Question about Health Care for Uninsured (Topical!) (painful, health issue, surgery)

[wsobchak]

I have a long-standing health issue, but haven't had health insurance in 10 years.

I have recently developed a painful condition that could be life-threatening (or at least limb amputating) if not treated.

At this point, I have no idea what health care costs are, or the most effective way to solicit treatment.

An obvious answer would be to simply visit an internist (and sell my house). Yes, I made a choice - live in a shack in a safe area without health insurance, or live in a studio apartment in an unsafe area and have health insurance. Health insurance or mortgage.


I am looking for alternatives. I am not looking for free health care (I don't qualify because I'm not a member of Congress).

Are there walk-in clinics? Nurse practitioners? Any lower-cost alternative to a doctor?

The good news is that Joe Lieberman has health insurance. That's a relief.

[NCyank]

Yes, there are some walk in clinics at CVS but if it's something serious I think I'd not go to CVS.

Did you do an internet search for clinics? This was the first to pop up for me but there are others.
http://www.firstcarecanhelp.com/inde.../site.home.cfm


Also, CALL the Dr.s office and at least see what it will cost for them to see you. It may be more reasonable than you are assuming.

[megan722]

There is always the health department and there is another free clinic off of 5th Street downtown in the United Family Services building there. Good luck to you and hope you get better.

[Hopes]

Was this thread moved from another city or state forum?

If so, I'm not sure why since the OP clearly is trying to find treatment options in her own city. Plus, laws are different from state to state.

For instance, I could recommend that it's okay to seek treatment and then make monthly payments afterwards.

However, some state laws actually allow people to be sued for past due medical bills.

My state isn't that way.

[NCyank]

Originally Posted by Hopes

Was this thread moved from another city or state forum?

Yes, it was moved and I'm not sure why. OP originally posted for Charlotte, NC.

[Hopes]

I recommend the OP starts a new thread in the Charlotte, NC forum that's titled "Healthcare options available in Charlotte" or something like that.

If it's more clear that it's an area specific question, I would hope the mods will be less likely to move it.

[mjmama]

Have you checked this website? North Carolina Health Insurance

Good luck!

[BestintheWest]

If this doesn't scare the h*ll out of you nothing will.

Health Reform Subsidy Calculator -- Premium Assistance for Coverage in Exchanges/Gateways

[grannynancy]

Originally Posted by aliveandwellinSA

If this doesn't scare the h*ll out of you nothing will.

Health Reform Subsidy Calculator -- Premium Assistance for Coverage in Exchanges/Gateways

OMG. I almost spit out my coffee.
My husband is right - this is all about getting more money to insurance companies - not about health insurance.

MY cost would more than double if my employer chose to opt out and the people working in my home helping care for my mother........well dang .......I can already buy them private pay cheaper than that nonsense. [and that is all after the subsidy]

[subwayfan]

Another solution would be go overseas or to South America, pay cash and get the surgery/treatment done there, where it maybe less than 1/4th of the cost.