date:20051021

Hi Dave and many of us! I'm sure you saw this but, if not
This week the CMS launch of the Plan Finder fell flat on its face. The most important function of the plan finder was that it would allow patients to enter medications they need into the plan comparison tool to see which plans best cover those drugs.
Surprise: it doesn't work.
The Plan Finder is full of inconsistencies, footnotes and fine print.
* At least some data is incorrect. Several of the stand-alone plan formularies are incorrect. For example, while the Plan Finder shows one plan's formulary as having two tiers-where consumers pay different coinsurances for different drugs-the web site of the company offering that plan shows its formulary has no tiers. Information in the plan-finder tool even conflicts with CMS's own " Landscape of Local Plans (http://www.medicare.gov/medicarereform/map.asp) " charts, also available on the Medicare.gov web site.
* State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) are not listed as a type of drug coverage. When consumers select from among the different types of current prescription drug coverage available, SPAPs are not listed as an option. In some states, SPAPs have been designated as creditable coverage, which means those SPAP members do not have to, and perhaps should not, enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage.
* "Additional Help" provides little help. The "Additional Help" question about Extra Help, Medicare's low-income subsidy program for Part D, paying for Medicare prescription drug plan costs does not explain the low-income benefit, indicate what income limits are necessary to qualify or provide any link or further information so that people can apply for Extra Help.
* Data is incomplete. When consumers view the plans available to them in their zip code, the number of plan options does not correspond to the plans listed.
If the Plan Finder can't accurately navigate the myriad of plan options available to the 43 million Americans with Medicare, then how are people with Medicare and their families supposed to figure it out?

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia



 

AD is a life-threatening problem.  It can raise your blood pressure to 
where you can have severe strokes and heart damage.
 
Jim

Re: [QUAD-L] Sleeping vs Self cathing



 

If I were in your shoes I would make a condom catheter work.  I wear a 
diaper during the day, not so much because of my condom catheter coming off but 
because I get lifted out of my wheelchair and into bed and the extra pressure on 
my stomach will make me have a BM sometimes.
 
Jim

RE: [QUAD-L] Caregivers

2005-10-21 Thread Eric W Rudd

Title: Message



My thoughts exactly.
 
 
Eric W Rudd
[EMAIL PROTECTED]

  
  -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 
  [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, October 21, 2005 4:21 
  PMTo: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; 
  quad-list@eskimo.comSubject: Re: [QUAD-L] 
  Caregivers 
  Personally I don't care what I look like or how much room might take up 
  in a restaurant when I go out to eat.  I tell the hostess that they need 
  to place me somewhere where I'm not going to be in their way.  I tell 
  them that I cannot fit underneath a table and I am not going to be moving out 
  of their way continuously if they put me in the middle of an aisle.  I 
  have always been placed in a very nice spot of the restaurant and I have been 
  out of their way so they can do their job.  I have never missed a 
  gathering of family or friends because I was too afraid to be singled 
  out.  I know I'm different because I am in a wheelchair and people are 
  going to stare even if I did fit under the table.
   
  Jam

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers



 

Personally I don't care what I look like or how much room might take up in 
a restaurant when I go out to eat.  I tell the hostess that they need to 
place me somewhere where I'm not going to be in their way.  I tell them 
that I cannot fit underneath a table and I am not going to be moving out of 
their way continuously if they put me in the middle of an aisle.  I have 
always been placed in a very nice spot of the restaurant and I have been out of 
their way so they can do their job.  I have never missed a gathering of 
family or friends because I was too afraid to be singled out.  I know I'm 
different because I am in a wheelchair and people are going to stare even if I 
did fit under the table.
 
Jam

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers




Yes, sit next to the table with your tray on or only eat foods you can pick 
up off the table.
 
Jim

Re: [QUAD-L] PEOPLE, THE PVA, ETC!

2005-10-21 Thread MikeyBird3





In a message dated 10/21/2005 4:06:22 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

   
  After 18 years of having an AD card info in my purse 
  ... it has disappeared.
  So I call today and the lady sounded like I 
  interrupted her having sex.
  A "Perturbed" "God I have to take this call" 
  attitude!

SCI Info Pages - A 
Printable Autonomic Dysreflexia Card  This will help till you get 
one.  Print, cut around dark line, fold in half and laminate. 
 
BillLeesburg, 
FLC-6 Incomplete since 7/20/68AOL/AIM ID: MikeyBird3Stupidity is NOT 
a handicap!  Park elsewhere!

[QUAD-L] Dave K - Part D







 
Hi Dave,
 
We're here too stewing over what to do.  Recently got a letter from CMS semi-explaining
what one must do.  It just says "IF YOU QUALIFY" but, of course doesn't explain how you
go abt finding alot of info out.
 
And don't you have to pick a plan BEFORE Jan 1,2006?  My PN Magazine said something
abt a penalty for late appliers?
 
In our situation, with that BIG mysterious doughnut hole on income ... we may be better off
not paying into a plan when it MAY cost us more TO DO SO rather than continue to
pay for my scripts outright.
 
Did you get the list from Medicare.ORG?
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
 
---Original Message---
 

From: David K. Kelmer
Date: 10/20/05 19:08:56
To: Lori Michaelson
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Greg - Medicare and God help us all!
 


Hi Lori,
 
Last week I contacted about 30 companies by phone that will be offering a Medicare Part D Plan in Texas and requested an information packet from them.  Some said they'd mail the info out this week, some said they'd mail it out within two weeks, and some said a month or more.  Either way I am going to be doing a lot a comparison shopping before I commit to ANY plan!
 
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USA  .Lori Michaelson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:







 

As you know I get weekly email Medicare info (especially on the new Part D prescription plan but alot more).  But it has gotten so complex (for a govn't reason no doubt!) that even Dave (hubby being in a genius category) can not understand it all.
 
We got the 2006 Medicare & You Handbook today.  All the past ones have been exactly the same pretty much.  This one says on the front that it is different.  In Red.   Understatement!  
 
Toward the back (I think) it says that there will be like $400+ in monthly premiums!  With my SSD check being not much much more than that  ... what the heck?  Plus a debit taken out for the new Part D prescription program whether one is eligible or not!  Thoroughly mind boggling!   
 
Greg ... I hope the plan you chose IS WORKING for you and that you're not just PAYING INTO it!
 
And, Greg, hope you weren't offended by my last email to you on what to do.  It's hard on me too.  Well two days gone this week ... did you make any calls?  You shoulda got your MEDICARE & YOU 2006 Handbook today too.
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ

Re: [QUAD-L] Lori







Yes, Ron, ANY straining exacerbates my pain where the shunt is.  And/or
my spine.  Which stinks because I used to lift wrist weights, could move easily
in any direction, etc. 
 
I'm hypersensitive with almost anything.
 
Oh yeah ... the warmth here has made me feel s much better.
More relaxed, etc.
 
Thank you for the character comment.  Some here think I'm a jerk (on opinionated
subjects so that makes ALL OF ME to them a *bad* person ... ya know .. that
shallow minded, narrow thinking process).
 
Take care,
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
 
---Original Message---
 

From: RONALD L PRACHT
Date: 10/20/05 20:42:07
To: quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: [QUAD-L] Lori
 
Hi,
 
You are an asset to this list, I have read every post on here for over a year and printed your information on your shunt experience. Your posts may have saved my butt from letting some neurosurgeon screw me up. In your experience with a syrinx does activity or lifting, straining etc make you have more pain? Im still swimming and wheeling trying to stay limber and not get to fat or go crazy. I have a fear in my mind that doing these activities may increase my syrinx, but I keep doing them. Whats your thoughts on this. Im sorry about your 44 caregivers, thats a rough go for anyone.At least you have the warm weather, Im in St. Louis feeling cold. Nothing worse for pain and spasms than cold rainy weather.
 
Ron c7

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers







It's a crap shoot ReelQuick ... there is either a work ethic, reliability, and dependability and
those who do a good job or there isn't.
 
I pay a lady $8/hr (found via church).  She's a half wit but she's close, $8 is the least people here
will work for (more if they're a CNA).  I  didn't pay to train her.  She was dependable till her
husband just hurt his back last weekend and she doesn't drive.
 
So she asked a lady friend from the church who did come today and they'll back each
other up.
 
We trained like 60 when in Va for 18 months.  That was agency paid but still... hubby
was coming home from work daily.
 
Now, MediCARE agencies say their aides only do 20-minute bed baths and linen
changes... NOTHING else.  It's criminal but they have the right!  Leaving me on my
own.  I've tried exposing this crap but no one is interested.  Not juicy enough.
 
Tired out, stressed out.
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/20/05 21:14:15
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers
 


I also work on the third shift also and most of the time I stay up til the caregiver gets there. If I go on to sleep he might not get fed at his next feeding. We have had the same problems. We do get some funding from various programs for brain injuries. We get about $2000 each month but that is a drop in the bucket as to what we need. Most people won't work for less than $8.00 per hour and then they don't want taxes taken out which is fine with me because it is a long tedious process to take them out etc.Right now we are using about 90 to 100 hours a week because we are training new people to work. At $8.00 an hour that is way over budget which comes out of our pockets which don"t
 run deep. We are not rich. If we were I would retire. How do others on this list pay the people they hire? Do you pay them for the time you spend training them? What if they work 1 day after you get them trained? How do you pay them for that. You can use all your money training and never get anywhere.
 
 
  -Original Message-From: Lori Michaelson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>To: Quad Sent: Thu, 20 Oct 2005 14:33:45 -0700Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers









This is an ongoing problem for a majority of us.  My aide called an hour
before coming on Wednesday saying she couldn't come as her
hubby was in the hospital.
 
And now she can't make it tomorrow either but I'm having another
lady come in.  I haven't had my hair washed since Monday!
 
THIS IS PRIVATE PAY.  THE WORK ETHIC STINKS ANYMORE!
I COULD NOT IMAGINE SUCH A LAIZZE FARE (Wrong spelling) attitude
knowing people are depending on you for IMPORTANT issues!
 
I'm so sick of it! 
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/19/05 21:25:22
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers
 


 I'd be happy if I could get people to show up for now. Today the lady that was supposed to work waited until 50 mins before she was supposed to be there to call and say she wasn't coming. I couldn't reach anyone else so he had to lay until 230 pm when they guy ( who is a college student) came in to work the evening shift with him. I did reset my alarm for 1pm and got up and fed him, he is on a gtube. I work 3rd shift so it is important these caregivers show up on time. I had 2 girls to quit last week without giving a 2 week notice.  What is wrong with the work ethic today? do any of you have these problems?
 
 
  -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.comSent: Sun, 16 Oct 2005 09:17:28 EDTSubject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers


Start with medical students in your area.
Nursing students are just as good in providing you services
Try EMTs, who are not on the clock.
Check with the independent living centers for additional help.
Try the church community in your area.  It really doesn't matter
the belief, just the belief to assist your fellow in need.
Best Wishes
W

In a message dated 10/15/05 6:10:36 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

<< I'm not having luck trying to find help for the week after Christmas. My 
helper is going on vacation. I only need someone for an hour in the mornings to 
get me up for a week. The services can't find anyone willing to do it. I was 
willing to pay the $25 hr, but now I might have to pay for 3 hours every 
morning, just to get me up.

I wish there was a service that could match up quads that lived by eachother. 
So if their helps were interested in making a few extra bucks, they could run 
over to help another quad. For emergencies and vacations. It sure would be 
helpful

Greg  >>

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers

2005-10-21 Thread Brien Stocker





Paul Jacobson wrote:

  
  
  
  I am 6 ft tall and with my powerchair and 4"
cushion, I can not get under any table in a restaurant.  
   
  Has anyone solved this issue?
   
  Thanks,
   
  Paul c5/6

Hey paul, I am 6'3" and I know how frustrating this is.  Do you have a
swing away controller?  When my knees approach  the  table, I  remove
my feet from the footrest, thus dropping my knees lower.  I have an
invacare TDX5 which has 3 height options which can easily be changed
out for a size that may lower one a bit, but the tradeoff for reaching
into cupboards, etc. makes one think twice. I  actually  have  the
tallest brackets  so I can reach really high into standard  cupboards.

Good luck,

Brien

Re: [QUAD-L] New Therapy for Paraplegia and Quadriplegia

2005-10-21 Thread Brien Stocker





Houston809 wrote:

   New Therapy for Paraplegia and Quadriplegia
  Anybody
familiar with this? Wally what have you heard?
  
  
  This looks  like FES, functional electrical
stimulation, which is what C.  Reeve used and empowered him to move his
foot in h2o!!
  
   
  
 
  GIGER MD® Therapy is a unique therapy
method
   
 
  Dear Sir or Madam
   
  The damaged or
functionally impaired CNS (central nervous system) is functionally
reorganised in its activated network parts or in its basic structure
through the relearning of lost frequency and phase coordination in the
performance of coordinated rhythmical movement. In the case of severe
CNS damage, the restoration of physiological functions is only possible
when instructed learning takes place in an integrative, co-ordinated
and efficient way. The relearning of relative frequency and phase
coordination and of old movement patterns of the diseased CNS can best
be achieved with the use of GIGER MD® medical device which controls the
frequency and phase coordination with a precision of milliseconds.
This relearning of motor functions of the lesioned CNS is considered as
a transformation of the coordination dynamics of the central nervous
system. The increase in the relearning rate of specific
spatial-temporal pattern of activity among the many billion neurons of
the CNS networks through movement and other functions of the CNS is
essentially determined by various factors.
  Please ask for more information about the GIGER MD® Therapy or go to www.gigermd.com  or
  
  www.paraplegic-online.com 
  
  
   
  Intensive training on the GIGER MDâ medical device enhances in the best way
vegetative functions and motor recovery or even restore these functions
in people who have been paralyzed due to a spinal cord injury.
   
  The
movement pattern of all limbs is on milliseconds accurate, as the user
would walk. Coordinated locomotor training on milliseconds accurate
increases the amplitude of appropriate muscle activation and decreases
the amplitude of inappropriate or spastic muscle activation. As the
patient is lying on his back, the therapy can be started very early
after injury to prevent “learned non-use” and to facilitate locomotor
recovery.
   
  We look forward to
hearing from you in due course.
   
  Combo Ltd.
4503 Solothurn
Switzerland
Phone +41 32 621 97 41
Fax +41 32 621 97 45
www.gigermd.com 
  
www.gigermd.org 
  
   
 
  
  
-- End of Forwarded Message

[QUAD-L] PEOPLE, THE PVA, ETC!







I've about had it with people these days!  Understatement!
 
I've stayed indoors by the phone over 2 days waiting on 2 Drs who
said they'd be returning my urgent calls ... only for no call!  So I call again...
nothing.
 
After 18 years of having an AD card info in my purse ... it has disappeared.
So I call today and the lady sounded like I interrupted her having sex.
A "Perturbed" "God I have to take this call" attitude!
 
I just don't get it!  I try to be as friendly & upbeat only to get an attitude
or people not doing their job!
 
Here it is Friday and just made a 3rd call to have my new Urologist (who
was anxious to live up to his reputation for me - his words) still call me
back since Monday!  I tell the nurses or whomever that I NEED answers, etc.
It's like I don't exist after they get $$$
 
And my regular Dr who I found out just lied to me!  Probably why he's
not calling me back.
 
I really feel like I'm living in a 3rd world country or something!
 
Lori (pissed as hell)
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/21/05 07:54:59
To: quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia
 
In a message dated 10/21/2005 9:26:47 AM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

It is severe pounding and sharp pain in head that can keep increasing. 
 Thanks, Dan
 
and sweating and chills and spasms... 
i have a little card that describes what AD is and i carry it with me.  most of the doctors/nurses/caregivers don't have a clue about it.  here is a site about it.
SPINALCORD: Autonomic Dysreflexia - A possible life threatening situation
 
Medical Alert cards are available fromParalyzed Veterans of America (PVA), 1-800-424-8200

Re: [QUAD-L] Thanks...

Hi Susan,
My Mom is 76 and had a 5-way bypass done in 1998. She recently had some tests indicate one of the 5 arteries needed to be re-opened and a shunt placed in it. She went in for this on Monday, the 17th of Oct., and the Surgeon decided the shunt wasn't needed after looking at the artery with a scope.
I understand your father's concern, and while my Mom doesn't have a SCI, she does have diabetes. I can tell you that once she had the bypass her strength, enthusiasm, and stamina was so much better than before.
I would think getting the bypass out of the way will clear the way for further progress for your Dad. I'll keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong.
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USA
Susan Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Thanks for all of the postings. It's amazing that for the past year myfamily has been searching the web for information with very little luckand within one week I have found a wealth of information and I'm verygrateful for that.My dad is almost 69 and he lives in IL. He's is doing remarkably welland is frustrated that he's not doing even better. I don't know ifthat's for the better or worse that he doesn't seem to realize howserious his break was. But, I try not to go places he doesn't initiate.He is at home with a live-in caretaker, who is wonderful, and I wouldlove for him to get the voice program for the computer. But I'm notsure that will happen, at least not yet.I'm glad to hear that the computer has been a helpful tool because thecomputer is what he's showing most interest in right now.He has a critical!
decision
to make and I hope we can find someinformation. If anyone could point me in the right direction I wouldgreatly appreciate it, more than you know.Long story short, he needs a quadruple bypass. The quandary is, if hehas this surgery is he going to lose all of the progress he's made butif he doesn't can the stint last forever.Thanks Again,It really helps finally knowing that all of this information is outthere! It's too bad his rehab wasn't in a SPI rehab.

Re: [QUAD-L] Proper placement at restaurants

Hi Wheels,
 
Very well put!
 
 
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USA  [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
I like to hold restaurant's "feat to da fire." If they say that they are accessible, to me, that doesn't mean that I have to be seated in the aisle and be the "Floor Show"for entertainment of all who pass by, or a fire hazard by blocking the aisle and havingpeople interrupt my dinner with, "Excuse Me."My demands with benefit future generations of people who frequent fast food restaurants and fine dining establishments.If they want you to entertain people, let them pay for your dinner and drinks. If theywant you to be a fire hazard, call the fire department and let them do a fire inspection, while you are dining.Comon people, this is 2005 and not 1992 when people thought ADA was the American Dental Association. I can't imagine any business ... not wanting yourbusiness these days. But if they don't, who wants t!
 o eat at
 their place in the 1stplace, as they probably don't serve women and minorities either, lol.Best WishesWIn a message dated 10/20/05 5:42:56 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:<< I'm usually with someone so I have them swing my foot rests out and put my feet on the floor. Most of the time it works.Tim >>

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers



Hi Paul,
 
I'm 6 ft tall and the Pride Quantum 6000 that I will be trying out is supposed to be able to lower or raise the arms to a level that will fit under or over a regular sized table.  I let you know more after the test demo workout.  http://www.pridemobility.com/quantum/
 
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USAPaul Jacobson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:




I am 6 ft tall and with my powerchair and 4" cushion, I can not get under any table in a restaurant.  
 
Has anyone solved this issue?
 
Thanks,
 
Paul c5/6

- Original Message - 
From: Paul Jacobson 
To: Lori Michaelson ; Quad 
Sent: Thursday, October 20, 2005 3:10 PM
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers

I have had 44 caregivers in 23 months.

- Original Message - 
From: Lori Michaelson 
To: Quad 
Sent: Thursday, October 20, 2005 2:33 PM
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers





This is an ongoing problem for a majority of us.  My aide called an hour
before coming on Wednesday saying she couldn't come as her
hubby was in the hospital.
 
And now she can't make it tomorrow either but I'm having another
lady come in.  I haven't had my hair washed since Monday!
 
THIS IS PRIVATE PAY.  THE WORK ETHIC STINKS ANYMORE!
I COULD NOT IMAGINE SUCH A LAIZZE FARE (Wrong spelling) attitude
knowing people are depending on you for IMPORTANT issues!
 
I'm so sick of it! 
 
Lori Michaelson
Age - 41
C4/5 complete quad, 26 years post
Tucson, AZ
 
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/19/05 21:25:22
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers
 


 I'd be happy if I could get people to show up for now. Today the lady that was supposed to work waited until 50 mins before she was supposed to be there to call and say she wasn't coming. I couldn't reach anyone else so he had to lay until 230 pm when they guy ( who is a college student) came in to work the evening shift with him. I did reset my alarm for 1pm and got up and fed him, he is on a gtube. I work 3rd shift so it is important these caregivers show up on time. I had 2 girls to quit last week without giving a 2 week notice.  What is wrong with the work ethic today? do any of you have these problems?
 
 
  -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.comSent: Sun, 16 Oct 2005 09:17:28 EDTSubject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers


Start with medical students in your area.
Nursing students are just as good in providing you services
Try EMTs, who are not on the clock.
Check with the independent living centers for additional help.
Try the church community in your area.  It really doesn't matter
the belief, just the belief to assist your fellow in need.
Best Wishes
W

In a message dated 10/15/05 6:10:36 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

<< I'm not having luck trying to find help for the week after Christmas. My 
helper is going on vacation. I only need someone for an hour in the mornings to 
get me up for a week. The services can't find anyone willing to do it. I was 
willing to pay the $25 hr, but now I might have to pay for 3 hours every 
morning, just to get me up.

I wish there was a service that could match up quads that lived by eachother. 
So if their helps were interested in making a few extra bucks, they could run 
over to help another quad. For emergencies and vacations. It sure would be 
helpful

Greg  >>

Re: [QUAD-L] Fwd: Marci's Medicare Update: Week of 10/17/05--Medicare Prescription Drug Co...


Hi Dana,
 
My understanding is that if you have Basic Medicare, you would look for a "stand alone" Part D Plan (PDP).  These plans will vary from company to company somewhat in what meds they will cover.  The Premiums look like they will be up to about $40 depending on the plan.
 
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USA
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


FYI after I read I was still confused about prescription coverages.DanaTo: "Dana Wray" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>Date: Mon, 17 Oct 2005 14:51:07 -0700Subject: Marci's Medicare Update: Week of 10/17/05--Medicare Prescription Drug CoverageFrom: "Marci / Medicare Rights Center" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>




    www.medicarerights.org  |  e-newsletters 

  


Volume 4, Issue 42: Week of October 17, 2005
Welcome to Dear Marci, a free, weekly newsletter designed to keep you in the loop about health care benefits, rights and options for older Americans and people with disabilities.
Dear Marci is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (MRC) (www.medicarerights.org), the nation's largest independent source of health care information for people with Medicare.  A national nonprofit founded in 1989, MRC helps older adults and people with disabilities get good, affordable health care.   
For reprint rights, please contact [EMAIL PROTECTED].


Call MRCs new Rx Hotline for Professionals at 877-Rx-HELP-0 for help with the new Medicare prescription drug benefit!  Information below.


Topic of the Month: Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage


Marci's Mailbox
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Dear Marci,
I already have prescription drug coverage through a private company that works with Medicare. How will the new Medicare prescription drug benefit change that?
 Michael (Phoenix, AZ) Dear Michael,
It depends on how you are currently receiving your prescription drug coverage. If you currently receive drug coverage through an insurance company approved by Medicare, you either have a Medicare supplemental policy with drug coverage (Medigap), or you are enrolled in a Medicare private health plan that is providing all of your Medicare benefits (like an HMO or PPO). (If you have drug coverage through employer or retiree insurance, a state prescription drug assistance program or a long-term care facility, stay tuned for future issues.)Starting in January 2006, there are two ways you can get the new Medicare prescription drug benefit:1. A stand-alone Part D Plan (PDP).  A "stand-alone" plan only offers prescription drug benefits. You will continue to get all your other medical services (such as doctors visits, hospital stays) through Original Medicare.2. A!
  Medicare
 private health plan, also called Medicare Advantage. You can join or remain in a Medicare private health plan that provides all your Medicare-covered services, including prescription drug coverage.If you are now enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (HMO, PPO, PFFS), you will get a letter from your plan this fall telling you how your plan benefits and costs will change in 2006. If you want Medicare drug coverage and

your plan will offer Medicare drug coverage in 2006, you can stay in your plan without taking any action.
your plan will not offer drug coverage in 2006, you must

choose another Medicare private health plan offered by the same company or another company with Medicare drug coverage;
drop your plan and enroll in a stand-alone drug plan and get the rest of your Medicare benefits through Original Medicare; or
if you are in a PFFS or cost plan (HMOs that were in effect before 1997), you can keep the plan and enroll in a stand-alone drug plan that provides your drug coverage.
If you have a Medicare supplemental insurance policy (Medigap) that includes drug coverage, you are probably better off with Medicare prescription drug coverage. The new benefit will be better than the limited drug coverage provided by Medigap plans H, I and J. However, some plans in Minnesota, Massachusetts and Wisconsin, as well as some older prestandardized Medigap policies, may have coverage that is at least as good as or better than Medicare drug coverage (creditable coverage), which means you will not have to pay a premium penalty for late enrollment.Sometime before November 15, 2005, your Medigap company should send you a letter informing you if you current policy is at least as good as Medicares. If your policy is and you are happy with it, you do not need to do anything. If it is not, consider one of the following courses of action by May 15, 2006:

Cancel your existing Medigap policy, switch to another Medigap policy that does not offer drug coverage (A-G, K or L) and enroll in the Medicare drug benefit. You are probably better off with the new Medicare prescription drug coverage than with the limited coverage offered by these plans. In most cases, you can enroll in another Medigap policy offered by your Medigap insurer, regardless of your health as long as you apply within 63 days after your Medicare drug coverage st

Re: [QUAD-L] New member



Hi Susan,
 
Welcome to the Quad-List.  If your Dad wants to talk to other Dads about being a survivor, without losing his privacy, just have him sign-on to the Quad-List.  We'd be honored to have him join us.  There are Dads here, and there are survivors here too.  I'm 52 so was wondering how old you and your Dad are.  :)  
 
With Love,
CtrlAltDel aka DaveC4/5 Complete - 29 Years PostTexas, USA Susan Johnson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Hi All,I've been working up the courage to post...My Dad is a C3-4 survivor since Oct 5th, 2004. I've been trying toencourage him to seek support. And since his recovery was not in aplace with other SCI patients; he has no idea what anyone else has beenthrough. He's feeling very alone.Do any of you have any ideas what I can possibly do to encourage him toreach out?He was a very private person to begin with and I don't think he canunderstand that other people going through similar conditions canhelpAny info you can offer is deeply appreciated...Sincerely,Susan Ulrich

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia







They just ignored this man is why he died.
He had a bad temper and they didn't like dealing with him.
 
Mark
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/21/05 12:01:46
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia
 
  Ok, Thanks Markalso Tony who used to be on here thought a room mate of his may have died from AD also.I think usually they can find the cause and get it to stop but I guess in some cases it could cause death.
  Dan

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia




  Ok, Thanks Markalso Tony who used to be on here thought a 
room mate of his may have died from AD also.I think usually they can 
find the cause and get it to stop but I guess in some cases it could cause 
death.
  
Dan

Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers







I haven't been to 1 restaurant since my sci because of this and I had a really hard time just letting my family watch me struggle to eat much less a bunch of strangers watching me strap on a fork because I'm 1 handed and that gets tricky at times.
 
But on the other numb hand I'm doing pretty good and learned to eat a hard shell taco, chili dog(not for beginners),pizza(that's easy thank god),hamburgers and just about anything else without cutting them up which is tricky being 1 armed with numb fingers but I make less of a mess than most people do.
 
Mark
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/20/05 17:59:47
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Caregivers
 
I had never heard anyone else complain about their wheelchairs sitting up high and not being able to fit under tables at home or at restaurants.  I always felt this was another way that I looked singled out and will only eat at food courts where I can turn side ways to the table.  I have missed so many gatherings  of my close family at local buffets at the casinos because I would be clogging the aisles . .
Holiday family gatherings are no problems because we cook for 40 and they have to come here if they want to eat.  I can use my desk that clamps on to my chair at home.
Kathy in Mississippi

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia







That was me Dan,
It  happened when I was in a nursing home almost 4 years ago.
He had a bad temper and they just didn't like going in his room which was right next to mine.
I can't say I know it was AD but the hush word around the  nursing home was he died from it.
 
Mark
 
---Original Message---
 

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: 10/21/05 09:26:59
To: quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia
 
 There was a guy that used to post here that said he thought his room-mate died from AD. Have any of you ever heard of anyone dying from it ?    I have only got AD. twice in the 8 1/2 years that i have been paralyzed. The 1st time was almost 2 years ago when i got a bad psuedamonas uti infection. Then now I started getting AD. real bad and had to go into the Hospital for same infection--- I just got home 2 days ago from the Hospital and many IV drugs. They gave me pain pills to help with my AD. After my 1st bad psuedamonas infection I kept getting AD. on and off for nearly a week, This Time I'm still getting it also so I hope it will go away in a few more days. My question is---Many doctors are not real familiar with AD.-- A scary thought comes to my mind--- what if it don't go away or doctors can't find what's causing itI guess it can kill a person. For those that never had it yet---It is severe pounding and sharp pain in head that can keep increasing. 
 Thanks, Dan

[QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia

2005-10-21 Thread TheOmen723




In a message dated 10/21/2005 11:00:15 AM Central Daylight Time, TheOmen723 writes:


In a message dated 10/21/2005 10:20:12 AM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

  Thank you and Bill for more info on this subject also to any others that may respondDo you know where a card on this to carry can be found ?
  Dan
try this website Paralyzed Veterans of America or 
Medical Alert cards are available fromParalyzed Veterans of America (PVA), 1-800-424-8200

--- Begin Message ---



In a message dated 10/21/2005 10:20:12 AM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

  Thank you and Bill for more info on this subject also to any others that may respondDo you know where a card on this to carry can be found ?
  Dan
try this website Paralyzed Veterans of America or 
Medical Alert cards are available fromParalyzed Veterans of America (PVA), 1-800-424-8200 
--- End Message ---

Re: [QUAD-L] falling asleep







I'm the exact same way.
 
 
Mark 
---Original Message---
 

From: tahouston
Date: 10/20/05 17:29:31
To: Jeremy Dickinson
Cc: quad-list@eskimo.com
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] falling asleep
 
I find that I cannot go to sleep without the television on.
 
T. Houston 11 years post-C5-C6

- Original Message - 
From: Jeremy Dickinson 
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 
Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ; quad-list@eskimo.com 
Sent: Tuesday, October 18, 2005 5:18 PM
Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] falling asleep
I had trouble at first but now I sleep fine, unless im hot.
On 10/18/05, [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: 

I've had a terrible time sleeping since I've been hurt, once they took me off morphine when I first got hurt I can't sleep two nights in a row.  I'm not recommending it but, I stay up in my chair every other night, and do a lot of weight shifts.  It makes me sleep good the night I go to bed! 
 
Greg
 
c41991-- Jeremy - 23 - FloridaC-3 Quad since 4/12/01OI Type IV since 7/29/82

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia




  Thank you and Bill for more info on this subject also to any others 
that may respondDo you know where a card on this to carry can be found 
?
  
Dan

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia

2005-10-21 Thread TheOmen723



In a message dated 10/21/2005 9:26:47 AM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

It is severe pounding and sharp pain in head that can keep increasing. 
 Thanks, Dan
 
and sweating and chills and spasms... 
i have a little card that describes what AD is and i carry it with me.  most of the doctors/nurses/caregivers don't have a clue about it.  here is a site about it.
SPINALCORD: Autonomic Dysreflexia - A possible life threatening situation
 
Medical Alert cards are available fromParalyzed Veterans of America (PVA), 1-800-424-8200

Re: [QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia

2005-10-21 Thread MikeyBird3





In a message dated 10/21/2005 10:26:47 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
 There was a guy that used to post here that 
  said he thought his room-mate died from AD. Have any of you ever heard of 
  anyone dying from it ? 

I don't know of anyone dying from it personally, but I suppose it's 
possible since AD increases the blood pressure.  Here's some info:
 Autonomic dysreflexia, also known as 
hyperreflexia, is a state that is unique to patients after spinal cord injury at 
a T-5 level and above. Patients with spinal cord injuries at Thoracic 5 (T-5) 
level and above are very susceptible. Patients with spinal cord injuries at 
Thoracic 6 - Thoracic 10 (T6-T10) may be susceptible. Patients with Thoracic 10 
(T-10) and below are usually not susceptible. Also, the older the injury the 
less likely the person will experience autonomic dysreflexia. 
 
 Autonomic dysreflexia can develop suddenly, and is 
a possible emergency situation. If not treated promptly and correctly, it may 
lead to seizures, stroke, and even death. 
 
 Autonomic dysreflexia means an over-activity of 
the Autonomic Nervous System. It can occur when an irritating stimulus is 
introduced to the body below the level of spinal cord injury, such as an 
overfull bladder. The stimulus sends nerve impulses to the spinal cord, where 
they travel upward until they are blocked by the lesion at the level of injury. 
Since the impulses cannot reach the brain, a reflex is activated that increases 
activity of the sympathetic portion of autonomic nervous system. This results in 
spasms and a narrowing of the blood vessels, which causes a rise in the blood 
pressure. Nerve receptors in the heart and blood vessels detect this rise in 
blood pressure and send a message to the brain. The brain sends a message to the 
heart, causing the heartbeat to slow down and the blood vessels above the level 
of injury to dilate. However, the brain cannot send messages below the level of 
injury, due to the spinal cord lesion, and therefore the blood pressure cannot 
be regulated. 
 
Symptoms and Causes 
 
Pounding headache (caused by the elevation in blood pressure) Goose 
Pimples Sweating above the level of injury Nasal Congestion Slow 
Pulse Blotching of the Skin Restlessness  
There can be many stimuli that cause autonomic dysreflexia. Anything that would 
have been painful, uncomfortable, or physically irritating before the injury may 
cause autonomic dysreflexia after the injury. 
 
 The most common cause seems to be overfilling of 
the bladder. This could be due to a blockage in the urinary drainage device, 
bladder infection (cystitis), inadequate bladder emptying, bladder spasms, or 
possibly stones in the bladder. The second most common cause is a bowel that is 
full of stool or gas. Any stimulus to the rectum, such as digital stimulation, 
can trigger a reaction, leading to autonomic dysreflexia. 
 
 Other causes include skin irritations, wounds, 
pressure sores, burns, broken bones, pregnancy, ingrown toenails, appendicitis, 
and other medical complications. 
 
 PoinTIS Copyright © 1998 the Louis Calder Memorial Library of the 
University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, all rights reserved. 
 
BillLeesburg, 
FLC-6 Incomplete since 7/20/68AOL/AIM ID: MikeyBird3Stupidity is NOT 
a handicap!  Park elsewhere!

Re: [QUAD-L] Dan




  Hi, Ron -  I think I'm getting better, 
I sure hope so, I'm still a bit weak from all the meds and stay in the hospital. 
The amitriptyline seems to help, at first 10 mg really knocked me out now it 
don't seem to have near as strong an effect but I can raise to stronger if i 
need to.
 
Dan

[QUAD-L] About A.D. = Autonomic Dysflexia