Not sure what to do

I have been having spells where I get very pale, memory loss, fluttering heart and then I black out or almost black out. Dr saw on PM interogation lots of v-tach episodes and the dates coincided with my symptom journal dates. They were runs of non sustained and one sustained. I had a tilt table test, it was neg. Now I am being scheduled for EP study with poss ICD implantation. I am totally dependent on my pacer. My concern is that I do not have insurance, lost it because I could not afford the $700 a month cobra payment. So if I have to have the ICD put in, that is going to be a whopping bill to have to pay. I get 60 percent off at the hospital because we fall into the income guidelines for writeoffs. But still 60 percent off, lets say 50K is still a lot of money. I guess I am wondering if there is a medication I can take first. But dr says no meds are as good as the ICD. My mom has an ICD for the same thing I have.
I am afraid I am taking my family on a financial highway to hell. But I am scared not to do it because afraid of ventricular fibrillation.
What would you all do in this situation?
Debbi

3 Comments

Tough Decision

by ela-girl - 2008-03-04 08:03:46

It is a sad day when people have to choose between health and life or to keep their financial stability. I know that countries with universal health plans still have their issues, but the US needs to do something to help its citizens. NO ONE should be put in this situation.

I'm sure if you choose the ICD, your family will understand and support you. Heck, they want you around! But saying that, I understand why you are feeling the way that you do.

I choose life! After all, it's only money, right?! I mean, if you're not around to spend it, why does it matter? Seriously, though...I wish I had more I could say to help you. Sounds like this condition may run in your family? How is you mom faring with the ICD treatment?

Keep us posted,
ela-girl

Health Service

by staffie - 2008-03-05 01:03:21

It just shows how lucky we are in the UK with our National Health Service.
We give it a really hard time, but when you read of issues like this, I'm glad we have it to fall back on......

I feel a bit better now...

by gmnordy - 2008-03-06 02:03:27

I talked at length with the financial person at the hospital. She assured me that they would work with me on monthly payments, and that they would not have to be anything huge, as long as they were reasonable. So I am going to go have the study done. Please pray for me that I dont have to have the ICD. Thank you
Debbi

You know you're wired when...

You always have something close to your heart.

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