How to Get Funding for Crohn's Disease Treatments
Crohn's disease is a chronic malfunction of the gastrointestinal (GI) system that requires ongoing medication and, in some cases, surgery. These treatments are necessary to ease symptoms and repair GI damage, so that patients can get on with their everyday lives. Coping with Crohn's disease includes finding a way to pay for therapies over time. There are many ways to get help in funding these medically necessary treatments.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Access to your health care plan agreement
- Records for your tax-deferred savings investments
Instructions
-
Determine the Cost of Treatments
-
1
Add up your current expenses for Crohn's disease medications. Include out-of-pocket costs for nonprescription pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, anti-inflammatory agents, such as sulfasalazine, or immune-system drugs, such as azathioprine or infliximab.
-
2
Figure the cost of office calls and lab work. Include co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses that insurance doesn't cover, such as acupuncture.
-
-
3
List maintenance medications and their costs, such as laxatives, anti-diarrheals or nutritional supplements. These may be used sporadically, so try to project a yearly figure.
-
4
Find out whether your doctor recommends surgery in the near or distant future, and how much it will cost. Check your health-plan literature or contact an administrator for specific dollar figures.
Get Funding for Treatments
-
5
Locate organizations online that offer research and support for Crohn's disease. Some may fund medical grants for individuals or have links to other groups that do.
-
6
Approach funding sources in your community, such as local United Way or private charities that focus on medical benefits.
-
7
Learn how to access funding from your IRA or other tax-deferred investment that allows for medical emergencies. Check with your account administrator.
-
8
Compile funding from several sources to raise your chances of securing grants and to pay for your overall treatments.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Seventy-five percent of Crohn's disease patients will need at least one surgery to repair damage to the GI tract.
The best way to find new funding sources is to plug into the Crohn's disease network. Participate in online chats or join a support group that meets regularly in your area.
If you are considering participating in clinical trials to save money, do so only under the close supervision of your own doctor. She'll be able to best manage any new drug in conjunction with what you are already taking for Crohn's disease and any other health issues.
Quick results are not guaranteed for your funding investment. Different people respond differently to various drugs, and it may take time to find out whether a dosage or a particular medication is effective for you.
