Linda, Debbie, Bill, Pamme et al.
I had DBS surgery 1 1/2 years ago and am pleased with the results. Except
for some dystonia in my right (less affected) arm my symptoms are
significantly reduced. I have no off periods at all and I walk with
a walker where before I was wheel chair bound. (and had preexisting
weakness in my left leg due to polio as a kid.) It takes time
to adjust the IPG (pulse generators) correctly.
Also re insurance - some will pay and some will not. I
believe medicare will pay but I am not certain of this.
Charlie
At 05:33 PM 11/3/00 -0500, you wrote:
I have a question - Since DBS has
not yet received FDA approval, and I
assume is still considered experimental in the US, how difficult is it
to
be accepted for the surgery? How do you find a qualified surgeon? Do
you
have to be enrolled in a study? Does Medicare, Medicaid or any
private
insurance presently cover the costs of the surgery, the device and
the
follow up adjustments?
Ok - that was actually more than 1 question, but would appreciate
answers
to any or all of them.
Thanks,
Linda
Charles T. Meyer, M.D.
Middleton, WI
PD DX 12 years (at age 44)
Age 56
