No insurance coverage for prescription drugs

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lariowhite
lariowhite Member Posts: 2
edited June 2014 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Hi Friends,

   This is my first posting.  I'm 62, Caucasian, triple neg and plenty scared.  I've had my lumpectomy.  I went to start treatment, but the oncologist thought I should have a mastectomy and lymph dissection.  Second opinion said I didn't need it. So I am about ready to start chemo.

 We have catastrophic insurance which doesn't include prescription drugs.  Can you give me an idea of what kind of drugs I will need to buy and how expensive they are?   It's a bummer to have to worry about money while we are trying to get well, but it's life.

   I'm so glad to know that this group is available.  I'll have lots of questions.

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  • concernedsis
    concernedsis Member Posts: 256
    edited August 2009

    Lariowhite - does your insurance cover your injectibles ie the chemo? Thats pricey stuff. Pending on your chemo you may need shots to boost your immunity - they are very expensive - neulasta can exceed $5000. Ask your insurance for a case manager. As for oral meds - what you will need will depend on you specific chemo - likely antinausea meds - some like compazine can be inexpensive but something like emend can be pricey. Definitely save all receipts for unreimbursed medical - at the very least you can deduct it off your taxes. Try the social worker at your oncologist and see if you qualify for any programs. When you know the drugs - call the Partnership for Prescription Drug Assistance 1-866-4PPA-NOW they can tell you if the specific drugs have patient assistance programs or if you qualify for local stuff - NY has EPIC - elderly pharmaceutical prescription insurance coverage for example - so maybe your state does too. Also check with your local pharmacy and see if they have a plan. Good luck!!!

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  • dreaming
    dreaming Member Posts: 473
    edited August 2009

    The price of drugs are very high without prescription and with one also depends on the insurance some can have copayment that is high or low.

    The companies that provide medicines for cancer patients some times based on your need will help you, but really one has to be indigent.

    Try to contact one with the Social worker where you are being treated, your doctor also needs to get involved.

    What makes be angry about this problems for Legal Residents or citizens is that if you would not have a social security number [being illegal] all your treatment would be free in a County Hospital.

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  • lariowhite
    lariowhite Member Posts: 2
    edited August 2009

    Thanks so much for all of your thoughts on this topic.  I'll start by talking to the social worker and going to some of the sites you all suggested.   This whole thing is a bit overwhelming.

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