I have two ideas for you, as I am in a somewhat similar situation (I have health insurance, but does not pay for allergy-related services).
1) Negotiate reduced rates with doctor/hospital for cash/in advance payment
2) Look for clinical trials in your area
I was told (have not tested this yet), that if you call the doctor's office (or lab, hospital, etc), and ask them:
1) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in cash?
2) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in advance?
3) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in cash and in advance?
The sad truth is, even individuals WITH health insurance do not have adequate coverage, and many of these people are paying their doctor bills, hospital bills, etc, "out-of-pocket" anyways. The health insurance companies negotiate with these services to lower the costs by about ONE THIRD! So, consumers are now doing the same thing (probably will not get close to 1/3 off, but you can negotiate a reduced rate). Perhaps your friend can cover the cost if it is considerably less (if she is able to pay in cash and in advance, that is).
I've heard of free clinics for some services (namely, STD and pregnancy-related), but unsure about other conditions. We'll keep searching for you!
My last thought: I'll look to see if there are any clinical trials in your area. You can go to www.medlineplus.gov to find clinical trials, that may offer some treatment (there is also the likelihood that your friend would be in the "no treatment" group, but would receive some basic doctor examinations for free).
Comment Reply
I have two ideas for you, as I am in a somewhat similar situation (I have health insurance, but does not pay for allergy-related services).
1) Negotiate reduced rates with doctor/hospital for cash/in advance payment
2) Look for clinical trials in your area
I was told (have not tested this yet), that if you call the doctor's office (or lab, hospital, etc), and ask them:
1) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in cash?
2) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in advance?
3) What are your negotiated fees if I pay in cash and in advance?
The sad truth is, even individuals WITH health insurance do not have adequate coverage, and many of these people are paying their doctor bills, hospital bills, etc, "out-of-pocket" anyways. The health insurance companies negotiate with these services to lower the costs by about ONE THIRD! So, consumers are now doing the same thing (probably will not get close to 1/3 off, but you can negotiate a reduced rate). Perhaps your friend can cover the cost if it is considerably less (if she is able to pay in cash and in advance, that is).
I've heard of free clinics for some services (namely, STD and pregnancy-related), but unsure about other conditions. We'll keep searching for you!
My last thought: I'll look to see if there are any clinical trials in your area. You can go to www.medlineplus.gov to find clinical trials, that may offer some treatment (there is also the likelihood that your friend would be in the "no treatment" group, but would receive some basic doctor examinations for free).
February 1, 2009 - 8:10pmThis Comment
Reply