Profile picture for user ou90d02
Nick J. Family Member

Need hlep for my mother

Hello,

Great information here. I have some questions which I am looking for some guidance on. My mother diabetic, almost renal failure as she requires catheters or dialysis to urinate and CHF patient. Her EF was around 25%. She coded one time in the hospital. Doctors recommend VAD solution for her. In Texas, a permanent resident of US and with no insurance.

1. Can she get VAD device even though she is diabetic and almost completely in renal failure.

2. She has no insurance. Are there any other options available for her such as Medicare or any donation from some organizations. I have read many people who have received VAD devices here, don't always seems to have insurance.

3. Given her condition, will she be a good candidate for VAD device. What are life expectancy with VAD.

Any one on in Houston Texas or anywhere else with some info, Please get in touch. Really appreciate your help. I am really concerned as she is only 62 years old. Looking for a way to perhaps improve here life style and maybe have her living with us for a few more years.

Thank you so much.

Profile picture for user TitaniumHeartofGold
TitaniumHeartofGold

I can't guide you insurance-wise but can say from experience that the LVAD improved my husband's kidney function almost immediately by restoring the bloodflow. If the doctors are suggesting it then she'd be a good candidate - you have to meet certain medical guidelines to be considered for one. And according to this site, the longest LVAD recipient has had one for 8 years now. The hospital has to have a financial coordinator or social worker to help you out, and if you read the posts here you'll discover that you'll find goodhearted people willing to offer support and even extra supplies. If you must pay anything then get put on a payment plan with the hospital for so much a month just to show a good faith effort. Good luck with everything.