I’m 63 and struggling financially trying to make ends meet with $1400/mo early Social Security. I work odd jobs will trying to develop a new product. But my real problem is no health care coverage. I gave up my Blue Cross coverage 3 years ago when the monthly premium went from $500 to $800/mo. I assume it would be even higher today. I was under a cardiologist care due to a heart attack in ‘96 and have had two angioplasties when insured. Since then I was Just hoping to make it until I turned 65 when I would qualify for Medicare. No luck, I suffered an attack 3 months ago with severe chest pains but with no insurance, refused to call 911 and toughed it out with asprin and nitro.

I survived, but friends insisted I go to a clinic where “they HAVE to take care of you”. 3 days later I went to a local emergency medical facility to see if they could determine my condition. I told them I had no insurance and low income. The clerk sneered and said “Well we have to take you, do you want to be admitted?” Knowing my friends would kill me if I didn’t I swallowed my pride and said yes. I hoped they would just do the minimum and keep the cost low. Several tests were done and a doctor finally told me no evidence of a heart attack but wanted to admit me for further tests and observations for at least 24-48 hours. Knowing my financial situation he told me would understand if I refused further. I took the hint and left somewhat relieved at the diagnosis but wondering if the 3 day wait compromised the tests. I have been fine for 3 weeks until I got the bill - $3,800! Somehow I hoped they would be a little easier on me. This was for chest x-rays, enzyme tests, blood work and maybe 1 our of doctor’s time. I was out of there in less than 3 hours. So much for helping the financially troubled without insurance!