Input on financial experiences?

I have been on the Copaxone now for just over two weeks. I am doing great, but we just got some news that hurt a lot more than the shots do. Our insurance covers the medication completely, but only after a $2000 deductible each year. I guess when I look at the total cost of this medication for a year, $2000 isn't that much but we still don't have it. On top of that, my husband has a condition which also requires an injectable medication. He has a $2000 deductible too. So wham...$4000 due. Every year.

We just have no idea what we are going to do. We are still trying to pay off my husbands deductible from last year, we couldn't seem to get on top of that. And now it's doubled. We plan to apply for financial assistance from the insurance company, but my hopes are not too high. You know...insurance companies. I could think of a few four letter words to describe them.

Has anyone else run into problems like this with their medications and were you able to find any resources that were helpful?

Thanks everyone. As always, I appreciate you sharing your experiences!

Hey Littlechina

I'm so sorry. it just stinks that u've gotten this slam after all u've already been thru. I too have ins probs, so can completely understand u'r situation. I"m not dx'd so can't really speak intelligently on this subj, but as i understand there is assistance avail thru the CRAB's med distributors. Also, tho, there are a few other sources like Together Rx and others who help by giving u discounts on u'r meds. I use the one i mentioned here and it's pretty helpful. I do have prescription ins, but it's a discount plan thru my ins policy and discounts less than this outside source. If u have a regular coverage plan u can still use this type of service because it discounts if u'r either at u'r coverage limit or if ur part is just to costly for u. There are others avail and i'm sure others will be along to offer info on those they are aware of, but for now i hope this is helpful. Don't give up...help is out there and should be for both u and u'r husband's meds. Take care and let us know how this turns out for u.

Wow guys, thanks for the responses! I will definitely look into all your suggestions.

MSBlessed:

I did try my tummy! It wasn't so bad. I have now tried all of the recommended spots, except the arms. I am not doing the arms unless I have no other choice. My husband is still sticking me, but I have my auto injector on the way!! I think this will make it lots easier for me since I won't ever have to see the needle. I'm excited, I can't wait.

Also...what is Kaiser insurance? Is that a plan that is local to your area (where are you, by the way?) or is that something anyone can get? Is it a private plan or a group plan? $600 a year sounds phenomenal to me!!

China,

Our insurance offers a "flexible spending account". This is for medical costs. We get reimbursed up to $2000 a year for medical bills. I believe this includes rx. My hubby just submitted $800 worth of bills that we haven't paid yet and we received a check and paid the bills. The account can also be used for our deductible which is $500 each. A certain amount gets taken out of each check through out the year. This way we are not paying the $2000 all at once. It has been very helpful so far!

Just another idea for you to look into.

Lysha

Hey Littlechina

Forgot something...imagine that! When i set out to apply for the discount on my meds (from the manufacturer) i submitted an app thru my doc's office. It was then that i found out they have someone on staff who actually helps u in that sort of thing. They can help u apply to the right plans for the particuliar meds u'r trying to get. Just another avenue u may want to persue.