CT and Lung Nodules

Sandy, My inhaler is a corticosteroid not for asthma but for radiation induced pulmonary fibrosis. It is prescribed to stop the horrible cough caused by nerves exposed to air by the reticular remodeling of the interstitium. There's also the chance that it might prevent the fibrosis from advancing. Two different clinical trials were proposed (China and Mexico) but never ran due to lack of enrollment, not surprising since RIPF is so rare. The top two lobes of my right lung are shot; I'm hoping the current consolidation throughout the lung isn't a progression. Unfortunately this ILD gives me a 58% chance of getting lung cancer so my nodules are monitored.

Currently my inhaler is covered by part D but Anthem and three other insurance companies have pulled out of the state for next year and none of the seven plans left have it on the formulary. My pulmo will request an exemption but is also proactive. When I was hospitalized for several days at the end of July I ended up with inhalers for three months even though my other meds were given to me pill by pill. I really feel sorry for the many people on Advantage plans who will be kicked out of nursing homes if they can't find another plan to take them. Since NH is a state with an older population leaving is how health insurance companies can control their costs.

Bookworm, It’s good to hear from you. Yesterday I signed up for the least bad Medicare prescription drug plan. At least my medigap plan is being continued next year. I hope you can find an Advantage plan that will work for you.

I’m glad you had a good Thanksgiving and have plans for Christmas with your family. We went to NYC to visit my son, daughter and their families at the end of September. They are all planning to come visit in January. I cooked a turkey for two of us on Thanksgiving and will do the same for Christmas since I like the leftovers.

Thank you for your well wishes. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.