitterness....that shows character. Stay strong.
Jim
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Jim,
My Momma told me a very long time ago that rough spots in the road build character. So I am quite a character. I have so much to be thankful for that this hiccup isn't gonna get me down. I survived brain surgery and got to meet all of you if only in cyber space, and making friends and helping one another through good thoughts and prayers is so much more important to me than a house of brick and stone. It is what is inside that counts.
Thank you all for your prayers and good thoughts.
On a very positive and wonderful note, Chris stood today with the help of the therapist and only for a minute, but he added a couple of more words to his speech and told his wife "love you much" Most important words to hear and say.
So to all of you love you much.
Brenda
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Wow, who would have guessed that somebody on here has been to Punta del Este, a place I knew nothing about until I saw it on television. Now really, folks, I am not going to move to S. America!! At least not yet! :) However, I put it on my list of vacation spots to see when I win the lottery. Hopefully we will be able to stay in our home, but like Brendalu, things happen and change and it could all end in an instant. My heart goes out to you Brenda. I'm so sorry you are having such difficulty. I, too, have had to put things off. It was time for my MRI in August and I told them I couldn't do it then, because our insurance has changed. Our deductible is so high, we'd have to pay for the whole thing. The gal on the phone was incredulous....but THIS is your BRAIN, she said. I said, well, I can't pay for it, I don't care if it's my brain or not. So I get a letter from the doctor advising me to get in there for the MRI, but not telling me how to pay for it. I talked to the financial office and there are options, so maybe we can work something out soon.
Sue in Vancouver USA
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Thank you, Sue. We have decided to do a deed in lieu. It will affect our credit the least, but trying to find an affordable place to rent is not an easy task. We have a three room tent that is looking mighty good right about now. I told my kids, one of whom, has three kids to support and also lost her job, that we are all going to pretend that we aren't going to be in our homes much past the new year, and we are gonna have an old fashioned Christmas that is full of love and not gifts. We are each giving something we cherish (that we have owned for a long time, be it a piece of jewelry or a picture)and also giving each person, in writing our favorite memory. I think it sounds like a wonderful gift.
We did get a Christmas Miracle in the form of Chris, who had a stroke while having brain surgery for an aneurysm. All of the prayers from all of you have caused what all of the doctors agree is a true miracle. Chris will be going home on Tuesday of next week. He will have six months of out patient therapy, but the doctors really feel he will be back one hundred per cent in less than six weeks! This is a man who wasn't give even an even chance of surviving the surgery. Now who wants to tell me prayers don't work? I will never, ever believe that!!
Sue, I hope things work out for you to be able to have your MRI. I was lucky, I had mine just before I no longer had insurance. The deductibles for Medicare are too high to be able to afford anymore and with the meds that I take I reach the cap on mine in March and then they expect me to pay 100% until I have paid $4300............ I wonder who comes up with the affordability factor on all of this? I will keep you in my prayers.
Hugs,
Brenda
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Brenda .....
we are all going to pretend that we aren't going to be in our homes much past the new year, and we are gonna have an old fashioned Christmas that is full of love and not gifts. We are each giving something we cherish (that we have owned for a long time, be it a piece of jewelry or a picture)and also giving each person, in writing our favorite memory. I think it sounds like a wonderful gift.
What a beautiful idea for all of us! My husband and I have reached that tender age where we are trying to eliminate buying or receiving more unneeded "stuff." ...... but family heirlooms or memories remain very important to us. Have to suggest this for next year.
So glad Chris is doing so well. What a special Christmas present that is!!
Thoughts and prayers for answers and solutions to your economic woes.
Clarice
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Thank you, Clarice! I hope you and your family have a very Wonderful Christmas!
Brenda
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We may have to bring back the "commune" idea and just start up our own AN Village.
Great Christmas idea, Brendalu. Very touching.
Sue in Vancouver, USA
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Brenda,
I think you and your family are really celebrating the "TRUE" meaning of Christmas. Just delighted to hear Chris is being sprung from the 5 Star hotel he has been visiting. Christmas miracles do happen and Chris is one. Thank God and may He continue to bless you and yours.
Anne Marie
PS Sue I like the AN Village and I would like an ocean view please.