Just got laid off - need guidance on options

[Hungryforbbc]

Got laid off last week. I’m currently undetectable on biktarvy. I’m gonna continue my current amazing insurance along with my LTD coverage under COBRA until the end of the year. I also have well documented diagnoses of both esophagitis and inguinal neuropathy that qualified me for FMLA accommodations and for medical cannabis before it was legalized here in New York.

 I’m 53 and have the best health insurance I will probably ever have so if there’s a way I really don’t want to regret not asking:

I’m extremely anxious about losing my coverage with the meds costing $3k/month and the insurance costing $2.5k/month I am seeking immediate advice from everyone here who may have some insight- can I get myself onto permanent long term disability? Do I have to stop taking meds and get my viral load up or is there another way? Honestly I’m afraid I’m missing out on what may be my last big chance to secure my future especially considering the state of health care here in the states.  I know I have a short window during which I may have options so if you have any insight or guidance please let me know!

thanks

[Opnow]

Reach out to the manufacturer and see if they have any assistance programs for low cost or free medications.

[Hungryforbbc]

1 hour ago, Opnow said:

Reach out to the manufacturer and see if they have any assistance programs for low cost or free medications.

thanks… I’m already on that but I’m hoping someone can tell me about getting on disability cause I made really good money and my coverage was amazing so considering my multiple health issues I’m wondering if I could get on permanent disability and not have to sweat the corporate bullshit anymore. It’s not easy to make the corporate overlords happy when you have multiple health issues 

When I switched coverage last year I didn’t realize that I would have to meet my $3k deductible to get the first refill of my meds this year so in early January the pharmacist told me I had to pay the whole deductible or pay the 3k market price for the meds before I could get my meds. Sensing my concern, she directed me to the manufacturers website and I got a coupon that paid the entire 3k. I was ecstatic but I was even more shocked when the insurance company considered the coupon to be a payment and considered my deductible met for the year. 

Can I qualify? I’ve got mental health diagnoses too.

[lower_bucks_bottom]

Check out the Ryan White program [think before following links] https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov

[757pozzybear]

You may qualify for ADAP and Ryan White. Call your local AIDS service organization.

[PozBearWI]

What has your HIV doc said?