Issels: Has anyone had treatments from... - Lung Cancer Support

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Issels

Firedance profile image
7 Replies

Has anyone had treatments from Issels Immuno-Oncology in Santa Barbara California?

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Firedance profile image
Firedance
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7 Replies
GMC1 profile image
GMC1

Please tell us more about Issels. I have never heard of it. I am always eager to learn as much about any and all treatments available. And thank you.

lanaearle profile image
lanaearle in reply to GMC1

I got some info. They use a hospital in Tijuana, Mexico then they transport you to Santa Barbara. Sounds good but very pricey

GMC1 profile image
GMC1 in reply to lanaearle

Wonder why they use Mexico when you can get immune medications in the states. Guess your insurance doesn't pay for it either.

ThePurplePlace profile image
ThePurplePlace in reply to GMC1

GMC1 -- The type of Immunotherpay used at Issels is not the same as those used and FDA approved in the US (ie. Opdivo and Keytruda etc.). This is a type of "Alternative Treatment Facility" and the main facility is located in Tijuana, Mexico. Unless you have the financial resources to pay for this treatment "out of pocket" it's not something that will likely be covered by "most" US based Health Insurance carriers. From what I read on their website, it sounds like you will need to pay for these treatments and they will then provide you with Itemized bills that you can submit to your insurer -- However, that this not a guarantee that they would be reimbursable and it's definitely something I would want to talk to my insurer with in advance.

SOURCE: issels.com/faqs-frequently-... --

INSURANCE -- Although the Issels Medical Center does not directly accept insurance for the payment of fees of the immunobiologic treatment program, most insurance companies do offer reimbursement at various levels for our treatment. At the end of the treatment program patients receive an itemized bill with codes that they can submit to their insurance provider.

If you go to their website-you can read all about the services they offer. issels.com

Personally, I'd much rather stick with the Immunotherapy options we have her in the US

GMC1 profile image
GMC1 in reply to ThePurplePlace

I very much agree with you. I do believe in the alternative if all else fails but best to go the traditional route first. I use homeopathic and herbs for a lot of non-life threatening things. I have a medical background and believe traditional and alternative are both good. One of my daughters has two grown children who have never taken a antibiotic due to her deligent research for the natural God given remedies.

Thank you for your explanation.

Firedance profile image
Firedance

Thank you laneearl

Jvoulo profile image
Jvoulo

Please read this before you make any decision.

skepdic.com/issels.html