I made a choice not to be insured that had little to do with my ability to pay. To me it simply does not make sense to pay out monthly for a service I would rarely use. Then when I do need it I have to argue to get things covered. I guess you could say I am “voting with my wallet”. Or perhaps exercising my market power.

Concerning the free assistance programs: I choose not to use them, (government funded or otherwise) even at the times I would/may have qualified for them.

I see no need for such programs unless my life were in danger. The law states I cannot be refused treatment in such cases. Additionally there are those that I am sure require the assistance much more than I ever have.

re:
“Have you ever looked into a Health Savings Plan?

Yes I have. If I were employed in the traditional sense that would be a good option. However, I am anything but traditional when it comes to work.

Have you ever looked into a Health Savings Plan? Combining a health savings plan with a prescription discount card cuts out all the administrative fees associated with a regular healthcare program and provides you the money you need for your doctors/dentist visits. The prescription discount card then covers the drugs your doctor recommends. On generic medications, you can save a great deal with these cards. And on brand name, you’re still saving more than paying full cost.

I’d be interested in hearing more about your situation.

It didn’t help with much other than swelling. Let’s just say I found alternative medication that worked better for pain.

Hope the Ibuprofen helped!