They can stir you in the right direction.

Good luck.

If your financial situation is so precarious that you can’t afford to pay a premium *and* you can’t afford to set aside money for medical expenses, then perhaps your husband should consider giving up his self-employment and seeking a job with a benefits package. (Or you could get a job that comes with benefits, so that your husband can continue his self-employment.)

Since you’ve already been told that you need a hysterectomy, you’re not likely to qualify for any private insurance policies now. Too late to apply for coverage anywhere, unless you go through an employer. Or, you can save up the money and pay for the operation out of pocket – at least you get a tax write-off.

Sounds harsh, I know, but its the unfortunate reality of the situation. If you decide to pay out of pocket, someone at the hospital should be able to work with you on a discounted rate. Definitely call the financial services/charity care office.

Good luck.

In the meantime though, most medicaid programs have what they call a “spend down program”, i.e. when you are not eligible for medicaid but have to have a large medical procedure you will have to pay a percentage such as 20% and the government under this program will pay 80%–the same office that handles medicaid handles this program. The hospital should be able to help you apply–you will need proof of income. The program might be called something different in your area. You also might want to talk with the social worker at the hospital to see if she can give you a referral for this program or another program that might be able to assist you.

Good luck–I hope that your health gets better and that your business prospers!

Also, I would be a little cautious. The US is the worlds #1 performer of hystorectomies. You might want a 2nd or 3rd opinion. There could be other options.

I have always had insurance thru companies that I have worked for… I had that “security” however most of the time I couldn’t afford to make the co-pay or deductible.. Often, my wife and I would argue over keeping the expensive insurance.. “Why pay for it if we can’t afford to use it” is what she would always say… The thought of not having that ILLUSION of security just terrified me. Well, enough of my BS… I hope your surgery goes well and something works out for you guys.

Keep you head up!