By: Isabella Thompson
Updated: Aug. 31, 2018
Originally Published: Aug. 31, 2018
My career as a nurse has primarily been spent in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and as a new mother, the thought of going bankrupt to secure my son’s essential medical care is a terrifying reality.
From a young age, I dreamed of becoming a parent. After facing challenges with conception, I chose the path of adoption. The moment I laid eyes on Max’s file, I felt an undeniable connection. His infectious smile, despite having a cleft lip and palate, radiated joy.
I first met Max in October 2017 when he was just two years old. Right from the start, he was a cheerful, inquisitive child. He loved exploring the world around him, especially through his Legos and toy cars. Yet, alongside his playful spirit, he also faced numerous medical obstacles that no child should have to endure.
Shortly after Max became part of our family, he required surgery to fix his cleft palate. Without this procedure, he would have faced severe complications that could have affected his ability to swallow, chew, and breathe. His risk of hearing loss and speech issues would have increased significantly. Simply put, this surgery was essential for his survival and quality of life.
My family believed the urgency of this surgery was evident, but when we submitted his hospital expenses to our insurance provider, we were met with rejection. The insurance companies turned a blind eye to my son’s needs, leaving us with a staggering bill of $23,000. It’s hard to fathom how any family could manage such a financial burden, especially when many Americans struggle to gather even $500 for unforeseen emergencies.
I reached out to the insurance company multiple times, each time being told that my case was under review, yet no definitive answers were provided. As part of his initial medical assessments, Max also needed to see a dentist. After spending two years in an orphanage, he had not received adequate dental care and was suffering from cavities and decay.
At the dentist’s office, despite being given a sedative, Max struggled to stay calm. After several attempts to settle him in the chair for treatment, the dentist suggested we find a doctor who could provide sedation. The need for this dental work was non-negotiable.
Returning to the insurance company, I laid out the situation once again, but we were denied coverage yet again. I found myself staring at my phone, frustrated and confused, asking, “Why won’t you let me take care of my son? Why isn’t my insurance covering this?”
After much persistence, the insurance company finally approved the necessary procedure. It shouldn’t have been this difficult to secure proper healthcare for my child. I shouldn’t have to spend my time acting as an intermediary between the insurance company and the medical professionals. Obtaining essential care for my son should not be such an insurmountable battle.
As a NICU nurse, I understand the struggles that many parents face when dealing with the medical challenges of their premature babies. It’s heartbreaking enough to see these little ones fighting for their lives without adding the stress of insurance coverage or costs to their families.
However, the problem extends far beyond insurance providers; our politicians play a significant role in maintaining a healthcare system that often fails to protect everyone. Recently, we have witnessed alarming attacks on access to affordable, quality healthcare. The Department of Justice has initiated a lawsuit against the Affordable Care Act, jeopardizing the well-being of 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions. Furthermore, the administration has implemented rules for “junk insurance,” which lacks the necessary protections afforded by the ACA.
In Florida alone, over 2.3 million children rely on Medicaid for their healthcare needs. Ultimately, this debate revolves around ensuring that every child has access to healthcare. I sincerely hope that my elected officials choose to stand alongside families like mine.
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Summary:
Navigating the healthcare system for my son, Max, has been a daunting challenge. Despite my background as a NICU nurse, I found myself wrestling with insurance denials for essential surgeries and treatments. The emotional and financial burden of advocating for proper healthcare is overwhelming, especially when many families face similar struggles. Ultimately, this issue highlights the urgent need for a healthcare system that truly supports the needs of all children.