2 replies to this topic

[WoofWoof]

Just 1 more birthday candle & I'll be eligible for Medicare. I'm already concerned about the Tasigna co-pay. Anyone here have any insight as to how much it will be & how to get the best coverage?

[susanlathers]

I will be starting with medicare in Jan.  Meciare plus Kaiser ( just like all HMO's).  My understanding is that there is no insurance that covers the donut hole/gap, that period after medicare has paid $2,700.  My Tasigna costs $8,000.00 per month so that means I will be in the donut hole/gap around the first 10 days in Jan.  It will then cost me $4,500, I assume I will have to pay that when I get my perscription filled in Jan.  This has been an issue I have brought up many times and many have different opinions.  I guess I will know in Jan.  I am going to try to get someone to talk to me at the pharmacy this week when I pick up so I know what to expect.  Kaiser and the drug companies all have special programs for people with no insurance and no assests.  But I have worked very hard to be able to retire with my home and some saving,  Some of which will have to go for that $4,500. every year.  It will go quickly.  guess I will have to reverse mortgage my house after that.  I am grateful I have some saved up and that there is a treatment.  I was diagnosed 5 yrs ago this Christmas and without the drugs that we have I would be dead by now so got to keep everything in perspective.

Susan

[MJL]

What happens after you "hit" the don-nut hole? I know we will have to pay. Will it be for the remainder of that particular Rx or is it for the rest of the year? Does our drug coverage pick back up? This issue really confuses me. Perhaps we need to lobby Medicare to consider Gleevec and other life sustaining drugs as a treatment and not just a Prescription.

MJL