Getting medical attention without insurance and need advice

So I'm sick of worrying about my health 24/7 and I've been having a lot of trouble getting health coverage. I'm going to a doctor without insurance and I need to figure out how to minimize debts.

My symptoms over the last few months have been:
- shortness of breath (worse when it's hot out)
- palpitations
- chest tightness, with mild pain at times
- and on rare occasions dizziness and muscle weakness

So I'm wondering if I should just go to a heart specialist since that's my biggest fear, or if I should go to a general doctor. I don't want to go to another discount walk-in because last time they seemed to be in a rush for me to leave and didn't seem to take me seriously. Would a specialist be way more expensive?

How do I minimized costs in general? Would paying in cash help? Do places tend to give discounts if you ask specifically?

And does anyone know of ways I can apply for insurance currently (the marketplace is closed until November)? I have no official job, and no diagnosed disabilities, so currently I don't qualify for special enrollment, and I'm having trouble applying for Medicaid.

(It should probably be added that I'm American lol)

Post Edited (char1243) : 8/12/2015 11:52:50 AM (GMT-6)

THE HAPPY TURTLE said...
HEY CHAR oops caps. that's my vision issues. well, it would probably more cost effective to see a cardiologist. since i am not in America, it is hard for me to help, although i would talk to your hospital's cardio department to inquire about cardiologists that see patients on a sliding fee scale. why mess about and pay a stack in charges, when ya just go to the top and pay 1 price and know for sure. as us Aussie's say 'why beat around the bush'. take care.

I've definitely been struggling to navigate the American health care system. A few people in different places I've asked have just told me to go out of country for testing and treatment lol...

Thanks for the advice though!

It is madness indeed. I'm not in the USA, but I've seen so many horror stories where people are just left to deal with an illness because they can't afford treatment. I can't understand the system.

In the UK we have the NHS, and as much as I hate our Government I am utterly thankful for our healthcare system. I had Cancer 2 years ago and got treated very quickly from diagnosis.

I remember watching the documentary Sicko. It showed how ill people couldn't get treatment in the US. He took them to Canada and managed to get them treated. You can see it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CDLoyXarXY

Maybe that's an option? As I said in the last post you can come to the UK and get treatment. Even as a tourist/visitor. I know this isn't ideal at all, but as a last option it's a possibility.

Hope you feel better soon bud :)