Hernia Repair

[kempoka]

Several years ago, I had gastric bypass surgery and lost a LOT of weight. A few years later, I had a hernia, and the surgical repair for it. A couple of months ago, I discovered that the mesh patch used in the repair has been recalled. So, I started gathering information about it, but since I had no problems, it was definitely on the back burner, especially since I have no medical insurance, and no financial resources to get it fixed. A few days ago, I had coughed and noticed a big bulge at the site of the repair. Pain started increasing, so the next day I went to the doctor ($80 that I didn't have to spare. Some other bill will have to go unpaid this month.) to be assessed. I told the doctor that I was worried that my hernia had blown through again. He examined me, and said, "I concur with your diagnosis." Since he knew I have no medical insurance, and that the mesh patch I have has been recalled, he suggested that I see an attorney. I called one of the firms that advertise on our local TV station. They said they don't really handle medical product recalls, but referred me to another local firm experienced in these cases. The attorney has my information, but says the litigation really can't proceed until after my revision. Unfortunately for me, I have no insurance, no money to pay (I just started a new job last week, won't be eligible for their insurance for 3 months, and even then it will be a pre-existing condition.), and only a hope of some reimbursement in the future IF my litigation is successful. When my previous hernia repair happened, I had good insurance (Blue Cross/Blue Shield), and they got me right in and took care of me. I now do not have insurance, and even with the exact same set of symptoms, I was told that many people can do just fine for years without surgical repair. I was of course told to avoid lifting, and if it gets worse to give the clinic a call. Big difference! So, I have a need to have the big bulge on my belly repaired, and in fact have a surgical consult scheduled in a few weeks, and will be interested to see what the response is when the surgeon finds out I am financially empty. Money is certainly possible IF the litigation is successful, but I just wish I could find some way to get help now to get this fixed. I really don't want my belly to split open, and I feel I have no options to get this fixed right now. Ideas?