Rosie could no longer stand the chronic pelvic pain. It brought her to a breaking point. Any approach to “curb the pain” and “make it bearable” was no longer sustainable. She made an appointment with Neighborhood’s Women’s Health services.
While under the care of Nurse Practitioner, Kristi King, Rosie disclosed she could not pay for any further examinations or treatments. Rosie’s care team vowed to help and referred her to receive an ultrasound – all covered by Neighborhood’s Unfunded Care Program. The program, funded by philanthropic donations, ensures Neighborhood never turns any person away due to lack of insurance or ability to pay.
Rosie’s care team also encouraged her to contact Neighborhood’s Certified Enrollment Counselor to see if she might qualify for health insurance.
At her appointment, Rosie learned she was eligible for coverage under the new Medi-Cal Expansion. This changed Rosie’s life forever: it was the first time she had health insurance.
Rosie received more good news: she qualified for Full Scope Medi-Cal and was now eligible for additional healthcare services through UC San Diego’s Women’s Gynecology Department. A pelvic ultrasound revealed she had developed non-cancerous and treatable growths, which had caused the intense pain.
Recalling her experience with Neighborhood, Rosie says, “Si me duele algo, o tengo una duda, yo voy con ustedes. Yo sigo las recomendaciones de mi doctora de comer saludable y hacer ejercicio moderad. Todo mundo es muy amable, generoco, muy humano.”
“If something aches or I have a question, I go to Neighborhood. Following my doctor’s recommendations, I now balance a healthy diet with moderate exercise. Everyone is very amiable, generous, and humane.”
There is power in discovering a name and explanation for one’s pain. Even more so, when surrounded by healthcare providers and health insurance experts to help you along the way.