Asking for treatment in Texas
Hi, I was treated successfully back in the 2000’s. So I have been out of the HepC world for awhile. Currently I have a friend that hasn’t been treated. While a US citizen with Medicare, He has been living outside the US for awhile. He would like to go back to his home State of Texas and try to seek treatment. He only has Medicare but has a history with a gastroenterologist in Texas. What would be the first steps? Can someone only on Medicare qualify for the new treatments (upon referral of his doctor)?
Hi Buzz. That is a great question. Medicare does pay towards hepatitis C treatment. However, if your friend can't afford the co-pays, there are organizations and even treatment manufacturers, who will likely help patients pay if they qualify. I suggest your friend make an appointment with his gastro doc and find out how much Medicare pays. If he feels he needs help, he can consider calling Help-4-Hep at 1-877-435-7443, M-F from 9AM til 9 PM Eastern time. The call and help are free. The counselors are often able to help patients access care. I wish him the best. And please introduce him to our Health Union Community where he can ask as many questions as he needs. (Sue, Community Moderator)
