Facing high diabetes treatment costs, Apple Health (Medicaid) saves the day
Jamie VanDusen
When Jamie was 24, she found out she was diabetic. The news sent her into a panic.
Jamie knew she couldn’t afford the out-of-pocket costs for insulin. She also suffered from other ailments related to diabetes, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The medications she would need every month were in the thousands of dollars.
The job she had at the time of her diagnosis paid minimum wage and didn’t provide health care. Jamie was scared and didn’t know where to turn for help.
Fortunately, her doctor got her in touch with the financial advisor at the hospital, who helped Jamie apply for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid). She wasn’t sure she would qualify, and was relieved when she found out she was eligible for free or low-cost health care coverage.
“Apple Health has helped lift a huge financial burden off my shoulders and provided me with an excellent care team to get my health in order,” said Jamie. “I’m now 30 and getting my diabetes managed, and not having to worry about how I can afford my next insulin pen.”
Jamie wanted to share her story of how Apple Health helped her to make others aware of the health care program and encourage them to apply.
“There’s no shame in asking for help,” she said. “Especially if you have a chronic condition or disability.”
To learn more about free or low-cost health care coverage or to see if you qualify, visit Washington Healthplanfinder.