Last Friday I called a local doctor's office that the Free Clinic directed me to after they refused to treat me because of my PTSD. I told them upfront that I had no insurance, no ability to pay, and what happened when I went to the Free Clinic.
The scheduler listed to what I had to say, and very calmly gave me an appointment for Monday morning. (!!!)
Over the weekend we had Irene visit, of course. And when I went for my appointment, their computers and phone lines were still down (although they had gotten power back). I was signed in without fanfare, and given only the new patient forms to fill out. Somehow, the insurance and payment forms were not included.
I was seen by a very nice CNP, who already knew the situation. We chatted as she did my exam, about my health history, about single payer health care (she's all for it, as is the rest of the staff), and about ways I can get coverage. She said I should try for MaineCare, but acknowledged that they're trying to cut down on those who qualify--and the hospital the clinic is associated with has a solution. If you have applied for MaineCare and been turned down, you apply to the hospital, and they will provide health care and medications (depending on income level). I would still go to see them, and would be treated just as if I had employer-issued insurance.
She then gave me a year's worth of refills on my Synthroid and Mobic, and 3 refills of Fioricet (for migraines) and tramadol (for fibromyalgia and migraines). All of these are inexpensive, and I was able to pick them up.
I also have an appointment for November for a yearly exam (since my last one was last November). Pùka also was praised, for his good behavior, and for the fact that he was completely 'tuned-in' to me. I told her that I didn't know what I would do without him, and as we were leaving I heard her telling other staff members his role and how well he fills it.
I don't know if the Free Clinic knew that this is the way it would be handled. It's likely they had an idea--but I wish they would have told me. Right now I'm thankful that I was treated with dignity, that they went over and above with the medications they prescribed (I would have been thrilled to just get the Synthroid), and that there is a path forward, even if I don't qualify for MaineCare. I have steps to follow, and the assurance that my chronic conditions don't have to go untreated.
Thank you, everyone, for your concern and advice. Mahalo!