5 Ways to Pay for a Caregiver

If you have advanced liver disease or other health problems, you may need help during or after hep C treatment. You can benefit by having someone to do simple things for you. Sometimes, running errands, cooking, cleaning, or getting a ride to the doctor seem too hard for you. Friends or family may try to help us out, which is great. But what happens when they live too far away, or have other responsibilities? I’ve come up with 5 ways to pay for a caregiver to get you started NOW, when you need it the most.

How long will I need help?

It may be just to get you through treatment, or after a procedure. If could be long-term, if you have extrahepatic manifestations. Also, get ready to be honest about what you can AND cannot do. It may be an emotional time when you have to write down or say out-loud how hard life has become. I understand that saying you need help can create anxiety. Please take your time. Remember, you’re not alone. Many of us have been in need of help and didn't know how to ask.

How will I pay for a caregiver?

Here are five ways to pay for a caregiver:

Private pay

If you have some extra money in the budget, you may be able to pay for someone to come in and help. If you have family members, perhaps they can each give $25 a week toward a caregiver.

Medicaid

If you are eligible, help is provided in some states. First, try reaching out by phone. Click here for some easy steps.

Medicare

Begin by talking to your primary care doctor and let them know that you're struggling. Take this step BEFORE you call the Medicare office. Tell the doctor, nurse, or PA what areas you need help with. Click here for more information.

Veterans Assistance

For those who served, your local Veterans Affairs office can help you qualify. They have resources to help you discover benefits for getting a caregiver. Click here to read more on the VA website.

Insurance

Many private insurance companies have a provision for a caregiver. If you are still working or are younger than retirement age, this is a good route to go. If you are retired, disabled, or have an add on policy, it may be your best option.

Getting started

All of these require paperwork, answering questions, and getting personal about your health and finances. Negative feelings may come up. Simply accept that you need extra support, and then stand firm until you get it. If you have a family member to advocate for you, that helps too.

Asking for a caregiver is hard; I’ve been there. You may feel like a "weakling" or "beggar". But if you are NOT getting the care you need, please take the steps to get started. It may be short- or long-term, but you are worth it. Get some relief with cooking or chores during hep C treatment. Then, a caregiver can provide lifesaving relief after treatment, or while living with advanced liver disease. I hope these 5 ways to pay for a caregiver get you started on a road to relief and recovery with hepatitis C.