Infusion abroad

stephibabe2

Hi, I have been on the infusion of Toczilizimab for just over a year now. I am looking into spending a few months in America next year and was just wondering if anyone has had any experience of having an infusion outside of the UK? Is it possible to do this and is it quite easy to arrange?

Thanks! Steph

dreamdaisy

I have absolutely no idea but I do urge caution: the NHS works free at the point of use over here (and in fellow EU countries if you have the right paperwork) but more than likely not in the States. You may have to pay a very hefty bill, not only for the drug but also for the 'use' of the hospital and nurses. DD

stickywicket

I would echo DD's words 100%. Getting an infusion would probably not be much of a problem but funding it.... :shock: Everything medical costs in the USA. There are no reciprocal health arrangements. The cost of tocilizumab is, I believe, somewhere between $1,000 - $2,000 per month. Then you'd need to pay the medics too.

Maybe your first port of call should be a specialist travel insurance company.

stephibabe2

Thanks for the advice! I see what you mean about the cost, not sure I will be able to afford to pay for it myself Do you think a insurance company would cover an infusion? Looks like it will be something I would have to research into. It will be unfortunate if I would be unable to go due to the infusion.
Thanks again for the help, Steph

stickywicket

My point about the specialist travel health insurers was that they might have some experience of how people deal with this kind of problem. I don't think there's a chance that they'd pay for it. The only person who might take on the costs is your employer if it's a work-related visit. I guess you could ask your rheumatologist if there's any way round it but personally I just can't see one. I'm sorry but these meds are very expensive.