DEAR DR. GOTT:
I haves suffered from seizures for over 25 years and have traveled to see many specialists at the Mayo Clinic, the Cleveland Clinic, IU Medical Center and the Emory University Neurology Department without success. Fortunately, a local neurologist determined a “cocktail” of medications that have kept me seizure free for over six years. Different trials with generic anticonvulsants have proved unsuccessful. Unfortunately, my insurance is about to expire. My husband is about to retire and on Medicare, but I have several years before I am eligible for Medicare.
Blood tests and the cost of my medications are beyond what we can afford. I tried several avenues of contacting drug insurance companies and with the Montel Williams Program, but was turned down.
Do you have any suggestions on how to afford the only effective treatment I have found? Naturally, seizures are often stress-related and this is causing me great stress.
DEAR READER:
You are certainly in a predicament. Your local neurologist has concocted the only solution that works.
You are on a combination of three anti-seizure medications that are manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies. Specifically, Keppra is from UCB, Inc., Carbatrol ER is from Shire US, Inc. and Felbatol is from Medpoint Pharmaceuticals. Perhaps this is the basis from which to start. Can your prescribing neurologist write a letter of medical necessity that you or he can forward to all three companies to determine if they have any provisions for people in your situation? I am sure you are aware that many pharmaceutical companies have programs for people without insurance or funds to pay for needed medications. Perhaps the three can formulate a plan that will fit your needs and your pocketbook.
I would also suggest you tap in to the Epilepsy Foundation that has facilities in many states. You might begin with the Epilepsy Foundation of America, 8301 Professional Place, Landover, MD 20785, www.epilepsyfoundation.org or you might phone 1-800-332-1000. Once you get a name and local facility, some doors might open. Good luck in your endeavor.
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