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Needing Fundoplication surgery but have no insurance...

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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 9/18/2013 12:13 PM (GMT 0)
New here to this site... I've had to deal with GERD for over 20 years...just recently had Endoscopy, and 24HR PH testing done and got results back...most of my acid is alkaline so it's coming from the bile ducts and i do have a hiatal hernia and small duodunal ulcers also....

Dr's recommendation: Option one is open Fundoplication surgery to fix hernia and do Niessen Wrap or
Option two...Gastric bypass surgery which will take care of Gerd and weight issues. Lot's of researching here on the computer in the last week trying to make my choice.

Unfortunately i will not be able to have either right now as the Michigan Adult Benifits Waiver that i am on will not cover inpatient hospitalization and there is no open enrollment for medicade right now either until next March...

It's starting to get overwhelming!!!!!
Posted 9/18/2013 4:31 PM (GMT 0)
Why does he want to do and open method? Has he considered the laproscopic method?

Some hospitals will work with you on the bill if you need surgery and have no insurance. I've been without insurance for over a year now and I've done a special payment schedual with all of my doctors and testings.
Posted 9/18/2013 5:18 PM (GMT 0)
Memulyn,

I am sorry to read of the tough spot your in.  I agree with Joy, talk to the hospital re a payment plan .  If the physician feels this is necessary surgery I feel checking into   a payment plan is the best course to try.  Healthcare without insurance is like construction without power tools.

Most hospitals have ability-to-pay programs but the burden of finding the right hospital is in your lap which makes the whole process anxiety provoking.
  

Stick with us as we are here to support you.

Gentle Hugs,

Kitt

 

Posted 9/18/2013 7:50 PM (GMT 0)
Depending on which state you live (if from the US) some states have medical cards for qualified recipients. IF you don't earn enough income you might qualify. If you talk to the hospital's financial department they should be able to point you in the right direction in terms of medical/financial assistance.

Ian
Posted 9/18/2013 11:52 PM (GMT 0)
I know 2 people that went to a hospital in Mexico for their weight loss surgery, because their insurance would not cover it. They both had the VSG at the same hospital, same surgeon. The hospital stay, surgeon, etc. and 1 week or maybe a little longer recovery in a neighboring hotel were all considerably cheaper than having it performed in the US.

I hope you can find relief while looking for your best options, for you physically and financially.
Posted 9/20/2013 5:21 AM (GMT 0)
Couchtater...The reason behind the Dr.s decision to do the open version instead of Laproscope version is his own personal choice as he does it that way because he likes to be much more thorough and check for appropriate tightness or looseness. Just his opion mind you...he does say clinincs that do them all the time have good results laprascopically he just prefers open.

When it comes to the hospital bill...i have talked with the hospital patient advocate and she says i probably do qualify for the hospital to cover the actual surgery... but it will NOT cover the surgeons fee. That i would have to pay myself and the Doctors office is willing to take payment plan i'm sure... that bill would be over $1000 his receptionist told me.

All in all that is not very much really when it concerns your health...the only problem is i'm unemployed...trying to get my disability...divorced and no income what so ever...I know the first question you will ask is how am i living...(which yes is the first question the advocate asked me...lol)

I live in a family home owned by my 83 year old father.... allthough he charges me no rent he is paying all the utility bills... taxes, insurance...etc. I would of never thought at my age (55) i'd be dependant on a parent still for support and it hurts me deeply that i am... My Social Security Disabilty is before the Appeals Counsil right now and could take up to a year to decide... so i have no alternative.

So needless to say it's just a waiting game all around for me...but i'm not giving up. I know Gods not done with me yet!
Posted 9/20/2013 8:50 PM (GMT 0)
I'm in the same situation. Forty five years old, live with parents, trying to get ssid, no insurance. If it wasn't for pension and LTD I'd be in a terrible fix.
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