Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Tullahoma, TN

How does everyone pay the Xtra cost if the insurance does not cover full cost..A LITTLE CONCERNED DUE TO I HAVE MEDICARE AND I JUST APPLIED FOR BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD MEDICARE ADVANTAGE WITH MY SLMB medicare savings program to help with my cost of needed

7 days ago
 · 
Reactions
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi Deb. Reading some of the contents on the cost of medication for CML. Here in the UK We don't pay for our treatment,
We have the NHS (National Health Service) and all meds are free .I'm on Scemblix (Asciminib)
I was on Imatinib and couldn't cope with it, because of nausea, WBC. wasn't moving. Then, i was given Bosutanib same result!
I'm now taking Asciminib (Scemblix) and the results have been remarkable. WBC zero, and it's been that way for at least 12 months. The cost of which is £4,000 for a pack of 60!!! I've just Googled it and I'm gobsmacked.😲

I take one in the middle of the night because it works better if you take it well clear of food.

The NHS is free for all treatments. In that respect we're quite fortunate for the NHS!!!!

6 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi Deb9, I have a. Agent that is helping me. On January 1st I am switching to Medigap Plan G plus part D drug plan. I don't have the total cost yet. She is getting me this information soon. I do know Medigap will be $301 per month with a $600 deductible. After The deductible is met, all medical expenses are covered by the insurance. You do not have to worry about in or out of network. I live in Maine and will be traveling to Dana Farber in Boston. I don't know if I will pay anything for the Drug coverage πŸ€”. I will be on a 3-drug regimen. Gazyva (IV infusion), Calquence (daily pill) and Venclextra (daily pill). I may be placed on a clinical trial program. If that is the case, the drugs are free. I would have to travel to Boston once a month for the infusion.
I just turned 65 in February and was diagnosed in May. 2026 is an expensive year. But 2027 will be such a sigh of relief. I use the internet a lot to find answers. I'm still knew at all of this but I'm learning quickly. I hope this helps!
Best, Jill

6 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I have medicare and Bliue Cross Blue Shield sipplement. Not cheap, but threre other supplements available. At 77 with leulemia and some other issues, I have never had a bill. Even with an expensive surgery this supplement has paid all costs Medicare has not. The monthly premium cost to me is much better than paying exta costs.

6 days ago
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Thanks everyone I appreciate your help

6 days ago
Instant Answer

It's completely understandable to feel concerned about covering those extra costs β€” navigating Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and savings programs all at once can feel like a part-time job! The good news is that combining Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan and an SLMB savings program is a smart move that many people Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel concerned about covering those extra costs β€” navigating Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and savings programs all at once can feel like a part-time job! The good news is that combining Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan and an SLMB savings program is a smart move that many people with leukemia use to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Here are some additional ways people manage the extra costs: - Co-pay assistance programs β€” The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society offers a co-pay assistance program specifically for blood cancer patients
- Drug manufacturer programs β€” Many leukemia medication manufacturers offer programs to help cover or reduce drug costs
- CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation β€” Provides financial help for treatment-related costs
- HealthWell Foundation & Patient Advocate Foundation β€” Both offer disease-specific financial assistance funds
- Good Days & RareCare β€” Additional organizations that may help cover gaps in coverage One important tip β€” always request itemized bills and compare them to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Studies suggest a large percentage of medical bills contain errors, so reviewing them carefully could save real money.

If managing all of this feels overwhelming, a trusted family member or a medical bill advocate can help navigate the process on your behalf.

7 days ago

Related Questions

View All
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question πŸ’­
Arizona City, AZ