Seeking Guidance
I’m reaching out for advice on behalf of my girlfriend (31) who is currently facing a challenging situation in Florida.
She has been working cash-in-hand for her father’s business while caring for her son. Unfortunately, she is on Medicaid and requires regular infusions due to a genetic kidney condition she has dealt with since childhood.
Compounding her difficulties, my girlfriend is having serious issues with her father, who is abusive, and she needs to find a new job. However, she’s concerned about the 90-day waiting period for health insurance coverage at any new company. During this time, she could lose her Medicaid benefits and is worried about being able to access her life-saving medications.
Is there any way for her to maintain coverage for her treatment during the gap between starting a new position and when her company insurance begins?
I’d greatly appreciate any advice or resources that could guide us in the right direction. If any part of this message needs clarification, I’m more than willing to provide additional details in the comments.
Thank you for your help.
I’m really sorry to hear about your girlfriend’s situation; it sounds incredibly difficult. Here are some steps and resources she could consider to help navigate this tough time:
Contact Medicaid for Guidance: She should reach out to her local Medicaid office as soon as possible to discuss her specific situation. Medicaid sometimes has provisions for continuous care, and they may have options for her to maintain coverage temporarily even if she starts a job.
Consider Short-Term Health Insurance: There are short-term health insurance plans that might bridge the gap between job start and employer insurance. While these plans can vary in coverage, some may help with necessary treatments or prescriptions during the interim period.
Look into COBRA: If her father’s business offers a group insurance plan, she might be eligible to continue that coverage for a limited time under COBRA, though this may come at a higher cost.
Speak to a Social Worker: She could benefit from talking to a social worker who can provide information about healthcare options, including resources aimed at individuals with chronic conditions. They can also help guide her through applying for assistance programs.
Patient Assistance Programs: Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs for individuals who may have trouble affording their medications. Your girlfriend should check with the manufacturers of her medications to see if they have any assistance available.
Community Health Centers: These centers often provide services on a sliding scale based on income and can help with continuous care for both her and her son. They may also have connections to resources related to her kidney condition.
Advocacy Groups: Organizations related to her specific kidney condition often have resources, financial assistance, and advice on navigating insurance and healthcare options. They may also offer support groups where she can share her experiences and get advice.
Encourage her to advocate for herself, as difficult as it may be, and remind her that she doesn’t have to do this alone. Surrounding herself with support from friends, family, or local support groups can also make a difference. Your care and concern will undoubtedly help her through this challenging time.