These stories come from the real people who live with a broken health care system. Some have health insurance and some do not. Many of these stories suggest potential solutions* that lead to quality, affordable health care we can count on. One thing we all agree on is that the we cannot trust the insurance industry to fix themselves. To learn more about what Health Care for America Now stands for read our Statement of Common Purpose.
We wanted to give you a chance to speak for yourself, in your own voice, about the need for Health Care for America Now. Do you have something to say? Tell us your story.
for
Martha
Los Angeles, CA
I was just diagnosed with a second, different breast cancer. I am fortunate since I am covered by Medicare and a supplemental which is paid for by my employer throughout my retirement. It includes a very good pharmaceutical plan as well.
I cannot begin to estimate what this whole procedure would have cost if I were not insured. It started with a routine yearly mammogram, a second magnified mammogram and ultrasound, a core biopsy, an MRI, genetic testing, surgery to remove the tumor, a second surgery to insert a "balloon" for radiation which will occur next Thursday and then radiation and follow-up.
Fortunately for me the tumor was only 1.1 cm and the margins were clear.
My question is "How many women forgo a mammogram because of the cost?" It would have been a long time before I could have felt this tumor and then the treatment would have been more costly and the prognosis not as good.
*Health Care for America Now is not responsible for the content of these stories. These stories are submitted by individuals in the online audience and have been edited in some cases. Health Care For America Now does not endorse any of the solutions or policy positions suggested in the content of these stories. Health Care for America Now is a coalition of organizations that agree to the Statement of Common Purpose.
See our coalition partner list.
Read the Statement of Common Purpose.
