What do you do if a patient can't afford the healthcare they need?

Understanding what programs/options are available to you can be helpful, but often these programs are not easily identified, marketed, or are quite difficult to navigate and/or maintain once identified. Many hospitals will have a behavioral health integration team with knowledgeable case managers, social workers, patient/peer advocates, or legal advocates; additionally, local non-profit organizations or your local health department, and/or Senior Services, American Legion etc may also have members or volunteers that can assist in gaining understanding on just how to apply for and keep these benefits.

Assuming alternative treatment options have been explored, check available resources. Do you know the options offered by your state for disadvantaged patients? What about the treatment manufacturer? Many have programs to enroll in for discounted meds and DME. Also, inquire with disease-specific non-profits. Many of them have foundations or grants that support patient needs, and if not, they know other organizations that might.

Policy coverage changes occur very often and usually without much warning or disclosure from the insurance company. Being proactive on reviewing your policy and what is covered/not covered is very important, especially prior to any big-ticket procedure as it can be too easy to believe you are covered for a procedure only to find out afterward that it no longer is covered or that the healthcare provider you are working with now is not in-network so it will cost even more money. Speak with your insurance company agent often in order to ensure you know what is and is not covered, and also if you have any questions regarding a billing statement.

Needymeds.org & RxAssist.org are must know resourse in the USA, repositories of coupons and assistance programs. The MD office maybe be able to help with free samples. The .orgs for diseases also have lists of scholarships. The State health departments have funding for public health disease management check StateRxplan.us The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics has a list of pharmacies that have assistance programs. If the drug is a health plan exception (not covered at all) a call to the patients HR at work to request a plan override is also an option. The employer/health plan makes the decision as to if they want to pay for it. There are combi drugs that can be taken as it's individual (generic) components.

Prevention and wellness is a key strategy to reduce long-term healthcare costs. This involves fostering healthy habits, educating about disease prevention, and offering preventive services like screenings and vaccinations. Staying updated with the latest healthcare research can help patients access new, potentially more effective or cost-efficient treatments and technologies. Every patient’s situation is unique. So, it’s crucial to consider all options and make decisions based on the individual patient’s needs, preferences, and circumstances. Open and honest communication about options and potential costs can help patients make informed decisions about their care, potentially reducing the financial stress associated with healthcare costs.

Probably, if hospitals cut down number of pills they provide as a standard of care rather than individualized treatments, it may cut down medical bills to some extent.