| My name is Ramona Klaudt and I’m from Cleveland, Oklahoma. My doctor diagnosed me with COPD about 7 years ago, while I was in my 50s. It was an unfortunate diagnosis that has led to great difficulty in regards to my finances. Along with an increase in doctor visits came an increase in co-pays for drug prices.
My doctor prescribed various inhalers which included GlaxoSmithKline’s Breo Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta. Though they seemed to be a godsend when I was first started on them, they quickly turned into financial nightmares. When I went to pick up my Breo, I found that it would be more than $400 to pick it up. Luckily I am no longer on Breo as my doctor decided to switch me to just Trelegy Ellipta. I was hoping I would receive some financial relief at that point, but then I found out that the Trelegy would be $350, even with my insurance. I can’t pay that. Thankfully, my doctor has been able to find a coupon for me that drops my co-pay tremendously, and when she hasn’t gotten me the coupon, she saves samples for me. I worry for the future, as I’m not sure the coupons or samples will last forever. If they don’t, there is no way I could afford the $350 for the Trelegy inhaler. GlaxoSmithKline is price gouging patients and reducing their ability to breathe well by pricing their drugs so high. I have two grown children and grandchildren. I enjoy camping and spending time outdoors with my chickens and dogs. I want to be able to spend time with the people and activities I love, and I can’t do that if I can’t afford Trelegy Ellipta. |
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