In a striking response to a controversial statement made by Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), who suggested that individuals could pay for healthcare by skipping their iPhone purchases, a young librarian from Hays, Kansas, aims to shed light on the true financial burden of chronic illness. The librarian, Emily Carter, 24, who lives with Type 1 diabetes, took it upon herself to illustrate just how many iPhones one would need to afford medical care for various health conditions through a compelling infographic series.
Carter’s inspiration sparked when she heard Chaffetz’s remarks during a CNN interview. “I felt compelled to create something that truly highlights the healthcare debate from the perspective of those battling chronic illnesses,” she shared. “His comments were unwittingly the catalyst I needed to communicate the staggering costs associated with these conditions in a relatable way.”
Using peer-reviewed studies and government resources, Carter meticulously calculated how many iPhone 7s—priced at $649—would be required to cover the costs of treatment for ten different chronic conditions. For instance, one year of medical supplies for Type 1 diabetes would cost approximately 35.6 iPhones. “It’s crucial to show the cost of treatment without insurance,” Carter emphasized, as many people are unaware of the financial strain even with coverage.
She shared her personal experience, revealing that her recent insurance plan limits the number of blood glucose tests covered. “If I exceed five tests a week, I could be paying an extra $10 per test, which can add up to hundreds of dollars,” she explained. This reality underscores the importance of understanding the financial implications of chronic illnesses.
The costs for various conditions are staggering:
- One year of asthma medication: 5 iPhones
- One year of lupus medication: 20 iPhones
- One year of breast cancer treatment: 80.9 iPhones
- One year of HIV antiretroviral therapy: 35.6 iPhones
- One year of epilepsy treatment: 21.5 iPhones
- One cycle of in vitro fertilization (IVF): 66 iPhones
Carter noted that the cost of HIV medications was particularly shocking. “Even before the price hikes, these medications were already exorbitantly priced. No life should come with such a hefty price tag,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Carter expressed her relief that she never had to rely on the stockpiled medications she had prepared for when she would no longer be covered under her parent’s plan. “The ACA made a significant difference for many of us dealing with chronic health issues,” she said.
Carter’s initiative serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of healthcare costs. For anyone interested in more about chronic illness and healthcare, check out this insightful blog post that dives deeper into these topics. Also, for those looking into at-home insemination options, Make a Mom offers a reputable selection of syringes for home insemination.
In summary, Emily Carter’s infographic series powerfully illustrates the financial realities faced by those with chronic conditions, contrasting them against the cost of an iPhone. It’s a necessary conversation that highlights the complexities and challenges of affording essential medical care.