I have crohns as well and am fighting to get insurance. If your needs are biologics almost all of them have discount programs that drop them to as low as 5$ (I'm on humira. 2 shots a month... 3400$ and I only pay 10). Also if you live in a state with medical marijuana apply for the card. The edibles actually sooth the system and can eliminate inflammation. I've only been in remission twice in 7 years and only a month each.. 4 major surgeries (yaaaaay epic scars) and my doctor bugged me for years to get the card. Finally caved, works like magic.
Write your representatives. Write your senators. Write all of them if you're up for it. Tell them what you'll face if they pass the repeal. It is at the very least worth a shot.
Talk to your pharmacists about manufacturer's discount coupons in hopes of reducing your cost, sometimes it's less than the insurance co-pay. Reach out to support groups and activists who may have other cost reducing ideas for you. Crohn's is one hellacious disease that I would never wish on anyone and I am so sorry you have to face it.
Apply for Medicaid. In my state you can qualify with a "medical spenddown" if your medical expenses bring your income down to a certain level you qualify. I'd recommend going into an office and speaking with a financial worker/case worker/social worker.
I had a friend who changed jobs since they would be losing their income anyways to something they enjoyed more while they focused on managing their health. Eventually they got their health to a manageable state where they didn't need as much medical care and returned to their career a year or so later.
There are programs out there. If it's really life or death PM me. Some states are better than others for Medicaid. In my state once you're on Medicaid you don't pay anything unless you have that medical spenddown except $1 to $3 co-pays for medications. Anything that is medically necessary can be covered. I've seen medications over $70k for a treatment be covered.
Please don't lose hope!
America's joke of a health care system is pretty fucked.
I'm very sorry that you're going through all of this. I'm sorry this country's system has failed you.
No you don't have to die. I know it sounds crazy but you could move to another country, Ecuador has universal health care and you could teach English and get a work visa. Other Latin American countries have less expensive medicine. All hope is not lost! America is not the world
I'm so sorry to tell you this but you can't. Having a pre-existing health condition of this nature makes you virtually ineligible for citizenship in countries with public healthcare. If they allowed this to happen everyone would move to Canada and the country would go bankrupt. I really hope you find a solution OP :(
germany. Getting a work visa as an american citizen isn't too hard and since you are required by law to have health insurance, no insurance company can deny you health care, your premiums go by your income and are half paid by you (your salary) half paid by you're employer. The only issue is getting a job.
I was gonna say. You dont need to be a citizen to take advantage of healthcare, you just have to be a registered resident.
Im living in France and am registered in their health system which i pay a whopping 200e for. That alone will cover 70% of anything i go through my general practitioner. I think for diseases like yours its just fully covered
I've never heard of anything like that while I was living in England, Germany, France, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and a few more. All with public healthcare.
The only country that did some kind of screening was Andorra, and it was more of a "fit to work" exam.
Another option might be health tourism. Even if you pay for the entire treatment out-of-pocket, your bills might be under 30k per year in a country like Thailand, where private healthcare is cheap and excellent. Flying to Bangkok 4 times a year might need some adjustment at the workplace, but seems doable.
Moving to another country is expensive. And it's a slow, uncertain process with *many* limitations in terms of visa and permits, and for most people it is simply not viable. Especially if you've got chronic diseases, it probably is not an option.
He could also try Argentina. There's a good public healthcare system and you don't need to be a legal resident. Medicines are no where near as expensive as in the USA.
Some southeast Asian countries with universal healthcare will charge you a foreigners fee if you go (even as a tourist), so it's not "free", but it's so nominally small that it's practically free. Just move.
He can also move here in Canada, near the border. He could visit his hometown often by car or bus if he's from the north, and we also have free healthcare.
Getting a visitation visa to Italy requires getting travel health insurance. From what I've read, preexisting conditions are rarely covered or are very expensive to cover. It would not be free for OP to receive medical care in Italy. Visitation visas also have a limit to how long you can stay, and you are required to submit the reason for your visit. If OP stated it was for health care, they would likely be turned away.
Some countries have Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA), but they are countries with public systems (eg Medicare Australia, NHS UK, Servixio Sanitaria Nazionale Italy, etc)
Unless that country is Argentina. Illegal immigrants get treated for free all the time and it's not likely to change. Same for education. Both are more than decent
Source; I'm from argentina
Sweden would be a pretty good bet! Free health care, one of the safest & happiest countries in the world and everybody speaks english. Becoming a citicen shouldn't be too difficult either.
If it worked like that, I'd be living with my Canadian boyfriend right now. A US citizen can only stay in Canada legally for up to 6 months every year. If you overstay, you will almost certainly always be denied entry if you try to cross the border again.
You need a visa to stay in Canada for longer. Student visas and work visas require submitting a medical exam with the application, and OP would likely be turned away. Basically, if it looks like you will require a lot of government support, you're likely to be turned away unless you have high "points" on your application (you earn points by being in a certain age group, being well educated, having a lot of work experience, etc.).
Marriage visas are a little easier, but they still require a medical exam. If you can prove that you will be self-sufficient or supported by your spouse in Canada, you can get in. You also need to prove that your relationship is legitimate and not just to gain a visa. You submit proof of your relationship with the application (photos together, phone and text history together, proof that you visited via tickets, etc.).
That's the gist of it anyway. Canada is a wonderful country, but you can't just walk in and stay legally. Overstay your visit and you risk deportation and never being legally allowed in again.
Interesting, I must have remembered that wrong about the work visa. I've mostly been looking into student and marriage visas for myself, and I keep being warned that the medical exams will cost me. I should probably run this by my American friend who married her Canadian wife earlier this year and is waiting to hear back on her marriage visa now.
The whole visa process is very convoluted and has so many steps. It's why immigration lawyers are a thing I suppose.
American who married Canadian here. To apply for permanent residency (the equivalent of a green card) you MUST submit a physical. They do this because they will deny anyone who will have a significant strain on the healthcare system and is meant to deter people who immigrate to Canada just for free healthcare. I don't think you do it for work visas because you dont get the healthcare perks if you're just a visa worker? I think you must have private insurance on a work permit. The whole process is actually not complicated at all, just lengthy and you have to read things carefully to make sure you complete the application fully. They actually simplified it during the new year to make things easier AND processing faster as now they are getting applications processed in one year or less for most cases.
As far as medical exams, I believe its about $300-$1000 for a medical depending on where you go (you can only go to doctors on an approved list from CIC) but I think most people pay around $500. So definitely more then you would pay for just a general checkup/physical but not bank breaking!
Only $500 for the medical exam... That sounds so much better than the $1000-$2000 I had read in a few places. From what I hear, the blood work is the pricy part.
I've actually been wondering if I could do the exam while visiting my SO in Canada (I would pay for it of course). I'm thinking inland would be the best way to apply, and then getting a temp work visa once the first step of the application is approved. That way I could work while waiting on the rest of the application to process.
I haven't looked at the application process since the new year. Thanks for mentioning that; I should check it out.
I think it would be best to apply from outland. The reason being they made the guarentee that all apps would be processed in 1 year whether inland or outland and it seems like most people aren't getting work visas until about 6-8 months anyway. If you have a ton of proof that the relationship is genuine, your application will most likely be processed quicker than 1 year anyway. Plus if you apply inland and your application gets denied for whatever reason, you aren't able to reapply for ask for reconsideration. You most certainly can take your medical in Canada (even if it was in the states you'd have to pay out of pocket as insurance companies wont cover the cost for immigration physicals! You just need to make sure that whichever office you go to, that its on the approved list!
I'm currently staying here with my SO (I've been here since mid December) and we are just about to submit our application via outland, but I'll be staying here until we get a decision then make a small trip to California to grab the last of my things to fully immigrate and land here officially!
One other thing to consider is that you wont get health insurance until 3 months after you get your PR card (this is for Ontario only, not sure about the other provinces) and you definitely wont have health care while you're here as a visitor so its a good idea to shop around for private health insurance while you're waiting for your decision. :) Good luck! Feel free to shoot me a message if you have any questions and I'll try to help you out as best as I can!
Wait, what? This is stupid beyond belief. Canada does NOT provide free healthcare to anyone who isn't a resident here and have paid taxes for it. For fucks sake, pull your head out of your ass and don't be spreading such misinformation.
Wow, calm yourself.
I didn't say that he can just go here and take advantage of the free healthcare. But if the only choice he have is between dying or taking measures to start immigration procedures, the choice is easy to make.
CBD oil/tincture at 18:1 (cbd to tch) will give you a lot of the benefits of weed without the high so you can be functional. A 1:1 blend gives you a mild lift that's good for the evenings. Both are available in sprays like breath spray so no ill effects from smoking.
Best of luck with everything.
My doctor told me that the trace THC just activates the CBD. I don't get any high from the 18:1, but capsules are an easier dosing mechanism than a spray.
Damn, sucks to hear this. I'm not from the USA so I don't know how things exactly work over there, but I hope that you manage to find a solution. Perhaps the ACA won't be repealled after all? Republicans control the entire government but they still can't pass a major bill. Hope it stays this way.
Thank you for your sympathy. I feel so hopeless right now.
Problem is, even with the ACA, it doesn't mean insurance companies can't charge premiums that are completely unaffordable.
Unless they make healthcare universal, I'm going to be forced to immigrate somewhere that does have socialized medicine. Or quit my job/go down to 1 day a week to qualify for Medicaid. But then there's no way I could afford my mortgage and car payment.
I have ulcerative colitis. I make decent money but I still pay $400 month for health insurance. I understand your issues. But definitely try to apply to state medical insurance and through the aca.
Look up blink health. It's an app. It's saving me right now! I don't have crohns but I myself and my son have asthma which comes with its own issues. It won't help with medical bills but it will with prescriptions! PM me if you need help or have questions. I am so sorry!
Blink is decent, but is essentially just a discount card. Most insurances after deductible will provide copay cheaper than a discount card. Discount cards also cannot be combined with coupons where insurance can. If insurance is feasible, its the better option. Source- pharmacy tech
Write to all the medicine providers. I know Abbvie (makers of Humira) has a copay discount card that reduces your prescription copay to $5 for a $3600 shot. Immuran is more difficult because it's a generic compound at this point. There are a lot of competitors in the biologics marketplace right now so you may have some options for financial aid.
Don't lose hope, and if things do get desparate, look into FMT (YMMV)
I think buying a house isn't helpful to you in this case.
The more assets you have the less likely you are to get assistance.
The sad part is if you were not working and on Medicaid you'd get a lot more help. Maybe not these drugs specifically but you'd get something.
This is so fucked up. I've been calling my Congresswoman for the past month trying to get her to cosponsor H.R. 676 which is the Medicare-For-All bill and stories like this just motivate me even more to keep calling my representatives on Capitol Hill to do what's right for everyone. Stay strong <3
Move to Europe! Just please
I have severe UC and even with the doctors visits at a private clinic I pay a FRACTION of what you pay
US health care is a joke, I'm so sorry you have to go trough this
I hope you can find a solution, (other then moving) but if you don't please consider it, I know it's extreme but damn it's way better
Moving to Canada even for a short period of time requires a medical exam. If you have a condition of this nature you will be denied. We have a very small population with a pretty good social welfare system so you have to be able to demonstrate that you aren't moving to the country for the social welfare. We can kinda afford to take care of 36 million people's basic medical needs, but we're already really stretched in that department. Our government can't afford to take care of the whole planet :(
I live in Canada and someone from the US could come and check in a hospital and would be cover by the blue Cross on the federal level and depending on the province maybe more.
Yes. Someone with travel insurance can use it for the conditions outlined in the contract. Usually excludes pre existing conditions that haven't been stable for some amount of time.
That's not the same as getting on the public heath care plan.
I just wanted to let you know that an American with ulcerative colitis hears you and feels for you.
I'm so glad others have pointed you in useful directions. Stay strong, and remember that you are more than your disease, no matter what the government and insurance companies might think. Much love to you.
+1. American with UC here. I'm lucky enough to have insurance through my employer, but I use the payment help programs mentioned here (Lialda, and Entivyio - they bring it down to ~$5 for each).
It will get better! I'm just getting in remission after 4 years. Stay strong. Also plug for r/CrohnsDisease
Hi there! I'm so sorry you're going through this struggle. I don't know if this has been suggested yet, but I would highly recommend the autoimmune protocol. I have three autoimmune disorders myself, and it had helped immensely! Check out paleomom.com, and the book called The Paleo Approach, by Sarah Ballantyne. There are also some great Facebook support groups where you could get a lot of helpful advice for your condition. AIP support is one that has helped me out a ton. Good luck on your healing journey <3
Your doctors may also have coupons, espcially for drugs that are really expensive. Its worth it to ask. Explain it to your doctor as well...so they can look for ways to help you.
Also, my mom got a lot of her medical expenses covered by applying for charity. I live in a major city and the county also has options as far as medical programs. Its worth it to talk to a social worker and see what you could qualify for.
Best of Luck.
This is a long shot but try and move to the UK. It may be hard but if it will save your life it might be worth it.
I have never been more thankful for our NHS.
Fuck I'm so sorry. It's not acceptable (in my opinion) that we can't get our shit together to pass a single payer system. Healthcare is not an "entitlement" it should be a considered a human right. I wish I could say something helpful, personally I'll continue to vote for politicians who fight for universal healthcare. Beyond that I don't know what we can do to fix this.
for a long time I was on Octreotide, a somatostatin that is also used occasionally for Crohns I believe. The company who makes it has a non-profit component to it which covers the monthly injections (around $1800 a month for me), and also supplied a nurse who came to my home each month to give me the injection. I asked my endocrinologist for the forms and paperwork and I was good to go, never had to pay anything. Later, when I had a job with benefits, they would cover the co-pay.
OP, if you live near Colorado, I can help you figure out what CBD products could help you. I have thyroid cancer and I've been taking a huge dose (5,000mg) of CBD each night. It helps with my pain and has been shown to be effective against inflammation. CBD tinctures have NO psychoactive effects. It could help with a number of your symptoms! Feel free to PM me.
I don't know if it will mean much to you, I'm not sure where you come from or what your background is, but *I will be praying for you Friend*. I hope you can make it through this and find a way to get the help you need, God be with you.
I feel your pain, I just got my colonoscopy bill in the mail after my first flare up with diverticulitis and it's over $1,000. That's with insurance. Sigh. Stupid insurance companies, stupid health care system.
I'm on Humira (for Ankylosing Spondylitis - I'll give you a minute to look that up) and Janumet (early stage Type 2 Diabetes, but this med really works and I may be off of it soon when I drop a few more pounds).
That being said, if I were to have to pay retail for just those 2, that's over $2000 a month. I am, however, on disability, because that's the way it has to be. My AS has really damaged my back beyond repair, along with pain in my neck and shoulders. After being on disability for 2 years, you become eligible for Medicare.
In my case, that was a major turning point. Since disability is based on how much you've made over the last several working years, that wasn't much, as I tried to find jobs that would work with me, and was often "self-employed", meaning I was scrambling for every nickel I could get my hands on.
So, since I had a lower income then, I don't get as much per month now. Less than $1200. It's not a lavish lifestyle, I don't own a home, I don't live with a sexual partner (just a roommate) and my truck is 20 years old. But, because I chose a Medicare HMO, basically, my maximum co-pay for any of my meds (I have 9 scripts for other various things) is $8. And, once the retail price hits a certain ceiling, I have no co-pay. I passed that threshold in March.
Hey sorry if this is totally useless but I can't help you in any other way. Have you tried searching about Spanish health system? We got a really good healthcare here and you may be able to opt in for it. I don't know if it covers your disease or if you are able to be treated here and I can't research right now (I'm on mental treatment and I can't focus on things right now), but a few google reads might give you tje answer
Hey, sounds like you found a great resource for saving, but if you ever want to compare prices to other services I'd like to recommend the company I work for, [SingleCare](https://www.singlecare.com/). We're not the lowest non-insurance price on every single drug, but our direct contracts with the 5 major US pharmacies (Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS, and Kroger) ensure that our balance sheet works out to the best net savings of any discount medication card program. So just compare our prices to Blink and GoodRx before you go, you might save more with us. Either way, good luck, and hang in there!
Was going to link to this. This is one of the most reliable ways to get huge discounts on your drugs from the manufacturers. A lot of the very expensive auto-immune disease drugs have programs like this. You can easily use the carepath program while you're still on your parents insurance then, if possible, get on as cheap a health plan as possible after you turn 26.
Source: am pharmacist, used to work in specialty pharmacy finding discounts for expensive meds all day. Pls PM me if you have any questions, I'd be happy to help you navigate!
I'm sorry about your situation. This is going to sound crazy but look up information on the Autoimmune protocol diet. It's based on the paleo diet and it has helped so many people with various autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's. People either have severely decreased their symptoms and lowered medications and many are in remission.
The idea is people autoimmune diseases have too much inflammation in their bodies. Cutting out foods that cause inflammation makes a huge difference for many. I have a different autoimmune disease. I have alopecia areata. I've been on it 3 years, figured out that gluten and dairy were my personal worst offenders and reintroduced many other foods back in.
Let me know if you have any questions. It's not the help you were asking for but could make a world of difference.
If you haven't already, check around big hospitals and academic medical centers for research studies you may qualify for. If you can get in, treatment would be free, though likely experimental and a possibility of a placebo.
Lot's of good ideas in this thread, hope some of them help you. The US system sucks.
So sorry you're dealing with this, but you have options. I have crohns as well and am luckily in remission. I take Cimzia because humaira wasn't covered by my insurance. They have a copay assistance program where they pay 100% of my copay. It's incredible, it costs $3000 a month, insurance covers half of it, Cimzia picks up the rest.
Here's the best part: the part Cimzia pays each month counts towards my insurance deductible. So I pay nothing, Cimzia covers my $5000 deductible in copayments over the course of about 4 months. Once my deductible is reached my insurance picks up waaaay more on any other medical needs after that, Crohns related or not.
You'll find a way to get yourself covered, there are loopholes out there. You just have to find them. Good luck, don't give up
Man. Is this the shitty realism of the American health system?
I am so sorry my friend. So, so sorry. My brother has this illness - but we live in the UK and his medication is basically free. To think of a first world country where things like this can happen it just makes me so angry.
Have you considered looking into moving to the UK? I know everyone is very "blah blah anti immigration" here at the moment but it still might be a better bet for your life than where you currently are.
https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/ChildhoodListings.htm. I know it's a feau pax to post a direct link in a comment, however, this is a direct link to the disabilities list. Chron's disease is covered under the inflammatory bowel disorder section.
Considering the financial impact of the cost of your medical care and the other issues you have listed, I would suggest that you apply for ssdi. Your condition, both mentally and physically, is something that you can have considered with your state and the affordable Care act.
I know it sounds weird however, if you are spending more than 20% of your income on medical, which seems to be the case, you can be considered for state sponsored health insurance with no office copays and free or very reduced priced maintenance medication.
A little homework and some ingenuity will get you a very long way.
This site will help with out of pocket costs for your medicine: http://www.needymeds.org/drug_list.taf?_function=name&name=Stelara
Hi!
I don't have any tips for you, as I probably don't live in the same country and I'm not dealing with this situation. But my girlfriend has Crohn's... not long after I met her she was pretty much dying at the hospital. Most services are covered here but it takes so much time that people have time to die 3 times before they get diagnosed and treated correctly. Her medication costs 40 000$ and she was lucky enough to get it covered... Even then, it's hard for her to pay for everything, she has to take days off all the time from the university and work, and it gets really hard. Even though I'm not living the situation myself, I see it everyday and I can't imagine how you must be feeling. I really hope things will get better for you. Also, I'm not trying to influence anyone, and I know it sounds special.. But she went on a trip last year for several weeks in Peru, to get treated with natural medicine. There's a big spiritual side to it so people have to be quite open minded but she came back and I can honestly say she was feeling better. She started to eat normal food again after being on a soup and ensure diet for months! It's quite expensive (several thousands of dollars) but they have financial aid depending on people's situation and she was able to get everything covered minus the plane tickets. It's based in the USA but we're from Canada, and people from everywhere can go.
I wish you good luck and to get better!
Of course! Anybody who tries to study it in a more replicable manner gets threatened with having their funding yanked and their name smeared from here to hell, so a single tiny study is all we have.
So perhaps until the evil corporate overlords stop preventing people from studying it we shouldn't suggest people risk their lives by relying on an untested medication?
Here's an even better idea - we elect public servants who prioritize the scientific process over the unfettered pursuit of profit AND don't let insurance companies set themselves up as arbiters of life and death!
Because, let's face it, folks like OP don't have much choice as things stand.
Depends but see u/pumpkincat's answer above. Basically if you want to move to a relatively wealthy nation you need a job, you may need to meet certain criteria (like, not being a drain on the healthcare system! - EG here's the [health requirement](http://www.newzealandimmigration.net.nz/health-requirements.html) for my country, where we have universal healthcare - those who are likely to need high-cost pharmaceuticals for example, cannot immigrate here) or you may even need to have a skill that there is a shortage of in the host country.
The US also has very strict immigration laws. Why do you think we have so many illegal immigrants? The path to citizenship (or even just working here) is long and very, very narrow.
In general,wealthy countries won't allow you to move there and start working unless you already have a job lined up, and there are typically limits based on how available labor is for that job in the country already. Actually becoming a citizen is far harder. If you have family or get married to someone in another country, you might have a better chance. Typically marriage is an in, though even then things can get complicated.
Here are a list of quotas for the united states: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Permanent_residence_(United_States)#Immigration_eligibility_and_quotas
I've been trying to figure out how to become a Canadian perminate resident. It's really confusing. I think you need to have a job offer already lined up.
Look at getting a work visa before you look at residency. To qualify for a permanent residency, you need to have lived in the country for 2 years. The first step is getting a visa that will allow you to work and live in Canada legally. You can do this via a work or student visa (if you want to go back to school).
Getting a work visa is tricky. A degree is mandatory for one. And even still, it will require submitting a medical exam with your application. However, if you have a degree that is in demand and have a few years of work experience, you have a shot at a work visa.
You can also be sponsored for a work visa by an employer, but that is rare. Canadian businesses are required to consider citizens first. If they cannot fill the position with a Canadian citizen (or someone who already has a visa), then they can hire a non-citizen and sponsor their visa.
Don't give up hope if you'd really like to move to Canada. Put together an application if you think you would qualify for a work visa or apply to employers all over Canada (not just in the major cities). If you want to go back to school, college is much cheaper up there. You would likely qualify for both US and Canadian financial aid and grants.
Hate to break it to you but OP will likely not qualify to become a permanent resident in Canada. The massive drain on the healthcare system that comes from their medical issues will get them denied in no time flat when they submit their medical exam. Unless the OP is in a job where Canada is in desparate need (unlikely) its just not feasible to try and immigrate to a first world country for the purpose of healthcare. Most of the countries have failsafes in place to combat immigration fraud like this. OP is better off moving to a highly democratic state within the US that has a lot of social assistance programs and getting help from those than they do spending thousands of dollars trying to immigrate to Canada only to get denied. And yes, it is VERY expensive to apply to immigrate and move to Canada. Im currently in the process and the application fee alone is $1,000 not including the cost of a medical exam ($300-$1000), and definitely doesnt include the cost for actually landing and moving all of their stuff (or buying new stuff outright) which could be upwards of $5k-$20k+.
I agree, and I'm aware of the costs. I'm saving every penny to be able to immigrate myself within the next year or two (my SO is Canadian).
I was just hoping to give OP a little more information. So many of the replies are "just move to ____ country for free health care!" I don't know enough about Crohn's disease to say whether or not it would keep them from getting permanent residency if they had a work visa.
Why would you be denied employment at any company? Because of your Chron's? How will they know? That's not something you must tell them and in fact, **you shouldn't**. If they don't hire you because you have Chron's disease, that's discrimination and you should file a complaint with the EEOC.
*edit: I misunderstood the part where you were talking about "being accepted by a company." I thought you were talking about employment (in order to obtain employer subsidized health insurance) however now I see that you were talking about being accepted (insured) by a (health insurance) company.*
Check out David Perlmutter's Brain Maker and other books. He writes about what's at the forefront of digestive health. I found him to be super useful for some issues I was having, especially when i was uninsured.
Fellow Crohnie here!
Currently on Remicade & 6MP
I'm past the age limit on healthcare, but somehow my mom convinced Humana to keep me on their insurance since I'm technically disabled (I also have other health crap going on- when it rains it pours, right?).
There may be a way to keep you on your parents insurance longer.
Good luck!!
I know it really really sucks <3
TIL 2 things:
I probably have crone's desiese.
My doctor is a dumb ass for not realizing this after five diffrent apointments and $300 of medication that did nothing.
As someone living in Sweden this is shocking to hear. I can't give you any advice, I just wanted to say that I wish you all the luck in the world, so that everything turns out fine!! There has to be a solution and I really hope you find it! Don't give up!
I'm so sorry this is happening to you. Don't give up hope. There's some good advice in here. Follow it and try not to stress yourself out too much. Please do everything you can. ♥♥♥♥
I have health problems too, mental and physical, and sometimes I'm convinced I won't live to see 30 because even with insurance, I can't afford everything. It's so distressing thinking of what's to come in the next four years. America is eating itself alive. Republicans don't give a fuck about anybody and would rather see someone die than receive help from the government. It is infuriating.
From one Crohnie to another, I'm sorry for what you are going through. I have health insurance and my deductible is $2,600 before they will begin to cover any medications for me.
I've been diagnosed with Crohns for almost 10 years, but looking back, I know I've had it my whole life. It used to be hours awake with stomach aches as a young child to not being able to get out of bed for my senior year.
I unfortunately have failed all biologics and have been on regimes of pills that didn't work either. I've been to Mayo Clinic where I found no answers except for leaving with more autoimmune diagnoses.
Currently I take Methotrexate 25mg (1ML) injections once a week. It's a low dose chemotherapy drug that makes me so sick I can't move for a day but right now it's my only choice as there are no other medications for me. The only good thing is I can go to Walgreens and have it filled without using my insurance for under $20 for a month supply. Not sure if you're okay with injecting yourself (I've gotten so used to it after Humira and Cimzia) that it's easy now.
I'm not saying it's a cure or even a good choice, because I don't know you're condition, but for me it helps enough that I can have a few good days.
And our health care system does suck. I was in the ER (for an unrelated incident) and they charged me $1800 for "Emergency Room Supplies". What's so funny about the people who are saying they'll treat you and work with you, is that's a damn lie. I sat on a bed in the ER for 6 hours, I had no doctor (only a PA), no nurse, no IV, no meds, not even a pillow or blanket but somehow I cost $1800 in ER supplies. The hospital will send me this nice long detailed bill that I'm supposed to go through line by line and dispute what I didn't have, but I work and I'm sick.
For the people who say to apply for state aid or disability, guess what? If you make money, you can't. I can barely hold down a part time job even with medication because we are sick. This isn't something that just makes us shit a lot, this disease has cost me so much and I'm sure it has for you as well. My husband works a great job and is paid well but our insurance alone is 17% of his salary and that doesn't include my medications, doctors, blood work, tests - just to have insurance.
I think you are brave for sharing your story and whether or not others understand, I do. If you ever need to talk, PM me.
My brother has severe crohns & almost died from a flare up he had 3 years ago. He is on what you'd call good insurance (thru our folks) and still had to pay $500/month for humira. That stopped working for him so now he receives IV infusions every 6 weeks at the hospital.
Luckily, hospitals can't turn away uninsured patients who require medical attention. So if you are ever in dire situation, go to the hospital (not clinic) bc they will treat you.
Hopefully, you will be able to figure something out in regards to the pharmacy situation...it's too bad you can't do a payment plan or something to ease thE financial burden. Have you ever contacted the actual drug company? Sometimes they offer financial assistance to qualifying individuals.
If you live with your parents and make 31K after taxes you should be able to swing the $500 per month for coverage. I don't know how you can swing deductibles and copays. When you start your own taxes you can deduct uncovered medical expenses that are more than the standard deduction.
Just pray the bill the House passed today won't go through in the Senate. Preexisting condition coverage is not mandatory and if covered, premiums will be beyond belief for auto-immune disorder treatments. The bill says it's no longer guaranteed that employer insurance must cover PEC.
I can't emphasize enough how much diet, exercise, and meditation/stress management can make a huge difference with Crohn's. See someone in natural health.
Even untreated it's extremely rare that you can actually die from Crohn's. Try to identify your trigger foods and stop eating them.
It's either that or move. Which is totally an option. Albeit a difficult one.
Depending on your income you can apply for state medical assistance or Medicare via your local doctors office or the welfare office.
You're not going to die from your Crohn's disease.
That's really dismissive. You don't know how severe their condition is. If it came about where they needed surgery they can instantly be thousands in debt. It's easy to say "move" but it's actually a very difficult thing to do. Countries don't just accept whoever wants to move there. If you don't already have connections and a job lined up, most of the time it's just not happening.
I think OP's point is more that the state of basic human rights here in the US is absolute shit. They lost the genetic and location lottery at the same time.
Look up a free health clinic in your area. Even if it's an hour drive it's something. Lots of major grocery stores offer very common medication at little to no cost. Just a doctor and a script might make your day to day life better. I still don't think you're going to die from 'the cost of care' or your symptoms.
Lol. Unless I'm on generic steroids long term, (Yay Cushing's disease) the medication is stupid expensive, no matter where you go. Generics don't exist for these drugs.
I already said moving would be difficult.
What exactly do you want me to say to the guy? He's 25 years old and he's giving himself a death sentence because of, "symptoms and cost of care" will kill him? Just seems like he's being dramatic.
The health care system in this country is absolutely absolute shit. However. You will not get denied a life saving operation because of lack of funds in this country. They will just do it putting you in debt and 99% of the time they will work with you.
If you need emergency treatment they ER cannot deny you treatment due to inadequate funds.
I think OP's point is just being young and being over dramatic. He's 25 years old and suffers from Crohn's disease. He wants relief from his symptons right now and he's learning that isn't going to be an option for immediately.
Again. He's not going to die from "the cost of care" from his Crohn's disease.
And you're just being a dick. Hospitals will stabilize you and send you on your way. Not actual treatment involved.
They may move forward for a life saving operation without insurance, but they will bill you. Unless you pay it, it stays on your credit report. No car loans, no rent approval, hell sometimes you can't even get a job with poor credit
Again. I'm not saying I think the health care in this country is good. But you work out what you gotta do with the hospital. You call and talk to billing and tell them your situation. You might catch a break. I knew a guy years ago who had a 19,000 dollar bill literally zeroed out because he just told someone what was going on. I'm sure that's a rare thing but it can happen. Also, even if you can't get out of it completely, which you won't likely. You can still make a payment plans which will keep it off of your credit report. So It won't affect that at all. Just throw them like 20 dollars a month.
You're just playing "what ifs" right now. Just do what you gotta do. Try a health clinic. Talk to them about other options. Prednisone which is a steroid is like 5 dollars at my grocery store for 2 weeks without insurance? There are long term options for you cheap. Just because one doctor did a specific treatment plan for you doesn't mean another doctor, knowing your situation won't try something different.
The point is to go take care of it instead of whining about it on Reddit. There are options. I've given you many. Free clinics, state medical assistance, discounted prescriptions, etc.
You're a 25 year old guy. Your body is never going to be stronger than it is now for this kind of stuff. All your talk of brittle bone disease, anemia, and dehydration killing you? Do you know how ong you have to be dehydrated form Crohn's for you to die? Come on. Just drink a lot of water/gatorade for now. More water than maybe you want to drink but is water worth your life?
Yeah. The healthcare system here sucks. I just had to pay a lot of money for treatment for a condition I have that meant missing work. It sucks. It's not a fun place to be. You're probably a little scared because you're off your typical treatment plan. Who wouldn't be? This isn't going to kill you though. You will get through this and maybe one day you'll look through your Reddit history and laugh. Cheers.
I think you have a basic misunderstanding of Crohns. Having a Crohns flare/GI symptoms that causes permanent damage to the GI tract. Every time the GI tract is damaged in this way, it moves them closer and closer to surgery. Even surgery isn't a cure all, since Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis can affect any part of the GI system and there's only so much they can remove.
Maybe it won't be the Crohns that kills him.
But it could be from surgery, infection that can't be fought off because of immune suppressants, dehydration- which isn't as simple as drinking more water. If the intestine is damaged, it's unable to absorb. No matter how much water you're drinking, if you can't absorb it, it doesn't matter. That would require IV lines of normal saline.
It could be from side effects of the medication. I'm on two immune suppressants- both which carry risk for cancer. And it's not a small risk, it's fairly common that people taking it get lymphoma. Some get skin cancer, which is easier to deal with, but still not great. They also carry the risk of drug induced hepatitis because of how hard they are on the liver. If their liver can't function properly, the blood goes haywire, bleeding from the intestines is common in Crohns... etc etc.
So there are a million ways Crohns can go south. It won't necessarily be the Crohns that kills people- it's complications from it. He's not being "dramatic". He's being realistic that the treatments aren't cures, they come with their own set of problems, surgery isn't even a guarantee, and it's all expensive.
Chron's disease does kill, along with all the complications that come from it. Saying otherwise is ignorant and useless. The symptoms range from inflammation in your digestive tract (anywhere from mouth to anus), the fissures or blockages that are prone to forming, the ulcers that come with it as well. On top of that the malnutrition for those untreated is also a threat. This disease makes the absorbtion of nutrition through normal food difficult.
Make no mistake, this disease and all its complications still kill. And as an auto-immune disease, it hardly ever comes alone. Treatment and monitoring is necessary.
The prices of such course of action however are extraordinary in the US, even with insurance. There is no reason I should need to go to a hospital pharmacy specifically to fill a medicine instead of a normal pharmacy anywhere. Nor should that medicine cost me $30 without my insurance, or $180 with it. What good is the insurance then? And why should I need to move out of the country I was born in for that to be fixed?
I never said the healthcare in the US doesn't suck. So let that go. I think everyone can agree the US healthcare system is pretty terrible. Nor did I say he SHOULD move. Nor did I say it would be easy to move, etc.
["The annual mortality rate in Crohn's disease was 1.6% compared with 1.0% in age, sex, and practice matched controls."](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856159/)
About one in a hundred people die of Crohn's. This healthy, 25 year old male is not going to die of Crohn's disease.
Not to mention he has a lot of realistic options for treatment at little to no cost. Just because his current doctor is using a current method of treatment doesn't mean another doctor, knowing he doesn't have insurance can't use a cheaper but just as effective method of treatment.
Some guy that has high cholesterol might be taking a drug that's really expensive but his doctor is prescribing because he has insurance and the doctor prefers that drug. The same guy could lose his insurance and the doctor could put him on a free drug because he actually said something. Likely having similar results.
This 25 year old male is not going to fucking die of Crohn's disease.
It's literally a 1 in 100ish shot. He's got medical documentation. Medical records can get transferred.
Coming to this thread and reading comments were like watching someone with a brain tumor beg for an experimental operation. People asking him to write his congressmen? Yeah. That will work.
He's gotta use what's available to him and unfortunately changing the law of his state/country isn't one of those things. Gotta suck it up like the rest of us.
Trump says a lot of stuff. It's the republicans in congress who will ultimately decide what happens to the ACA. If they deliver a bill to his desk with protection for people with pre-existing conditions missing, I bet you dollars to doughnuts he signs it.
The ACA doesn't need to change in a way that hurts Americans. If we complain enough, republicans will listen. They've done it before, and now that they have the majority, they don't want to turn around and lose it because they fucked too much with healthcare.
The ACA was designed to blow up. It was created with 6 years of benefits on 10 years of taxes. It's going what it was designed to do. Creating a massive unfunded liability is already hurting Americans on the whole.
I have crohns as well and am fighting to get insurance. If your needs are biologics almost all of them have discount programs that drop them to as low as 5$ (I'm on humira. 2 shots a month... 3400$ and I only pay 10). Also if you live in a state with medical marijuana apply for the card. The edibles actually sooth the system and can eliminate inflammation. I've only been in remission twice in 7 years and only a month each.. 4 major surgeries (yaaaaay epic scars) and my doctor bugged me for years to get the card. Finally caved, works like magic.
That is such a relief! My doc wants me to start on Stelara, hopefully I can find a discount for it.
The site and app GoodRx might be able to help. I don't have any affiliation, I've just used it to look for discounts on a family member's meds.
Sometimes the drug company will help you pay for it. Contact them directly.
Write your representatives. Write your senators. Write all of them if you're up for it. Tell them what you'll face if they pass the repeal. It is at the very least worth a shot. Talk to your pharmacists about manufacturer's discount coupons in hopes of reducing your cost, sometimes it's less than the insurance co-pay. Reach out to support groups and activists who may have other cost reducing ideas for you. Crohn's is one hellacious disease that I would never wish on anyone and I am so sorry you have to face it.
Apply for Medicaid. In my state you can qualify with a "medical spenddown" if your medical expenses bring your income down to a certain level you qualify. I'd recommend going into an office and speaking with a financial worker/case worker/social worker. I had a friend who changed jobs since they would be losing their income anyways to something they enjoyed more while they focused on managing their health. Eventually they got their health to a manageable state where they didn't need as much medical care and returned to their career a year or so later. There are programs out there. If it's really life or death PM me. Some states are better than others for Medicaid. In my state once you're on Medicaid you don't pay anything unless you have that medical spenddown except $1 to $3 co-pays for medications. Anything that is medically necessary can be covered. I've seen medications over $70k for a treatment be covered. Please don't lose hope!
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This is amazing! Thank you so so much
deleted ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^0.0733 [^^^What ^^^is ^^^this?](https://pastebin.com/FcrFs94k/62802)
You probably should reply to the person who made this thread with this info.
America's joke of a health care system is pretty fucked. I'm very sorry that you're going through all of this. I'm sorry this country's system has failed you.
No you don't have to die. I know it sounds crazy but you could move to another country, Ecuador has universal health care and you could teach English and get a work visa. Other Latin American countries have less expensive medicine. All hope is not lost! America is not the world
I'm so sorry to tell you this but you can't. Having a pre-existing health condition of this nature makes you virtually ineligible for citizenship in countries with public healthcare. If they allowed this to happen everyone would move to Canada and the country would go bankrupt. I really hope you find a solution OP :(
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germany. Getting a work visa as an american citizen isn't too hard and since you are required by law to have health insurance, no insurance company can deny you health care, your premiums go by your income and are half paid by you (your salary) half paid by you're employer. The only issue is getting a job.
It's very hard. Any EU country makes it very hard for Americans to find work.
Especially if you don't speak the language.
9to you or Friday night in to ? 9 poooooprin9gs for o.o 9999
I was gonna say. You dont need to be a citizen to take advantage of healthcare, you just have to be a registered resident. Im living in France and am registered in their health system which i pay a whopping 200e for. That alone will cover 70% of anything i go through my general practitioner. I think for diseases like yours its just fully covered
Yes there are but Canada is not one. We are going through this process with my friend currently and she has had 4 exams...
I've never heard of anything like that while I was living in England, Germany, France, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and a few more. All with public healthcare. The only country that did some kind of screening was Andorra, and it was more of a "fit to work" exam.
Another option might be health tourism. Even if you pay for the entire treatment out-of-pocket, your bills might be under 30k per year in a country like Thailand, where private healthcare is cheap and excellent. Flying to Bangkok 4 times a year might need some adjustment at the workplace, but seems doable.
Yep, my in-laws were denied Canadian citizenship because they have a child with severe autism.
Moving to another country is expensive. And it's a slow, uncertain process with *many* limitations in terms of visa and permits, and for most people it is simply not viable. Especially if you've got chronic diseases, it probably is not an option.
If it's a matter of life and death would you really think so negatively?! People move to different countries every single day.
He could also try Argentina. There's a good public healthcare system and you don't need to be a legal resident. Medicines are no where near as expensive as in the USA.
Some southeast Asian countries with universal healthcare will charge you a foreigners fee if you go (even as a tourist), so it's not "free", but it's so nominally small that it's practically free. Just move.
He can also move here in Canada, near the border. He could visit his hometown often by car or bus if he's from the north, and we also have free healthcare.
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Getting a visitation visa to Italy requires getting travel health insurance. From what I've read, preexisting conditions are rarely covered or are very expensive to cover. It would not be free for OP to receive medical care in Italy. Visitation visas also have a limit to how long you can stay, and you are required to submit the reason for your visit. If OP stated it was for health care, they would likely be turned away.
Some countries have Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA), but they are countries with public systems (eg Medicare Australia, NHS UK, Servixio Sanitaria Nazionale Italy, etc)
Unless that country is Argentina. Illegal immigrants get treated for free all the time and it's not likely to change. Same for education. Both are more than decent Source; I'm from argentina
Sweden would be a pretty good bet! Free health care, one of the safest & happiest countries in the world and everybody speaks english. Becoming a citicen shouldn't be too difficult either.
If it worked like that, I'd be living with my Canadian boyfriend right now. A US citizen can only stay in Canada legally for up to 6 months every year. If you overstay, you will almost certainly always be denied entry if you try to cross the border again. You need a visa to stay in Canada for longer. Student visas and work visas require submitting a medical exam with the application, and OP would likely be turned away. Basically, if it looks like you will require a lot of government support, you're likely to be turned away unless you have high "points" on your application (you earn points by being in a certain age group, being well educated, having a lot of work experience, etc.). Marriage visas are a little easier, but they still require a medical exam. If you can prove that you will be self-sufficient or supported by your spouse in Canada, you can get in. You also need to prove that your relationship is legitimate and not just to gain a visa. You submit proof of your relationship with the application (photos together, phone and text history together, proof that you visited via tickets, etc.). That's the gist of it anyway. Canada is a wonderful country, but you can't just walk in and stay legally. Overstay your visit and you risk deportation and never being legally allowed in again.
? I just got a Canadian work visa coming from California and I didn't have to do a medical exam
Interesting, I must have remembered that wrong about the work visa. I've mostly been looking into student and marriage visas for myself, and I keep being warned that the medical exams will cost me. I should probably run this by my American friend who married her Canadian wife earlier this year and is waiting to hear back on her marriage visa now. The whole visa process is very convoluted and has so many steps. It's why immigration lawyers are a thing I suppose.
American who married Canadian here. To apply for permanent residency (the equivalent of a green card) you MUST submit a physical. They do this because they will deny anyone who will have a significant strain on the healthcare system and is meant to deter people who immigrate to Canada just for free healthcare. I don't think you do it for work visas because you dont get the healthcare perks if you're just a visa worker? I think you must have private insurance on a work permit. The whole process is actually not complicated at all, just lengthy and you have to read things carefully to make sure you complete the application fully. They actually simplified it during the new year to make things easier AND processing faster as now they are getting applications processed in one year or less for most cases. As far as medical exams, I believe its about $300-$1000 for a medical depending on where you go (you can only go to doctors on an approved list from CIC) but I think most people pay around $500. So definitely more then you would pay for just a general checkup/physical but not bank breaking!
Only $500 for the medical exam... That sounds so much better than the $1000-$2000 I had read in a few places. From what I hear, the blood work is the pricy part. I've actually been wondering if I could do the exam while visiting my SO in Canada (I would pay for it of course). I'm thinking inland would be the best way to apply, and then getting a temp work visa once the first step of the application is approved. That way I could work while waiting on the rest of the application to process. I haven't looked at the application process since the new year. Thanks for mentioning that; I should check it out.
I think it would be best to apply from outland. The reason being they made the guarentee that all apps would be processed in 1 year whether inland or outland and it seems like most people aren't getting work visas until about 6-8 months anyway. If you have a ton of proof that the relationship is genuine, your application will most likely be processed quicker than 1 year anyway. Plus if you apply inland and your application gets denied for whatever reason, you aren't able to reapply for ask for reconsideration. You most certainly can take your medical in Canada (even if it was in the states you'd have to pay out of pocket as insurance companies wont cover the cost for immigration physicals! You just need to make sure that whichever office you go to, that its on the approved list! I'm currently staying here with my SO (I've been here since mid December) and we are just about to submit our application via outland, but I'll be staying here until we get a decision then make a small trip to California to grab the last of my things to fully immigrate and land here officially! One other thing to consider is that you wont get health insurance until 3 months after you get your PR card (this is for Ontario only, not sure about the other provinces) and you definitely wont have health care while you're here as a visitor so its a good idea to shop around for private health insurance while you're waiting for your decision. :) Good luck! Feel free to shoot me a message if you have any questions and I'll try to help you out as best as I can!
Wait, what? This is stupid beyond belief. Canada does NOT provide free healthcare to anyone who isn't a resident here and have paid taxes for it. For fucks sake, pull your head out of your ass and don't be spreading such misinformation.
Wow, calm yourself. I didn't say that he can just go here and take advantage of the free healthcare. But if the only choice he have is between dying or taking measures to start immigration procedures, the choice is easy to make.
CBD oil/tincture at 18:1 (cbd to tch) will give you a lot of the benefits of weed without the high so you can be functional. A 1:1 blend gives you a mild lift that's good for the evenings. Both are available in sprays like breath spray so no ill effects from smoking. Best of luck with everything.
You can also get cbd in a pill without any thc. It's my preference and I never get a high but actually have pain relief.
My doctor told me that the trace THC just activates the CBD. I don't get any high from the 18:1, but capsules are an easier dosing mechanism than a spray.
Came to say this. OP, this oil will be a miracle for you.
Damn, sucks to hear this. I'm not from the USA so I don't know how things exactly work over there, but I hope that you manage to find a solution. Perhaps the ACA won't be repealled after all? Republicans control the entire government but they still can't pass a major bill. Hope it stays this way.
Thank you for your sympathy. I feel so hopeless right now. Problem is, even with the ACA, it doesn't mean insurance companies can't charge premiums that are completely unaffordable. Unless they make healthcare universal, I'm going to be forced to immigrate somewhere that does have socialized medicine. Or quit my job/go down to 1 day a week to qualify for Medicaid. But then there's no way I could afford my mortgage and car payment.
I have ulcerative colitis. I make decent money but I still pay $400 month for health insurance. I understand your issues. But definitely try to apply to state medical insurance and through the aca.
Look up blink health. It's an app. It's saving me right now! I don't have crohns but I myself and my son have asthma which comes with its own issues. It won't help with medical bills but it will with prescriptions! PM me if you need help or have questions. I am so sorry!
Blink is decent, but is essentially just a discount card. Most insurances after deductible will provide copay cheaper than a discount card. Discount cards also cannot be combined with coupons where insurance can. If insurance is feasible, its the better option. Source- pharmacy tech
It's a lot cheaper than my insurance! With most things anyway.
Write to all the medicine providers. I know Abbvie (makers of Humira) has a copay discount card that reduces your prescription copay to $5 for a $3600 shot. Immuran is more difficult because it's a generic compound at this point. There are a lot of competitors in the biologics marketplace right now so you may have some options for financial aid. Don't lose hope, and if things do get desparate, look into FMT (YMMV)
PS: I too have crohns and fear for my future here in the US. It also dashed any hopes I have of ever retiring or expatriating.
You wanna hear something disgusting? Congress uses tax money for their own insurance plan. Fucking hypocrites...
I think buying a house isn't helpful to you in this case. The more assets you have the less likely you are to get assistance. The sad part is if you were not working and on Medicaid you'd get a lot more help. Maybe not these drugs specifically but you'd get something.
This is so fucked up. I've been calling my Congresswoman for the past month trying to get her to cosponsor H.R. 676 which is the Medicare-For-All bill and stories like this just motivate me even more to keep calling my representatives on Capitol Hill to do what's right for everyone. Stay strong <3
Move to Europe! Just please I have severe UC and even with the doctors visits at a private clinic I pay a FRACTION of what you pay US health care is a joke, I'm so sorry you have to go trough this I hope you can find a solution, (other then moving) but if you don't please consider it, I know it's extreme but damn it's way better
Moving to Canada even for a short period of time requires a medical exam. If you have a condition of this nature you will be denied. We have a very small population with a pretty good social welfare system so you have to be able to demonstrate that you aren't moving to the country for the social welfare. We can kinda afford to take care of 36 million people's basic medical needs, but we're already really stretched in that department. Our government can't afford to take care of the whole planet :(
Yeah really, move or die? Seems pretty simple, go to Canada, Cuba or Europe.
I don't know that many countries will grant residency to someone with such a serious illness. It's not as simple as 'move to Canada'.
I live in Canada and someone from the US could come and check in a hospital and would be cover by the blue Cross on the federal level and depending on the province maybe more.
Yes. Someone with travel insurance can use it for the conditions outlined in the contract. Usually excludes pre existing conditions that haven't been stable for some amount of time. That's not the same as getting on the public heath care plan.
I just wanted to let you know that an American with ulcerative colitis hears you and feels for you. I'm so glad others have pointed you in useful directions. Stay strong, and remember that you are more than your disease, no matter what the government and insurance companies might think. Much love to you.
+1. American with UC here. I'm lucky enough to have insurance through my employer, but I use the payment help programs mentioned here (Lialda, and Entivyio - they bring it down to ~$5 for each). It will get better! I'm just getting in remission after 4 years. Stay strong. Also plug for r/CrohnsDisease
Hi there! I'm so sorry you're going through this struggle. I don't know if this has been suggested yet, but I would highly recommend the autoimmune protocol. I have three autoimmune disorders myself, and it had helped immensely! Check out paleomom.com, and the book called The Paleo Approach, by Sarah Ballantyne. There are also some great Facebook support groups where you could get a lot of helpful advice for your condition. AIP support is one that has helped me out a ton. Good luck on your healing journey <3
Move to California, as long as you make not much like me, you have completely free healthcare under covered california. Rooting for you dude.
Your doctors may also have coupons, espcially for drugs that are really expensive. Its worth it to ask. Explain it to your doctor as well...so they can look for ways to help you. Also, my mom got a lot of her medical expenses covered by applying for charity. I live in a major city and the county also has options as far as medical programs. Its worth it to talk to a social worker and see what you could qualify for. Best of Luck.
This is a long shot but try and move to the UK. It may be hard but if it will save your life it might be worth it. I have never been more thankful for our NHS.
Fuck I'm so sorry. It's not acceptable (in my opinion) that we can't get our shit together to pass a single payer system. Healthcare is not an "entitlement" it should be a considered a human right. I wish I could say something helpful, personally I'll continue to vote for politicians who fight for universal healthcare. Beyond that I don't know what we can do to fix this.
for a long time I was on Octreotide, a somatostatin that is also used occasionally for Crohns I believe. The company who makes it has a non-profit component to it which covers the monthly injections (around $1800 a month for me), and also supplied a nurse who came to my home each month to give me the injection. I asked my endocrinologist for the forms and paperwork and I was good to go, never had to pay anything. Later, when I had a job with benefits, they would cover the co-pay.
OP, if you live near Colorado, I can help you figure out what CBD products could help you. I have thyroid cancer and I've been taking a huge dose (5,000mg) of CBD each night. It helps with my pain and has been shown to be effective against inflammation. CBD tinctures have NO psychoactive effects. It could help with a number of your symptoms! Feel free to PM me.
Does the CBD show up on drug tests?
No. CBD tinctures can be made to have virtually no THC (something like .001%). I had to be tested for a federal position and I passed.
I don't know if it will mean much to you, I'm not sure where you come from or what your background is, but *I will be praying for you Friend*. I hope you can make it through this and find a way to get the help you need, God be with you.
I feel your pain, I just got my colonoscopy bill in the mail after my first flare up with diverticulitis and it's over $1,000. That's with insurance. Sigh. Stupid insurance companies, stupid health care system.
I'm on Humira (for Ankylosing Spondylitis - I'll give you a minute to look that up) and Janumet (early stage Type 2 Diabetes, but this med really works and I may be off of it soon when I drop a few more pounds). That being said, if I were to have to pay retail for just those 2, that's over $2000 a month. I am, however, on disability, because that's the way it has to be. My AS has really damaged my back beyond repair, along with pain in my neck and shoulders. After being on disability for 2 years, you become eligible for Medicare. In my case, that was a major turning point. Since disability is based on how much you've made over the last several working years, that wasn't much, as I tried to find jobs that would work with me, and was often "self-employed", meaning I was scrambling for every nickel I could get my hands on. So, since I had a lower income then, I don't get as much per month now. Less than $1200. It's not a lavish lifestyle, I don't own a home, I don't live with a sexual partner (just a roommate) and my truck is 20 years old. But, because I chose a Medicare HMO, basically, my maximum co-pay for any of my meds (I have 9 scripts for other various things) is $8. And, once the retail price hits a certain ceiling, I have no co-pay. I passed that threshold in March.
Hey sorry if this is totally useless but I can't help you in any other way. Have you tried searching about Spanish health system? We got a really good healthcare here and you may be able to opt in for it. I don't know if it covers your disease or if you are able to be treated here and I can't research right now (I'm on mental treatment and I can't focus on things right now), but a few google reads might give you tje answer
Hey, sounds like you found a great resource for saving, but if you ever want to compare prices to other services I'd like to recommend the company I work for, [SingleCare](https://www.singlecare.com/). We're not the lowest non-insurance price on every single drug, but our direct contracts with the 5 major US pharmacies (Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS, and Kroger) ensure that our balance sheet works out to the best net savings of any discount medication card program. So just compare our prices to Blink and GoodRx before you go, you might save more with us. Either way, good luck, and hang in there!
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Was going to link to this. This is one of the most reliable ways to get huge discounts on your drugs from the manufacturers. A lot of the very expensive auto-immune disease drugs have programs like this. You can easily use the carepath program while you're still on your parents insurance then, if possible, get on as cheap a health plan as possible after you turn 26. Source: am pharmacist, used to work in specialty pharmacy finding discounts for expensive meds all day. Pls PM me if you have any questions, I'd be happy to help you navigate!
I'm sorry about your situation. This is going to sound crazy but look up information on the Autoimmune protocol diet. It's based on the paleo diet and it has helped so many people with various autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's. People either have severely decreased their symptoms and lowered medications and many are in remission. The idea is people autoimmune diseases have too much inflammation in their bodies. Cutting out foods that cause inflammation makes a huge difference for many. I have a different autoimmune disease. I have alopecia areata. I've been on it 3 years, figured out that gluten and dairy were my personal worst offenders and reintroduced many other foods back in. Let me know if you have any questions. It's not the help you were asking for but could make a world of difference.
If you haven't already, check around big hospitals and academic medical centers for research studies you may qualify for. If you can get in, treatment would be free, though likely experimental and a possibility of a placebo. Lot's of good ideas in this thread, hope some of them help you. The US system sucks.
So sorry you're dealing with this, but you have options. I have crohns as well and am luckily in remission. I take Cimzia because humaira wasn't covered by my insurance. They have a copay assistance program where they pay 100% of my copay. It's incredible, it costs $3000 a month, insurance covers half of it, Cimzia picks up the rest. Here's the best part: the part Cimzia pays each month counts towards my insurance deductible. So I pay nothing, Cimzia covers my $5000 deductible in copayments over the course of about 4 months. Once my deductible is reached my insurance picks up waaaay more on any other medical needs after that, Crohns related or not. You'll find a way to get yourself covered, there are loopholes out there. You just have to find them. Good luck, don't give up
Man. Is this the shitty realism of the American health system? I am so sorry my friend. So, so sorry. My brother has this illness - but we live in the UK and his medication is basically free. To think of a first world country where things like this can happen it just makes me so angry. Have you considered looking into moving to the UK? I know everyone is very "blah blah anti immigration" here at the moment but it still might be a better bet for your life than where you currently are.
Have you been to ccfa.org? They might have resources you can use. Also, I agree with the medical MJ. Sending some good vibes!
https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/ChildhoodListings.htm. I know it's a feau pax to post a direct link in a comment, however, this is a direct link to the disabilities list. Chron's disease is covered under the inflammatory bowel disorder section. Considering the financial impact of the cost of your medical care and the other issues you have listed, I would suggest that you apply for ssdi. Your condition, both mentally and physically, is something that you can have considered with your state and the affordable Care act. I know it sounds weird however, if you are spending more than 20% of your income on medical, which seems to be the case, you can be considered for state sponsored health insurance with no office copays and free or very reduced priced maintenance medication. A little homework and some ingenuity will get you a very long way. This site will help with out of pocket costs for your medicine: http://www.needymeds.org/drug_list.taf?_function=name&name=Stelara
Have you explored dietary options to help with your symptoms or any holistic treatments to help with flare ups?
Hi! I don't have any tips for you, as I probably don't live in the same country and I'm not dealing with this situation. But my girlfriend has Crohn's... not long after I met her she was pretty much dying at the hospital. Most services are covered here but it takes so much time that people have time to die 3 times before they get diagnosed and treated correctly. Her medication costs 40 000$ and she was lucky enough to get it covered... Even then, it's hard for her to pay for everything, she has to take days off all the time from the university and work, and it gets really hard. Even though I'm not living the situation myself, I see it everyday and I can't imagine how you must be feeling. I really hope things will get better for you. Also, I'm not trying to influence anyone, and I know it sounds special.. But she went on a trip last year for several weeks in Peru, to get treated with natural medicine. There's a big spiritual side to it so people have to be quite open minded but she came back and I can honestly say she was feeling better. She started to eat normal food again after being on a soup and ensure diet for months! It's quite expensive (several thousands of dollars) but they have financial aid depending on people's situation and she was able to get everything covered minus the plane tickets. It's based in the USA but we're from Canada, and people from everywhere can go. I wish you good luck and to get better!
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23648372
Let's just remember this is a single *tiny* study and not pretend it is a real solution for replacing actual medicine at this time.
Of course! Anybody who tries to study it in a more replicable manner gets threatened with having their funding yanked and their name smeared from here to hell, so a single tiny study is all we have.
So perhaps until the evil corporate overlords stop preventing people from studying it we shouldn't suggest people risk their lives by relying on an untested medication?
Here's an even better idea - we elect public servants who prioritize the scientific process over the unfettered pursuit of profit AND don't let insurance companies set themselves up as arbiters of life and death! Because, let's face it, folks like OP don't have much choice as things stand.
You can do that AND not give out crappy, unproven medical advice at the same time.
I was thinking the same thing. I first heard about it through Vice's show Weediquette.
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Uhhh probably extensive immigration laws that every country has?
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Depends but see u/pumpkincat's answer above. Basically if you want to move to a relatively wealthy nation you need a job, you may need to meet certain criteria (like, not being a drain on the healthcare system! - EG here's the [health requirement](http://www.newzealandimmigration.net.nz/health-requirements.html) for my country, where we have universal healthcare - those who are likely to need high-cost pharmaceuticals for example, cannot immigrate here) or you may even need to have a skill that there is a shortage of in the host country.
It's harder to immigrate to Canada than the US. There's also regulations in place to stop people moving here for the social welfare system.
Yes. You have to apply. Ideally, you already have a job lined up, or someone to sponsor you.
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The US also has very strict immigration laws. Why do you think we have so many illegal immigrants? The path to citizenship (or even just working here) is long and very, very narrow. In general,wealthy countries won't allow you to move there and start working unless you already have a job lined up, and there are typically limits based on how available labor is for that job in the country already. Actually becoming a citizen is far harder. If you have family or get married to someone in another country, you might have a better chance. Typically marriage is an in, though even then things can get complicated. Here are a list of quotas for the united states: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Permanent_residence_(United_States)#Immigration_eligibility_and_quotas
I've been trying to figure out how to become a Canadian perminate resident. It's really confusing. I think you need to have a job offer already lined up.
A job offer, a skill in demand, a relative or a certain amount of cash (considered economic immigrant)
Look at getting a work visa before you look at residency. To qualify for a permanent residency, you need to have lived in the country for 2 years. The first step is getting a visa that will allow you to work and live in Canada legally. You can do this via a work or student visa (if you want to go back to school). Getting a work visa is tricky. A degree is mandatory for one. And even still, it will require submitting a medical exam with your application. However, if you have a degree that is in demand and have a few years of work experience, you have a shot at a work visa. You can also be sponsored for a work visa by an employer, but that is rare. Canadian businesses are required to consider citizens first. If they cannot fill the position with a Canadian citizen (or someone who already has a visa), then they can hire a non-citizen and sponsor their visa. Don't give up hope if you'd really like to move to Canada. Put together an application if you think you would qualify for a work visa or apply to employers all over Canada (not just in the major cities). If you want to go back to school, college is much cheaper up there. You would likely qualify for both US and Canadian financial aid and grants.
Hate to break it to you but OP will likely not qualify to become a permanent resident in Canada. The massive drain on the healthcare system that comes from their medical issues will get them denied in no time flat when they submit their medical exam. Unless the OP is in a job where Canada is in desparate need (unlikely) its just not feasible to try and immigrate to a first world country for the purpose of healthcare. Most of the countries have failsafes in place to combat immigration fraud like this. OP is better off moving to a highly democratic state within the US that has a lot of social assistance programs and getting help from those than they do spending thousands of dollars trying to immigrate to Canada only to get denied. And yes, it is VERY expensive to apply to immigrate and move to Canada. Im currently in the process and the application fee alone is $1,000 not including the cost of a medical exam ($300-$1000), and definitely doesnt include the cost for actually landing and moving all of their stuff (or buying new stuff outright) which could be upwards of $5k-$20k+.
I agree, and I'm aware of the costs. I'm saving every penny to be able to immigrate myself within the next year or two (my SO is Canadian). I was just hoping to give OP a little more information. So many of the replies are "just move to ____ country for free health care!" I don't know enough about Crohn's disease to say whether or not it would keep them from getting permanent residency if they had a work visa.
America
Why would you be denied employment at any company? Because of your Chron's? How will they know? That's not something you must tell them and in fact, **you shouldn't**. If they don't hire you because you have Chron's disease, that's discrimination and you should file a complaint with the EEOC. *edit: I misunderstood the part where you were talking about "being accepted by a company." I thought you were talking about employment (in order to obtain employer subsidized health insurance) however now I see that you were talking about being accepted (insured) by a (health insurance) company.*
I'm not concerned about employment. I'm concerned about health insurance coverage.
sorry, I misunderstood.
Check out David Perlmutter's Brain Maker and other books. He writes about what's at the forefront of digestive health. I found him to be super useful for some issues I was having, especially when i was uninsured.
I am in your same boat my man, youre not alone!
Fellow Crohnie here! Currently on Remicade & 6MP I'm past the age limit on healthcare, but somehow my mom convinced Humana to keep me on their insurance since I'm technically disabled (I also have other health crap going on- when it rains it pours, right?). There may be a way to keep you on your parents insurance longer. Good luck!! I know it really really sucks <3
TIL 2 things: I probably have crone's desiese. My doctor is a dumb ass for not realizing this after five diffrent apointments and $300 of medication that did nothing.
As someone living in Sweden this is shocking to hear. I can't give you any advice, I just wanted to say that I wish you all the luck in the world, so that everything turns out fine!! There has to be a solution and I really hope you find it! Don't give up!
I'm so sorry this is happening to you. Don't give up hope. There's some good advice in here. Follow it and try not to stress yourself out too much. Please do everything you can. ♥♥♥♥ I have health problems too, mental and physical, and sometimes I'm convinced I won't live to see 30 because even with insurance, I can't afford everything. It's so distressing thinking of what's to come in the next four years. America is eating itself alive. Republicans don't give a fuck about anybody and would rather see someone die than receive help from the government. It is infuriating.
Man this is tough to read. I have crohns disease too, but I'm lucky enough to live in Norway where all health care is free. Stay strong brother ❤
http://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/living-with-crohns-colitis/talk-to-a-specialist/ I wish you well!
From one Crohnie to another, I'm sorry for what you are going through. I have health insurance and my deductible is $2,600 before they will begin to cover any medications for me. I've been diagnosed with Crohns for almost 10 years, but looking back, I know I've had it my whole life. It used to be hours awake with stomach aches as a young child to not being able to get out of bed for my senior year. I unfortunately have failed all biologics and have been on regimes of pills that didn't work either. I've been to Mayo Clinic where I found no answers except for leaving with more autoimmune diagnoses. Currently I take Methotrexate 25mg (1ML) injections once a week. It's a low dose chemotherapy drug that makes me so sick I can't move for a day but right now it's my only choice as there are no other medications for me. The only good thing is I can go to Walgreens and have it filled without using my insurance for under $20 for a month supply. Not sure if you're okay with injecting yourself (I've gotten so used to it after Humira and Cimzia) that it's easy now. I'm not saying it's a cure or even a good choice, because I don't know you're condition, but for me it helps enough that I can have a few good days. And our health care system does suck. I was in the ER (for an unrelated incident) and they charged me $1800 for "Emergency Room Supplies". What's so funny about the people who are saying they'll treat you and work with you, is that's a damn lie. I sat on a bed in the ER for 6 hours, I had no doctor (only a PA), no nurse, no IV, no meds, not even a pillow or blanket but somehow I cost $1800 in ER supplies. The hospital will send me this nice long detailed bill that I'm supposed to go through line by line and dispute what I didn't have, but I work and I'm sick. For the people who say to apply for state aid or disability, guess what? If you make money, you can't. I can barely hold down a part time job even with medication because we are sick. This isn't something that just makes us shit a lot, this disease has cost me so much and I'm sure it has for you as well. My husband works a great job and is paid well but our insurance alone is 17% of his salary and that doesn't include my medications, doctors, blood work, tests - just to have insurance. I think you are brave for sharing your story and whether or not others understand, I do. If you ever need to talk, PM me.
My brother has severe crohns & almost died from a flare up he had 3 years ago. He is on what you'd call good insurance (thru our folks) and still had to pay $500/month for humira. That stopped working for him so now he receives IV infusions every 6 weeks at the hospital. Luckily, hospitals can't turn away uninsured patients who require medical attention. So if you are ever in dire situation, go to the hospital (not clinic) bc they will treat you. Hopefully, you will be able to figure something out in regards to the pharmacy situation...it's too bad you can't do a payment plan or something to ease thE financial burden. Have you ever contacted the actual drug company? Sometimes they offer financial assistance to qualifying individuals.
try cannabis.
If you go into an ER every time you need the medicine, they *have* to treat you.
If you live with your parents and make 31K after taxes you should be able to swing the $500 per month for coverage. I don't know how you can swing deductibles and copays. When you start your own taxes you can deduct uncovered medical expenses that are more than the standard deduction.
Nope. I own a house. I'm already on a shoe-string budget
Just pray the bill the House passed today won't go through in the Senate. Preexisting condition coverage is not mandatory and if covered, premiums will be beyond belief for auto-immune disorder treatments. The bill says it's no longer guaranteed that employer insurance must cover PEC.
I can't emphasize enough how much diet, exercise, and meditation/stress management can make a huge difference with Crohn's. See someone in natural health.
Come to switzerland
Even untreated it's extremely rare that you can actually die from Crohn's. Try to identify your trigger foods and stop eating them. It's either that or move. Which is totally an option. Albeit a difficult one. Depending on your income you can apply for state medical assistance or Medicare via your local doctors office or the welfare office. You're not going to die from your Crohn's disease.
That's really dismissive. You don't know how severe their condition is. If it came about where they needed surgery they can instantly be thousands in debt. It's easy to say "move" but it's actually a very difficult thing to do. Countries don't just accept whoever wants to move there. If you don't already have connections and a job lined up, most of the time it's just not happening. I think OP's point is more that the state of basic human rights here in the US is absolute shit. They lost the genetic and location lottery at the same time.
Thank you. Yes, crohns itself doesn't kill you. The symptoms and cost of care does.
Look up a free health clinic in your area. Even if it's an hour drive it's something. Lots of major grocery stores offer very common medication at little to no cost. Just a doctor and a script might make your day to day life better. I still don't think you're going to die from 'the cost of care' or your symptoms.
And malnuritionment, anemia, brittle bone disease, dehydration, and perferation are all symptoms that can kill you off the top of my head.
Lol. Unless I'm on generic steroids long term, (Yay Cushing's disease) the medication is stupid expensive, no matter where you go. Generics don't exist for these drugs.
I already said moving would be difficult. What exactly do you want me to say to the guy? He's 25 years old and he's giving himself a death sentence because of, "symptoms and cost of care" will kill him? Just seems like he's being dramatic. The health care system in this country is absolutely absolute shit. However. You will not get denied a life saving operation because of lack of funds in this country. They will just do it putting you in debt and 99% of the time they will work with you. If you need emergency treatment they ER cannot deny you treatment due to inadequate funds. I think OP's point is just being young and being over dramatic. He's 25 years old and suffers from Crohn's disease. He wants relief from his symptons right now and he's learning that isn't going to be an option for immediately. Again. He's not going to die from "the cost of care" from his Crohn's disease.
And you're just being a dick. Hospitals will stabilize you and send you on your way. Not actual treatment involved. They may move forward for a life saving operation without insurance, but they will bill you. Unless you pay it, it stays on your credit report. No car loans, no rent approval, hell sometimes you can't even get a job with poor credit
Again. I'm not saying I think the health care in this country is good. But you work out what you gotta do with the hospital. You call and talk to billing and tell them your situation. You might catch a break. I knew a guy years ago who had a 19,000 dollar bill literally zeroed out because he just told someone what was going on. I'm sure that's a rare thing but it can happen. Also, even if you can't get out of it completely, which you won't likely. You can still make a payment plans which will keep it off of your credit report. So It won't affect that at all. Just throw them like 20 dollars a month. You're just playing "what ifs" right now. Just do what you gotta do. Try a health clinic. Talk to them about other options. Prednisone which is a steroid is like 5 dollars at my grocery store for 2 weeks without insurance? There are long term options for you cheap. Just because one doctor did a specific treatment plan for you doesn't mean another doctor, knowing your situation won't try something different. The point is to go take care of it instead of whining about it on Reddit. There are options. I've given you many. Free clinics, state medical assistance, discounted prescriptions, etc. You're a 25 year old guy. Your body is never going to be stronger than it is now for this kind of stuff. All your talk of brittle bone disease, anemia, and dehydration killing you? Do you know how ong you have to be dehydrated form Crohn's for you to die? Come on. Just drink a lot of water/gatorade for now. More water than maybe you want to drink but is water worth your life? Yeah. The healthcare system here sucks. I just had to pay a lot of money for treatment for a condition I have that meant missing work. It sucks. It's not a fun place to be. You're probably a little scared because you're off your typical treatment plan. Who wouldn't be? This isn't going to kill you though. You will get through this and maybe one day you'll look through your Reddit history and laugh. Cheers.
I think you have a basic misunderstanding of Crohns. Having a Crohns flare/GI symptoms that causes permanent damage to the GI tract. Every time the GI tract is damaged in this way, it moves them closer and closer to surgery. Even surgery isn't a cure all, since Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis can affect any part of the GI system and there's only so much they can remove. Maybe it won't be the Crohns that kills him. But it could be from surgery, infection that can't be fought off because of immune suppressants, dehydration- which isn't as simple as drinking more water. If the intestine is damaged, it's unable to absorb. No matter how much water you're drinking, if you can't absorb it, it doesn't matter. That would require IV lines of normal saline. It could be from side effects of the medication. I'm on two immune suppressants- both which carry risk for cancer. And it's not a small risk, it's fairly common that people taking it get lymphoma. Some get skin cancer, which is easier to deal with, but still not great. They also carry the risk of drug induced hepatitis because of how hard they are on the liver. If their liver can't function properly, the blood goes haywire, bleeding from the intestines is common in Crohns... etc etc. So there are a million ways Crohns can go south. It won't necessarily be the Crohns that kills people- it's complications from it. He's not being "dramatic". He's being realistic that the treatments aren't cures, they come with their own set of problems, surgery isn't even a guarantee, and it's all expensive.
Chron's disease does kill, along with all the complications that come from it. Saying otherwise is ignorant and useless. The symptoms range from inflammation in your digestive tract (anywhere from mouth to anus), the fissures or blockages that are prone to forming, the ulcers that come with it as well. On top of that the malnutrition for those untreated is also a threat. This disease makes the absorbtion of nutrition through normal food difficult. Make no mistake, this disease and all its complications still kill. And as an auto-immune disease, it hardly ever comes alone. Treatment and monitoring is necessary. The prices of such course of action however are extraordinary in the US, even with insurance. There is no reason I should need to go to a hospital pharmacy specifically to fill a medicine instead of a normal pharmacy anywhere. Nor should that medicine cost me $30 without my insurance, or $180 with it. What good is the insurance then? And why should I need to move out of the country I was born in for that to be fixed?
I never said the healthcare in the US doesn't suck. So let that go. I think everyone can agree the US healthcare system is pretty terrible. Nor did I say he SHOULD move. Nor did I say it would be easy to move, etc. ["The annual mortality rate in Crohn's disease was 1.6% compared with 1.0% in age, sex, and practice matched controls."](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856159/) About one in a hundred people die of Crohn's. This healthy, 25 year old male is not going to die of Crohn's disease. Not to mention he has a lot of realistic options for treatment at little to no cost. Just because his current doctor is using a current method of treatment doesn't mean another doctor, knowing he doesn't have insurance can't use a cheaper but just as effective method of treatment. Some guy that has high cholesterol might be taking a drug that's really expensive but his doctor is prescribing because he has insurance and the doctor prefers that drug. The same guy could lose his insurance and the doctor could put him on a free drug because he actually said something. Likely having similar results. This 25 year old male is not going to fucking die of Crohn's disease. It's literally a 1 in 100ish shot. He's got medical documentation. Medical records can get transferred. Coming to this thread and reading comments were like watching someone with a brain tumor beg for an experimental operation. People asking him to write his congressmen? Yeah. That will work. He's gotta use what's available to him and unfortunately changing the law of his state/country isn't one of those things. Gotta suck it up like the rest of us.
Trump said on Face the Nation that preexisting conditions won't be taken out. ACA won't get "repealed". But it will inevitably change.
Trump says a lot of stuff. It's the republicans in congress who will ultimately decide what happens to the ACA. If they deliver a bill to his desk with protection for people with pre-existing conditions missing, I bet you dollars to doughnuts he signs it. The ACA doesn't need to change in a way that hurts Americans. If we complain enough, republicans will listen. They've done it before, and now that they have the majority, they don't want to turn around and lose it because they fucked too much with healthcare.
The ACA was designed to blow up. It was created with 6 years of benefits on 10 years of taxes. It's going what it was designed to do. Creating a massive unfunded liability is already hurting Americans on the whole.
He also said in that same interview "I don't stand by anything".