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Is anyone else in a similar situation that they cannot get health insurance? I have UC, was first diagnosed in May 2001. Lost my job October 2002, along with insurance coverage. I did not opt for COBRA (should have - I didn't know this was going to be an issue!).

I am now a Realtor...we are considered "independent contractors" so there's no group insurance.

I've been turned down by Blue Cross and Unicare, and neither is willing to have an exclusion for the UC - apparently it's on their "NO WAY CAN THESE PEOPLE BE COVERED" list, along with AIDS, cancer and the like. I feel so discriminated against!

There is a program through the state that offers coverage to everyone, but 1) there's a waiting list to even be accepted, 2) it's like $300/month for one person, and 3) you can't use it until you've had 9 months of coverage. What a deal. Thanks, Illinois.

I wish I'd be able to care for the UC more by visiting the doc more often but I just can't afford to. And honestly, being a clutz, I'm most concerned about other things that might happen to me, like falling off a ladder and being able to have routine check ups.

Anyone have any advice?

Thanks, everyone!

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