Tell Us Your Story

April 29, 2009

As you know, people with arthritis and other chronic conditions frequently become disabled as a result of their underlying diseases.  People who are under 65 years of age, who become disabled as a result of their disease, qualify for healthcare coverage under Medicare.  However, they have to wait 24-months before coverage actually becomes effective, hence the term “24-month waiting period.” 

The AF is a member of a coalition that is trying to change this situation and remove the 24-month waiting period, so that Medicare coverage would become effective immediately people are diagnosed as disabled and qualify for disability.  Congress is currently reviewing all aspects of health care reform.  The coalition has an opportunity to present real world, personal stories of people who experienced, or are currently experiencing delays in coverage because of this waiting period to various members of Congress from the following states next week.  

One of our goals in 2008 is collect real world stories about patients who are experiencing access to healthcare issues, i.e. how, why, when, where and what is preventing people with arthritis from getting the care they need in the hospital, doctor’s office etc. when they need it.

Please include as much detail as possible, including a photo if possible, and you must be comfortable having your story shared at these meetings. 

 
Please send your stories to Sharon Tatom Garcia at statom@arthritis.org, or call (312) 372-2080 x 30 with questions.