ADHD struggles

[mouthy53]

Hi, I was diagnosed with ADHD back in 2014. I am ready to try different meds for it and was wondering how much doctors charge for visits and prescription usually because I do not have health insurance. Any ball park figures would be greatly appreciated.

[STEM_Dad]

How much a doctor charges could vary widely, based on the area, whether they are part of a healthcare group or a private practice, and other factors.

Check with people you know in your area. Get recommendations of doctors and practices. Then call those doctors' offices.

Explain that you would need to pay out of pocket. Sometimes, the rates are lower if you are paying for services yourself.

(When I had my wisdom teeth extraction, I paid 15% less than the original quoted amount, because I was paying cash. The higher quote was intended for an insurance company, because insurance companies will negotiate the cost down as low as possible. So practitioners start the negotiation with a higher amount.)

Also, sometimes there are assistance programs which the doctor's office participates in or knows about.

[mouthy53 in reply to STEM_Dad]

thanks for the advice.

[Knitting20projects]

I think you’re potentially facing a very high cost for medication, although it can vary based on what you get prescribed. Also you’ll need regular visits to continue getting prescriptions. I’m wondering if you could apply for Medicaid or another option just to have something. I don’t know what options exist in your area. We have gotten my son’s generic methylphenidate extended release for $35 at a local pharmacy without our insurance because our insurance pharmacy couldn’t get ahold of it. That local pharmacy had a discount card (Kroger chain). Maybe an option?

[mouthy53 in reply to Knitting20projects]

thanks I will look into that.

[Knitting20projects]

Some cities have clinics with “sliding scale” payment programs that do a financial screening of your income and set a price for your appointment based on that. I don’t think they usually cover pharmacy costs for medications but it might be a way to get a medical or behavioral health appointment. In my metro area we have several clinic systems like this. Also, the full price for my son’s generic medication was about $55 for a month supply I think. I know that’s still expensive but a little better than some medications for ADHD.