Medication in America

[MarshallVeniar]

Hello Guys,

I am 21 and have just graduated from university. I have CF and live in England where, as a result of the NHS, I have always received my medication free. I have made plans to study in New York next year but I am concerned about paying a fortune for medication. Is there anybody who has been in a similar situation and knows any way to get round forking out for every presciption in the States? Perhaps someone knows of an insurance company who will insure CF patients in this circumstance. I have American citizenship if that changes the situation at all.

I would be grateful for any knowledge on this topic.
Thanks a lot guys,

Marsh x

 

[anonymous]

You should check into the university and see what kind of plans they offer. I highly doubt you will get your meds for free. We pay a deductible ($500) plus %20 coinsurance (up to an additional $2500) for healthcare. Then we pay a percentage of the meds up to $2500 (which we will always hit). So for our son we pay about $6000 a year (because we still have to add on copays for office visits on top of all that). Whatever insurance you get, look closely at the deductible and out of pocket. The med plan could be cheaper depending on how they structure it, but if they do it in terms of percentages rather than flat rates, expect to pay the full out of pocket. Also when looking into health plans, see how long you have to wait to meet your preexisting condition terms (usually about 6 months).
Sorry, I don't have anything specific about a particular plan. I just wanted to give you an idea of what we pay out of pocket with our insurance plan (through my husbands work). It is considered a "good" plan. United Healthcare PPO

good luck!
Jena
4yr old son with cf