Living with a chronic health condition presents a myriad of challenges, and for many students, the financial burden can be overwhelming. As university students, we often find ourselves balancing academic responsibilities, part-time work, and social engagements. However, when chronic health conditions enter the equation, this equilibrium is disrupted, and the financial implications can extend far beyond what Medicare subsidies cover.
One of the most significant issues faced by students with chronic health conditions is the cost of managing their health. From medication expenses to doctor’s visits and specialised treatments, the financial strain can quickly accumulate. Unlike full-time employees who may have access to comprehensive health insurance plans through their employers, students are often left to navigate the complexities of healthcare with limited resources on their own.
Take, for example, the case of chronic migraine, a condition that affects countless individuals, including myself. The daily pain and accompanying symptoms not only take a toll on one’s physical and psychological well-being but also pose significant financial challenges. The cost of prescription medications, doctor’s appointments, and alternative therapies adds up, placing an additional burden on already tight budgets felt during the cost of living crisis. I pay $300 a month for my prescription medication Ajovy, totalling $3,600 a year. Including other migraine expenses (listed below) my expenditure is around $7,000.
I know firsthand the struggle of managing chronic migraines as a student. Each day brings the uncertainty of whether a migraine attack will strike, disrupting my ability to focus on academics and work. Despite seeking relief through various treatments and medications, the financial strain of managing my condition remains a constant concern. The University has not been particularly accommodating, with impossible attendance requirements still mandatory for disabled students in certain units.
Living with daily migraines as a student is not just a physical and emotional challenge but also a significant financial burden. With the addition of necessary monthly neurologist appointments, the financial strain becomes even more daunting. I’ve had to navigate a complex web of expenses while juggling academic responsibilities and managing my health. I am studying with the goal of becoming a clinical psychologist, and I have already begun working to manage some personal and professional fears: that I may not ever be able to work full-time, and that I may not be able to provide the quality of care that I hope to. I definitely spend more time resting and recuperating, as I will get tired more easily than my peers. I am currently a volunteer crisis supporter with our national suicide hotline, and whilst the work is incredible at developing my clinical acumen, it often fills me with worry as I take time away from paid work that could be helping me raise funds for my medical expenses.
The financial impact of daily migraines and monthly neurologist appointments extends far beyond the cost of medication and doctor’s visits. Here are some of the ways in which managing this condition has affected my finances:
Medical Expenses
The cost of prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies, and specialised treatments for migraines can quickly escalate. With daily migraines, I often find myself relying on various medications to manage symptoms, which can strain my budget, especially on a student income. Neuromodulation devices like Cefaly and gammaCore cost over hundreds of dollars a year, with the Cefaly at $499 flat, then around $60 every few months, and the gammaCore at $300 a month.
Neurologist Appointments
Monthly visits to the neurologist are essential for monitoring my condition, adjusting medications, and exploring new treatment options. However, each appointment comes with its own set of expenses, including co-pays, transportation costs, and potential lost wages from missed classes or work.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Living with daily migraines often requires making lifestyle adjustments to manage triggers and minimise symptoms. This may include investing in ergonomic furniture, purchasing special eyewear, or modifying diet and exercise routines, all of which come with their own financial implications. The Avulux frames cost me over $900 and the Theraspecs frames were $150.
Lost Productivity
Migraines can significantly impact my ability to work, study, and participate in extracurricular activities. Missed classes, deadlines, and opportunities for part-time work result in lost income and disadvantaged educational opportunities, exacerbating the pressures of financial strain.
Additionally, the impact of chronic health conditions extends beyond the individual student to their families. Many students rely on familial support to cover medical expenses not covered by Medicare subsidies. This places added pressure on already stretched household budgets, further highlighting the interconnectedness of health and financial well-being.
So, what can be done to alleviate the financial burden faced by students with chronic health conditions? Firstly, there is a need for increased awareness and understanding of the challenges these students experience. University administrations and policymakers must recognise the unique needs of those under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or experiencing chronic health issues and implement support systems to address them.
There is a pressing need for improved access to affordable healthcare options for students. This could include expanded health insurance coverage through universities, increased funding for student health centres, and greater access to mental health resources to address the psychological toll of chronic illness.
Additionally, universities can implement flexible academic accommodations to support students managing chronic health conditions. This may include flexible attendance policies, extended deadlines, and access to alternative learning formats to accommodate periods of illness.
As students, we must also advocate for ourselves and each other. By sharing our experiences and raising awareness of the challenges we face, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their health status.
It is no small feat in managing the complex web of issues that orbit dealing with chronic health conditions as a student. And we know Medicare and current structures are not enough. The financial strain, coupled with the demands of an academic and working life, creates significant challenges for students navigating chronic illness. However, by raising awareness, advocating for change, and implementing supportive measures, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive university experience for all students.