My cousin Debbie 44 years old was diagnosed with breast cancer (in both breasts) in February 2009. Beacuse of insurance she could not have her mastectomy until June 2009. Now she is trying to determine if she will need chemo (yes they have dragged this another 2 months)and the lab is holding her results because the insurance company did not pay. I am so sick to think that this is happening. It boarders on cruel and inhuman treatment don't you agree? If anyone out there can help PLEASE email me @ isobel.mcdonald@gmail.com. Thank you!!!!!
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Q: I have a very unbelievable story and I don't know where to turn so I'll start here.
Answers (3)
8/13/09 12:48pm
Isobel, I've never heard of a hospital refusing treatment in what can border on a emergency, life-or-death situation like this. It IS unbelievable. Please have her present her story to the social services department at the hospital where she's treated; they're the experts in figuring out how to best deal with all of the parts that go into healing a patient, including the financial aspects. Good luck -PJH
8/13/09 1:29pm
hi im nanette a stage 2 cancer survivor of 2 years. i had no insurance. i am appalled att the way your cousiin is being treated. but, ive been screwed ,sorry, soooooooo bad i had to write. i got on the indigent insurance at broward general hospital in ft lauderdale florida. it was 8 LONG months before i even had my single masectomy. i opted for bilateral masectomy and was told NO. i had NO say in the matter of these ass wipes. my mom died at 57 and my sister was recently diagnosed with stage 2, but, is a teacher and has insurance. i cried when i found out how badly i was treated, now im ANGRY. these drs need to get their stuff togther and push for your cousin and the rest of us women. if it were a mans disease, this wouldnt be happening........... i was only 43 at diagnosis. all i can say is these people will pay, God doesnt like ugly. God Bless and the best of luck. FIGHT, BE AGRESIVE.................
8/13/09 1:41pm
you go........... you wont get results if you dont............. good luck.......... and i just wanted to tell you my indigent insurance is not medicaid. i pay co-pays and thousands of dollars in medical bills. i may file for bankruptcy. america, wake up......... my sister is going to lose her home even though she has insurance.
8/13/09 8:51pm
PJ's suggestion to start with the social worker at the hospital is a good one. They usually know the local resources and hospital policies best. However, if that doesn't work out, have your cousin contact the local Susan Komen for the Cure or American Cancer Society office. They will also have a good list of local resources for people in Debbie's situation.
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By Isobel— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 08/13/09
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Thank you!!! I am sick of this as well ... I just finished a letter to the NYS Attorney General and have reached out on forums such as this. We'll keep fighting ...