My brother desperately needs health insurance, how can I get him some when I'm on such a tight budget?

Question

My older brother has tourets syndrome and aspergers and it was suggested that he try a gluten-free diet so help counter the weight issue he's been having as well as other symptoms. He was enthusiastic and tried it, but he now says it hurts just to touch his stomach. He does not sleep well either. There are so many problems which he needs extensive care for, but he cannot work. He goes to college and that is all he can handle.

My parents are having financial problems as it is, they can't get him health insurance. I have a part-time job and I'm a full-time student so I don't have much, but he needs help. Does anyone know of any way to get aid or discount health insurance that will cover the tests he needs.

Answer 1

If your brother has been diagnosed with tourets syndrome and aspergers by a physician he qualifies for social security disability. You said he is in college so I assume he is over 18, that being the case your parents income will not be counted toward his social security benefits...unless he is living at home, then he will receive a reduced amount. In any case, he will also be eligible for state health insurance. I live in Michigan, here it is called Medicaid. Another thing to check into, if he is under 21, is the children's special health care program in your state, he may qualify for that as well, though it will expire when he is 21. Medicaid will not.

I am the parent of a child with disabilities, I have been dealing with this for over 20 years now. I also have a degree in social work. There is help out there for your brother, you just need to know where to look. Be prepared to fill out tons of paper work and keep appointments. This can be an uphill battle. Call your local health department for information on the children's special health care program in your state. Call your local social security office to get him signed up for disability benefits. Call you local department of human services to receive information about your states medical program [Medicaid]. Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't be intimidated by any case workers, etc., they are there to HELP YOU, it is their job, if they are not helping you, ask to speak to someone else until you get the information you  need.

Good luck to you, and thank you for caring so much for your brother. He is lucky to have you for a sister.