Patient Profile: Javier
Javier was referred to the Mission for follow-up care after being diagnosed with diabetes at the Trauma Center.
Eight months ago 21-year-old Javier found himself in the hospital with heart failure and no insurance. It was during that time that he learned he also has diabetes and was referred to the Mission for follow-up care.
“I really needed the help,” he said. “I can’t afford $95 for a bottle of insulin.”
Javier works just under 40 hours a week at Wal-Mart and won’t be eligible for full-time hours or benefits such as health insurance until he’s been an employee there for a year.
“I don’t make much money,” he said, “and my bills take all my money.”
Javier actually has been prescribed two kinds of insulin, which when combined with the cost of syringes, total more than $200 each month. At the Mission, Javier is able to order a three-month’s supply of each kind of insulin for $3 per prescription, and he’s not shy about telling his friends and co-workers about the help he receives at the clinic.
“I tell other people that the Mission can help them, too,” he said. “If not for this clinic, I think I’d be in a coma right now because I wouldn’t be able to get the insulin I need.”
