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.
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Jeff
Honolulu, HI
In February I was between jobs and lost my health care insurance for 2 weeks. In that time I got extremely sick with strep throat and only went to the doctor when I started vomitting out of fear that I might choke to death. I looked into sliding scale clinics before, but since I made $22,000/year I was over their limit and would've had to pay $100 I didn't have just to see the doctor. Late one night I had to be rushed to the emergency room because of my temperature and vomitting. After the visit I filled out paperwork to receive temporary health coverage from the State, but I was denied because I made $34/month more than the limit. Now I'm stuck with the bills from that sickness - $1000 in debt on top of the credit card, school, and State and Federal taxes I'm already trying to juggle while making just enough to get by. People shouldn't have to become economic slaves just because they want to live healthy for another day.
*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.
