Resources
Resources for Financial Concerns
Having a chronic illness can cause financial concerns . Everyone ’ s situation is different . Try these tips to ease the stress .
Understand the Insurance Plans
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Read the policy to know what services will be paid for and if precertification is needed by the insurance company .
Call the company to ask if your doctor and hospital are part of your plan .
Check to see if some of the newest treatments such as certain medications or surgeries are covered by your plan .
When You Call the Insurance Company , You Will Need :
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The patient ’ s name , Social Security number , and date of birth
The policy number
A notepad with your questions and space for notes
Calling insurance companies can be timeconsuming and frustrating . Be patient so you can get the information that you need . Ask the name and extension of the person handling your call so that if you need to call again , you can speak to someone who is familiar with your case .
Paying for medications may be hard if you don ’ t have insurance . Ask your doctor if generics or drugs that cost less can be used . Many drug companies offer free medication to people who need help . Ask your doctor or pharmacist for information .
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People with a chronic condition may be eligible for disability benefits if they were working at the time of the illness . Contact the employer ’ s benefits department for information .
Mount Carmel Financial Resources
Mount Carmel ’ s Customer Service can answer your questions about your bill and payment plans . An automated touch-tone service gives you quick answers to questions about your account . You can call the service at 614-234- 8888 at any time .
Financial Assistance Programs for Medications
There are many programs that provide financial assistance for medication costs . If you qualify , these programs may be able to help pay for your doctor-prescribed medicines and assist you in the process of enrolling and receiving your needed medications .
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Mount Carmel ’ s PrescriptionEase Program
This is a medication assistance program funded by donations made to the Mount Carmel Foundation . It is available for Mount Carmel patients who have no prescription coverage and a low household income . The program helps you handle all the paperwork with the drug companies ’ patient assistance programs and handles your refills and reenrollment processes . Call 614-234-3333 to determine if you are eligible .