Guaranteed Healthcare

In 1992, while employed by Arizona state government, I tested positive for Epstein Barr. I was told that it was treatable and was put on a regiment of meds. By early 1996, I was experiencing severe body 'aches', while also having contracted a parasite and fracturing my tail bone. In October, I was placed on disability after being diagnosed with CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and severe fibromyalgia. I was 48 years old.

After being placed off work, I received short term disability for the first six months (that 'I' paid for), then was placed on LTD (long term disability) which expires on my 62nd, birthday. I receive a check every month in the amount of $1100.00. This pays for my housing, food, etc., AND ALL MEDICAL COSTS! While the state provides me with a monthly stipend (through an insurance carrier), they do not provide me with any kind of health insurance. They do, however, send me open enrollment forms every year, affording me the opportunity to purchase health insurance. The cost exceeds $800.00 a month!

As a result of not having medical coverage, I visit the doctor every six months for a "med check." I don't choose the best doctor; I choose the cheapest. I pay for all office visits and meds out-of-pocket. Although my doctor has requested that tests be done, I simply cannot afford to get them done. Although I had cancer when I was 24 years old (and have a family history of cancer), I cannot afford cancer screening. Since I do not receive social security, I do not qualify for medicare. I applied for the state medical program (med-ical), but was informed that I "receive too much money." I even applied for an alternate 'partial pay' program, but was told that I am "not old enough or sick enough."

I am now 60 years old. My LTD checks stop in less than two years (on my 62nd, birthday). My only source of income at that time will be social security; a mere $580.00 a month. I will still not be eligible for medicare for a year later, so medical costs will still come out of my pocket. My last house payment is in October 2010 (seven months after my checks stop), so it's likely that I stand to lose my home as well. I became a single parent in 1980, and raised five children with no child support. (Another glitch in our system)! I can't even remember the last time I received a 'real' birthday or Christmas gift, as I always receive money or pre-paid Visa cards to help pay for my medical or living costs.

I have worked since I was fifteen and gave 16 years of service to the state of Arizona. Now, in my time of need, there is nowhere to turn.