I am Bi-polar. Is there a way to get my meds from Canada or Mexico?

[DuaneBidoux]

I am getting a divorce and am freaking out about how to deal with this issue. I have been on my wife's policy for the last 22 years. I'm terrified and would probably last 3 months max without my meds before a suicide. I should mention that I attempted suicide last July and since have not had a job--but I figure any new job will not cover me because of pre-existing conditions. DAMN I want socialized medicine.

[DemExpat]

1. The second post here has someone's experiences trying to get Meds....

http://my.epilepsy.com/?q=node/898073/901107

So sorry to hear of your predicament.

Hope some others here have more substantial advice for you in this situation, DB.

:hug:

DemEx

[Lorien]

2. Personally, I'd scrap the meds and give this a try:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=276&topic_id=1649&mesg_id=1649

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=276x2811

it's extremely effective against bi-polar disorder, it's a one time cost, and there are no side effects.

[Bluerthanblue]

3. depending on what you are on,

several of the large pharmaceutical companies have what is called "Patient Assistance"-
It is how I get 2 of my expensive meds- and also the 'name brand' of less outrageously expensive ones.
Many older folks and medicaid folks are being removed from the program, because they qualify for the "new drug plan"- for once, I'm glad not to be among them.
Look up your meds "creator"- veneflexine=Effexor which comes through Merck and see what companies may offer your meds at no cost to you.
I agree with you- we Need TO HAVE some kind of 'safety net' for those of us, who cannot afford our lifesaving meds, and cannot get traditional insurance due to 'pre-existing conditions', and the impossible cost of any 'private insurance'- even if it were available.
We're willing to spend all sorts of money fighting 'terrorism'- but the likelihood of anyone of us as individuals actually becoming the victim of a terrorist attack are pretty frickin slim. The likelihood of anyone of us as individuals being faced with a devastating illness or injury are pretty damn high- and yet the attitude is- "hey, who cares"-

I understand your situation- Please let your PDoc know what is going on- many time they can give you samples to keep you on level ground until something else can be figured out- and If you have enough Social Security credits, you should be able to be on disability, - not sure how the medicaid D will do to you though.

I wish you the best- don't lose hope- there are professionals out there who want to help, and will do everything they can to make sure you don't risk going off your meds- You have to ask though- something that isn't 'easy' for many of us-
If I can be of help, don't hesitate to PM me-

wish you comfort and peace-

blu

[Pugee]

4. These patient assistance plans can be time consuming to get on.

There is a place that will do the calling for you. You fill out the form, with $5 and send it to them. They place all the calls for you. If you do not qualify for the program, they will refund your $5. I have the forms at work, but I pick them up on the brochure wall at the SS office, so you can probably find them around.

[zanne]

5. I think it depends on where you live.

I'm on a Patient Assistance program. There are a few volunteers who work out of hospitals who will do the paperwork for you. It does take a bit of time, but you could save alot of money. Since Medicare Part D came along, a couple of pharmaceutical companies have dropped their free meds programs. But I'm still getting the most expensive ones at no cost, thank God. (And they do cover Psych meds). I would suggest that you ask your doctor or call your local hospital for info. It could really help in your situation. Best of luck and God bless.