Sadly, many people with ME/CFS do not have the financial means to pay for the medical care that they need. They may have lost their jobs due to the illness, without a doctor willing to sign off on their disability. They may have lost family or even spousal financial support as they struggle to believe that what their loved one is experiencing is real – especially since many doctors refuse to acknowledge their illness.
Even if a person with ME/CFS has health insurance (in the US), the best known treatments for it are not FDA approved, and therefore, not covered by that insurance. Some lucky patients make get a discount on some of the labs tests if the doctor knows exactly how to code them, however much of the indicator-type tests for ME/CFS are not covered at all by insurance.
Doctors and other clinicians who choose to learn about and treat ME/CFS patients have many requests to lower or eliminate fees due to these circumstances, and many try to do just that, but then struggle to keep their practices open and well-functioning and must dedicate much of their valuable time to managing the financial burden of this.
As I write these words, though this website and FB support groups, I know of several people who are waiting to be diagnosed and to see ME/CFS doctors but cannot afford the care. (Not even the first step in care.) Would you consider donating the cost of a cup of coffee or possibly more in order to support these patients? If so, they and I thank you so much. And if you are someone who is struggling yourself, please know that there are many of us working and asking and looking to find solutions. Hang in there and know that we will overcome this – possibly very soon.