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Diagnosed stage pt4b and no health insurance – recommended resources?
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Diagnosed stage pt4b and no health insurance – recommended resources?

› Forums › Cutaneous Melanoma Community › Diagnosed stage pt4b and no health insurance – recommended resources?

  • Post
    • June 20, 2018 at 10:41 pm
    rainrrr
    Participant

      I am 32 years old and live in FL. I was diagnosed with nodular melanoma pt4b. I have no health insurance, is anyone aware of resources? I know I need treatment immediately,  the growth started around 5 months ago. I have an apt on 6/28 for a consultation with a surgeon, I know I need will node lymph node testing and likely imaging. Please any information would be good, I am very scared. 

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    • Replies
        • June 21, 2018 at 1:18 pm
        happyfeet123
        Participant

          I would first start with social services in your local area.  You might qualify for medicaid.  This is usually based on your family income.  If you don't qualify they should be able to refer you the healthcare exchange in your area.  Usually, they have an advocate that will assist you thru the process.  Also, have you talked to your doctor about this?  They should be able to provide resources to you.  Has your doctor's office discussed with you financially arrangements regarding payments?  Finally, try the American Cancer Society, they have lot's of resources.  Be patient, the process can sometimes be frustrating.  Ask everyone that is assisting you for resources.  Unfortunately, some employees are more knowledgeable regarding resouces in your community.  I wish you the best.  

            • June 21, 2018 at 3:23 pm
            caman
            Participant

              I found this bit of info…Hill-Burton Hospital Program. Hospitals that receive construction funds from the federal government must provide some services to cancer patients who can't afford to pay for their care. Approximately 300 hospitals take part in this program. Call (800) 638-0742 to find the closest participating hospital.

              • June 21, 2018 at 11:09 pm
              rainrrr
              Participant

                Thank you for your efforts. I have been making calls but, resources are in short supply. I will definitely  look into the Hill-Burton program. Although I have read that the governor here has done a large budget cut. But thank you again.

                • June 21, 2018 at 11:13 pm
                rainrrr
                Participant

                  Thank you for the advice.  I have been trying to get something through the county but, was not given due process (never called my employer to verify the income I reported or sent me a denial letter) I am hoping to try to apply again. Medicaid services for cancer can be tough as doctors here don't take it or have long wait times but, I will keep trying. 

                • June 22, 2018 at 1:21 am
                BillB
                Participant

                  Hi, depending on the treatment if you need yervoy or opdivo. , or Keytruda both Bristol-Myers Squibb and Merck  have assistance programs for you to receive those drugs. If I had went on yervoy Bristol-Myers Squibb was going to donate the drug. I had the approval letter from BMS.  Your oncologist can fill out and submit theaperwork with you signatures. hope this helps,

                  Bill

                    • June 22, 2018 at 1:36 am
                    dessie
                    Participant

                      Have you tried Moffitt in Tampa?  They have loads of clinical trials and some charity care too.

                      Good luck and keep fighting!!

                      Dessie

                      • June 23, 2018 at 7:44 am
                      rainrrr
                      Participant

                        I just called them today to see if they can give me a consultation. Thank you for your help.

                        • June 23, 2018 at 7:42 am
                        rainrrr
                        Participant

                          Thank you for the advice Bill, really hoping I won't need them but,not holding my breath.

                          • June 23, 2018 at 3:45 pm
                          BillB
                          Participant

                            Hi, I too was pt4b nodular melanoma. Good luck!

                            Bill

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