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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Carrie
Burlington, WA
Unfortunately, I was unable to get the health care or the medications I needed to manage my anxiety after my daughter was born. After I finally found a medication that worked for me, I received a letter from Blue Cross stating that I was costing them too much money and they were "kicking me out of the program"...they moved me onto the State Program which did not cover the medication I was taking...therefore, I lived untreated for approximately 6 of the past 8 years. Of course the medication was way too expensive for me to afford on my own.
Even during part of the time, my husband got us healthcare, the deductable was so high, I couldn't afford the copayments...AND the only way we could qualify, was if I signed a waiver stating that I would not use mental health benefits.
Finally, in 2006, I got shingles - we had insurance for my daughter at that point, but not for ourselves...my mom ended up having to pay for all of my medical bills...approximately $5000...do you know how humilating it is to go somewhere and say you do not have insurance...you are going to pay privately? They have to pause for a minute...and figure out what to do??? Nobody knew quite what to do with me. It was a very awkward feeling.
Because of my experience, I support any effort to have universal healthcare as soon as possible.
*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.
