New to this - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

Lynda73 · 04-26-2007, 06:38 PM

Hi, I was diagnosed with MS in 1998. I am now in my early thirties. I have been on two of the ABC preventative drugs however, I continue to break through. I have recently decided with my DR. to start Tysabri. I have one major problem. I do not understand the insurance bit. They all want prepayment because I have to go to some special site etc... and I haven't been injected yet. Has anyone else switched to this medicine and have nightmares with Insurance? I would appreciate any advise on how the situation was resolved.

Lynda

msladyinca · 04-28-2007, 12:20 PM

Hi Lynda!

See the Tysabri Talk thread in this forum.

Quote:

They all want prepayment because I have to go to some special site etc... and I haven't been injected yet.

The "special site" is a Certified Infusion Center pursuant to the TOUCH protocol..and Tysabri is not "injected" dearheart, it's administered by IV infusion (which is a slow drip of approx. l hr)..I've had 7 infusions thus far, and you should contact your TOUCH Case Manager through MSActiveSource if you have specific "pre-authorization" problems.

Again, check out the other thread above, keep us posted there and best wishes always...,

(((hugs)))

Lauren

sunshine149 · 04-29-2007, 09:04 AM

I don't have any advice on your topic but I wanted to say hello cause you and I are similar. I was diagnosed in 1997 and I am 33. I have not taken any interferon drugs so I can't advise on Tysabri other than it's an infusion treatment and should not be taken in combination with other interferons.

purplegolfer · 04-30-2007, 07:23 AM

When I was getting started, my Dr told me the people at Touch would help with the insurance. They were able to get Tysabri on the approved and covered list of my insurance before my first infusion. Just had my second infusion Friday and everything was covered. I would call up the Touch program- if your doctor has already prescribed the Tysabri, they should have been in touch with already. Good luck- I've had no reactions to the infusions...just a scheduled 2-3 hour break once a month. Almost fell asleep this last time!

msladyinca · 04-30-2007, 01:06 PM

Woo hoo hoo Jen!

Post your comments in the "Tysabri Talk" thread too pleeeeeeeeazzze?

Oh yeah

Lauren