Politics and Hep C: "Not Sick Enough for Treatment"
With news of various states now passing laws about hepatitis c treatment, more people are able to begin treatment in the earlier stages of liver damage. This is so exciting, because in the past, this was not always the case...
The history of hep C treatment
For most patients, getting treatment for hep C means fighting the outrageous costs to cure this disease. Sadly, many patients encounter roadblocks, especially in being told that they are "not sick enough for treatment". In the past, stages 1 and 2 are considered to be in the category of "not sick enough", which I believe is totally ridiculous.
Why we should treat earlier stages of hep C
Upon doing a documentary with PBS NewsHiur a couple years ago, we were fighting to share the importance of those with hep c getting tested and treated as soon as possible. The goal was to avoid further complications in one’s health, as well as possible death caused by later stages hep C. In later stages, more health issues arise, such as kidney issues, mobility issues, high blood pressure, edema, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, dental issues, liver failure, and many more. These additional health issues therefore create an additional financial burden on the patient, as well as the overall healthcare system. In other words, it costs far more to treat someone in later stages of cirrhosis (when they might need a transplant) than treating people in earlier disease stages.
Fight for your treatment!
Time and time again, my foundation has been approached by patients who are desperate and wanting to cure this sooner than later. In the past, our hands have been tied, but we have tried to help people find ways around treatment restrictions.
Recently, a good friend on Facebook shared that after years and years of waiting until she was "sick enough", she got news that she will be able to begin treatment very soon. Her home state of Michigan finally voted in favor to help treat anyone, regardless of stage of the disease. This is great news to see now, and maybe other states will follow suit in treating hepatitis C patients at any stage.
If you are living in a state where there are regulations on the stage your liver has to be in order to be treated, I encourage you to voice this concern with a letter to the governor, mayor, state representatives, etc. As I explained, the more cost-effective approach is to allow treatment in earlier stages. Keep pounding on that door. My friend did not stop until she got the answer she was looking for... TIME TO TREAT. And to those in Michigan, get back into your doctors for your treatment!
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