It pays to complain, Herceptin Price Reduced

[Sheila]

A big thanks to all of you for your time in letting me know what Herceptin is priced at around the world. With your ammunition, I filed a claim with the Illinois Attorney Generals Office against Rush University Medical Center in Chicago where I receive my Herceptin. It has taken several months but Rush has agreed to reduce the price charged for all patients by 21.08% retroactive to December 1, 2004. While I was hoping for a bigger reduction, this is a start and will benefit anyone who received Herceptin at Rush during this time frame and in the future. I couldn't have accomplished this without all the help from all who responded to the pricing you pay.
Never Give Up Hope!
Hugs
Sheila

[imported_Joe]

Shelia,

Congratulations on being a great patient advocate. You really exemplify what we are trying to accomplish here.

I would also like to thank all of the others who shared with us the prices that they were being charged for Herceptin.

Kudos for a job well done.

Warmest Regards
Joe

[mts]

That is great- it really does pay to be a squeeky wheel...
What is the amount they reduced to?

Maria

[StephN]

YAY!
As you say, it is a start. They will still charge at last half again what I pay, but getting on their case put an embarrassing spotlight on Rush. They also may have lost some "business" by getting out this info in your area.

Some satisfaction is better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick!

[Sheila]

I will still be charged about 8000.00 per treatment, of which the insurance pays 1/2, and it is a PPO so I don't have to pay the difference. Another bit of info I found out through BCBS of IL , which is my insurance carrier is that as long as you go to a PPO provider, there is NO lifetime max on insurance coverage....that is a big load off my chest (pardun the pun), and I did find this out during my complaint process with the Attorney General in IL, but to me it was the principle of the overcharging, and how they were taking advantage of people who have a copay, or God forbid, lousy insurance...at least they will recoup from this.
Hugs
Sheila

[madubois63]

Sheila - I am very proud of you for a job well done!!!! I hope many follow your example...I was amazed at the differnce in cost.

[madubois63]

Sheila - How is your grandaughter these days?

[Lolly]

Sheila, you did a wonderful job getting big business to back down, kudos!!!

<3,
Lolly

[Gina]

WAY TO GO!!!! Wish you could do something about the PRICE of it in Northern VA...I know diamonds are forever..., but HONESTLY, I could be covered in them with what my insurance has dished out for Herceptin in these past 6 years on the stuff...not that I am complaining...smile..Gina