Author Topic: Has anyone been to The Australian Buyers Club? (Read 63462 times)

laublair · « **on:** October 11, 2015, 03:40:26 pm »

Would like to hear from anyone who has dealt with The Fix Hep C group from Australia.
Greg Jeffreys recommends them. ??

Coach Mike · « **Reply #1 on:** October 12, 2015, 03:03:11 pm »

This is a great thing they are doing "down under" but is only accessible to Australians it seems. Very strict import/export guidelines.
CM

laublair · « **Reply #2 on:** October 12, 2015, 06:03:29 pm »

Yes You have to go there to pick up meds. Less expensive than paying for US Harvoni. I am pretty sure I am going. I have an appointment (online) with Australian Dr. this Weds. I will keep posting.

Philadelphia · « **Reply #3 on:** October 21, 2015, 03:33:04 am »

I've seen people posting there from all over the world, so I'd be interested to know if the Aust only statement is true. There are different import restrictions in different countries which may affect the access to meds.

laublair · « **Reply #4 on:** October 21, 2015, 07:05:26 am »

I had my online appointment with Dr. Freeman in Australia. Google GP2u Telehealth

Everything looks good there. He prescribed the generic Harvoni for me. I will go to Australia next month to pick up my medication if everything goes OK. The generic harvoni costs $1980. The trip to Australia will be expensive. Much less than trying to get brand name Harvoni here in the states however. I will have a little vacation as well. Sydney is supposed to be beautiful and it will be spring there.

I will keep posting.

Philadelphia · « **Reply #5 on:** October 21, 2015, 07:11:44 am »

Look on the bright side - your US$ exchange rate is awesome right now! Next month will see you firmly in summer weather. It'll be quite warm. If you are travelling to Tasmania it'll be cooler. Sydney accomm is frightfully expensive. If you are looking for recommendations, let me know. It's one of the most expensive places to stay. If you have the capacity to travel a little I'd get out and about and go other places too.

laublair · « **Reply #6 on:** October 21, 2015, 07:17:06 am »

Thanks Philly. I will stay positive!!

Philadelphia · « **Reply #7 on:** October 21, 2015, 07:28:18 am »

It's probably relevant at this point to say I live in Australia, not Philadelphia.

laublair · « **Reply #8 on:** October 21, 2015, 07:48:28 am »

Ha Very Good!

Else · « **Reply #9 on:** October 22, 2015, 02:18:42 pm »

Hi laublair,

From what I understand, Harvoni is not available in India yet. Not generic or otherwise. So it wouldn't be available for exportation to any country. Bangladesh is producing a generic Harvoni though.

I'm wondering if you've been told you can bring a full course of treatment (let's say 3 months) back into the U.S. The rules for importation of personal-use medications are written vaguely to put it mildly and seem open to interpretation.

What a sec - I shouldn't assume you live the the U.S. Where are you from?

laublair · « **Reply #10 on:** October 22, 2015, 06:19:14 pm »

Yes I am living in the US. I do know the Harvoni is not available yet in India. The generic Harvoni is being made by Mesochem in China. The Australian "buyers club" is importing it as a powder, testing it then making capsules. google: fix hepC buyers club

I spoke with a Dr. on FaceTime. He is the founder. Dr. J. Freeman. Anyway the cost for the generic harvoni is $1980. USD. I hope everything is legit because I am flying there next month. US allows personal use import of medication with a prescription. Which I will have.
I do not want to wait any longer to get treatment. Insurance companies here do not want to pay and refuse unless patient has advanced liver disease. (in many cases) I think some people have been successful. I do not want to wait to find out. I am uninsured at present.

Else · « **Reply #11 on:** October 22, 2015, 07:36:10 pm »

Currently Gilead Pharmaceuticals is offering a patient assistance program (Harvoni at no charge!) if you are uninsured. There are some income restrictions (making under 100K) but I heard even that has some wiggle room.

It's worth a phone call to see if you qualify. http://www.mysupportpath.com/

Otherwise, bon voyage and safe travels! I seriously considered the route you're taking myself, before I had all my insurance denials overturned by an external reviewer.

laublair · « **Reply #12 on:** October 22, 2015, 07:45:40 pm »

Gilead wanted me to apply for medicaid first. I was turned down for that. Gilead is a greedy pharmaceutical company. They want $$ they don't care about helping people.

Else · « **Reply #13 on:** October 22, 2015, 08:55:19 pm »

I agree wholeheartedly that greed drives the pricing decisions of the big pharmaceutical companies.

However, having Medicaid would precluded you from using their patient assistance program. Here's a snippet of the July 1st changes to the program:

Quote

You are not eligible if you are enrolled in a government healthcare prescription drug program such as Medicaid or Medicare Part D.

Strange that you would have been encouraged to do that. But since you were turned down by Medicaid, that means you still qualify for the program. There are a lot of people on this site who received their medication this way - paid in full.

I'd check out that link.

Bree · « **Reply #14 on:** October 22, 2015, 08:59:26 pm »

If you were turned down for medicaid, have no insurance and and financially fit the Gilead guidelines, you may be able to get it through Support Path. I had a little different scenario, but they helped me with 12 week Harvoni treatment at no charge for which I am eternally grateful. One key is to do a notarized letter regarding your fiances and supply financial documentation.

KimInTheForest · « **Reply #15 on:** October 23, 2015, 02:35:54 pm »

Quote from: laublair on October 22, 2015, 06:19:14 pm

Yes I am living in the US. I do know the Harvoni is not available yet in India. The generic Harvoni is being made by Mesochem in China. The Australian "buyers club" is importing it as a powder, testing it then making capsules. google: fix hepC buyers club

I spoke with a Dr. on FaceTime. He is the founder. Dr. J. Freeman. Anyway the cost for the generic harvoni is $1980. USD. I hope everything is legit because I am flying there next month. US allows personal use import of medication with a prescription. Which I will have.

Good luck, Laublair! Sounds like you have all your ducks in a row on this. Do keep posting progress reports for the rest of us. And good for you for not giving up, and for finding a way to get the drugs you need. Make your Australia trip a holiday if you have time. Celebrate the first step toward your New Life free of Hep C.

best of luck,
kim

laublair · « **Reply #16 on:** October 23, 2015, 05:39:26 pm »

thank you Kimin the forest I love that name. I have seen your posts on here for awhile .I don't know if all my ducks are in a row but I hope they line up that way! My biggest fear is the meds won't be ready when I am in Australia. I am only there for a week. I do hope to see some sights and do little shopping. A girlfriend is going with me. I will post no matter what happens. I will let everyone know if Hep C buyers club is the real deal or a rip off.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #17 on:** October 25, 2015, 05:02:14 pm »

Hi All,
Started my Chinese generic Harvoni Friday. Got it directly from Mesochem. 4 days after I wired the $1916. Dr. Freeman said he had never seen a bad test result on any API supplied directly from the company. So I used his "mum" test: Based on being able to find absolutely Nothing online about bogus products from BMT, I would allow my mother to take them.
Maybe it is expensive sugar.
I don't think so.
Will keep all posted.
CM

KimInTheForest · « **Reply #18 on:** October 25, 2015, 05:28:28 pm »

Quote from: Coach Mike on October 25, 2015, 05:02:14 pm

Hi All,
Started my Chinese generic Harvoni Friday. Got it directly from Mesochem. 4 days after I wired the $1916. Dr. Freeman said he had never seen a bad test result on any API supplied directly from the company. So I used his "mum" test: Based on being able to find absolutely Nothing online about bogus products from BMT, I would allow my mother to take them.
Maybe it is expensive sugar.
I don't think so.
Will keep all posted.
CM

Great to hear, Mike! Do keep us posted. I think this Australian Buyers Club for generic Harvoni is a very interesting development that could benefit a great many people for as long as that door remains open. And as long as it is the real deal, which it sounds like it is.

best,
kim

laublair · « **Reply #19 on:** October 25, 2015, 06:15:40 pm »

Thanks Mike. That is what I wanted to hear! I go to Australia next month. if you don't mind my asking ... Do you live there?

Coach Mike · « **Reply #20 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:10:19 pm »

I live in Arkansas. I just decided to order the APIs directly from Mesochem and have them tested in the U.S. BUT, after a week of research trying to find ANYTHING negative about BMT and consulting with Dr. Freeman via email, I decided to forego the $5100.00 testing fee and 3 week wait.
I am rolling the dice. The APIs came with documentation that seems to have never been shown to be inaccurate after many, many tests in Australia.
I feel good about it. Time will tell.
CM

KimInTheForest · « **Reply #21 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:13:00 pm »

Quote from: Coach Mike on October 25, 2015, 07:10:19 pm

I live in Arkansas. I just decided to order the APIs directly from Mesochem and have them tested in the U.S. BUT, after a week of research trying to find ANYTHING negative about BMT and consulting with Dr. Freeman via email, I decided to forego the $5100.00 testing fee and 3 week wait.
I am rolling the dice. The APIs came with documentation that seems to have never been shown to be inaccurate after many, many tests in Australia.
I feel good about it. Time will tell.
CM

And do you then get a local pharmacy to measure it out into capsules for you, in correct daily doasge? Because it comes in bulk powder form doesn't it?

kim

Coach Mike · « **Reply #22 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:20:46 pm »

I did it myself. $20 extremely accurate milligram scales (AWS-ebay) and one of the great devices below:
http://www.torpac.com/funnels.htm
I took my time and put the sof. In one 00 cap and the led. In another.
Worked like a charm
Mg

KimInTheForest · « **Reply #23 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:28:31 pm »

Quote from: Coach Mike on October 25, 2015, 07:20:46 pm

I did it myself. $20 extremely accurate milligram scales (AWS-ebay) and one of the great devices below:
http://www.torpac.com/funnels.htm
I took my time and put the sof. In one 00 cap and the led. In another.
Worked like a charm
Mg

Cool! I like it.

kim

Coach Mike · « **Reply #24 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:41:20 pm »

the 00 funnel with 1000 capsules:$75.00.
Time to carefully measure a months worth of each: 2 hrs.
The feeling after taking the first two caps: priceless!!
I am really surprised Gilead or some of their investotrs haven't started a disinformation campaign online about this route to a cure. Instead, they seem to be focusing theit deep pockets on their cronies in D.C. to stop these life saving treatments at the border.
The Gilead Motto:
You life for you life savings...
CM

Coach Mike · « **Reply #25 on:** October 25, 2015, 07:46:03 pm »

Sorry about the typos...
Big fingers...

laublair · « **Reply #26 on:** October 25, 2015, 08:12:59 pm »

Wow I am impressed! It was shipped from China or Australia? It was tested in Australia? Dr. Freeman told me they will not ship any meds out of the country. They want to stay legal. confused

Coach Mike · « **Reply #27 on:** October 25, 2015, 09:02:25 pm »

Shipped directly from China. I asked Dr. Freeman if he had ever tested any APIs delivered directly from the company that were not as purported. His answer: No
CM

laublair · « **Reply #28 on:** October 25, 2015, 10:02:31 pm »

That is fantastic! I feel stupid now for going to Australia. Ha Not really. It will be nice vacation.

Keep posting your results. So great! I hope millions of Americans get the generic.
Shame on Gilead Sciences and their obscene price.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #29 on:** October 26, 2015, 06:07:37 am »

DO NOT feel stupid!! I was simply waiting to go to India in December. When I came across Greg and Dr. Freeman, I changed that to Australia in November. But, after a lot of scouring the web and dozens of emails to down under, I decided to just risk the $2000. Tracked it every step of the way. I was so happy to see "arrived in Memphis"!! I knew the part totally out of my control was behind me.
I like to have options.
We haven't had those for a long time.
We may not have them much longer.
Go as soon as you can.
Good Luck.
Pet a joey for me!
CM

laublair · « **Reply #30 on:** October 26, 2015, 06:35:16 am »

thank you so much Coach. It is great that we finally have options. And some choices with different meds. You are intelligent to figure out how to make your own capsules.
I would not have thought of that or considered doing it. AWESOME

Coach Mike · « **Reply #31 on:** November 04, 2015, 02:00:29 pm »

On Day 14 of my Chinese generics and I am feeling really better! I have already scheduled my 4 week tests.
I will keep everyone posted.
Minor headache-gone after day 3. Sleeping great, more energy, in a better place mentally.
Mike

Else · « **Reply #32 on:** November 04, 2015, 02:05:09 pm »

I'm so excited for you, Coach! Kudos for taking control of your health and future health into your own hands!!! You're exploring new territory that may very well save lives. Hat's off to you!

laublair · « **Reply #33 on:** November 04, 2015, 03:40:29 pm »

That is fantastic news. You should be so proud of yourself. GREAT!

Coach Mike · « **Reply #34 on:** November 04, 2015, 04:11:06 pm »

Thanks to you Both!!
I want to help anyone who is interested in how to get the generic APIs from China. The supplier I used has had their products tested hundreds of times by Dr. Freeman in Australia and they has NEVER tested out as being anything other than 99+% pure.
This window may not be open for long, if it is still open at all, but I believe it is.

My whole story is on fixhepc under Patient Stories, Hopeful in the U.S.
Generic Harvoni due in India November 7 from what I hear. Price starting around $1500. Things are loosening up folks!!
Mike

Bree · « **Reply #35 on:** November 04, 2015, 04:25:03 pm »

Thank you for being a pioneer and early adopter and wanting to help people!!!
I wish you the best with being cured once and for all!!! Bree

Coach Mike · « **Reply #36 on:** November 04, 2015, 06:49:57 pm »

Hey Bree,
and thank you for your kind remarks. If being a "pioneer" is someone who is totally frustrated,beyond the scope of words, with a system that allows desparately ill people to suffer needlessly when an effective, relatively affordable cure to their ailment is priced totally out of their ability to pay-then that describes me accurately.
Our system is really broken. Since the people in power won't fix the problem, we must fix it ourselves.
Mike

Bree · « **Reply #37 on:** November 04, 2015, 07:33:58 pm »

Quote from: Coach Mike on November 04, 2015, 06:49:57 pm

Hey Bree,
and thank you for your kind remarks. If being a "pioneer" is someone who is totally frustrated,beyond the scope of words, with a system that allows desparately ill people to suffer needlessly when an effective, relatively affordable cure to their ailment is priced totally out of their ability to pay-then that describes me accurately.
Our system is really broken. Since the people in power won't fix the problem, we must fix it ourselves.
Mike

Mike, I totally agree. When I learned of Harvoni in January of this year from my internist (I had ignored commercials thinking it was an interferon ad), I became obsessed with getting it. I was referred to a specialist who wrote the script but that's about it. He wouldn't even write a letter on my behalf. After the first denial, I got a lawyer who specializes in getting necessary medical treatments from insurance (I don't think he ever lost, until... Harvoni). Long winding road story short, I kept going, even though my doc said "you have time" (who came up with that b.s. phrase!) and ultimately got it from Support Path right before their policy changed. Even he was amazed I got it due to extreme perseverance (and aligning stars).

Had it not happened that way, I would have totally been willing to do what you did, if I had known about it and how to do it.

I'm totally grateful I got it and sad for those that haven't... yet. Bottom line, is don't give up, turn every stone. The sad thing is some people are too sick to keep fighting for it, run out of options, and need really good advocacy. Cancer patients and others have to deal with this too. I have a dream... I see a future world where these meds will be accessible for all! Thank you Mike!

Coach Mike · « **Reply #38 on:** November 05, 2015, 06:38:08 am »

I am 62. I have had this disease for more than half my life. My diagnosis came less than 2 years ago, due to extremely high liver enzyme levels found during my annual physical. So I didn't know why I had been tired, so very tired, for years-until Sovaldi came out. I would have done the interferon in a heartbeat, but, luckily , that was really never an option for me.
Naive me got my prescription for off-label S&O. BOOM! Denied. Appealed.Denied. A few months later, the same with Harvoni-12weeks. New doctor, new prescription for 8 weeks now (amazing what no alcohol for 18 months can do for your liver) -No Deal. That was in May and any day now expect to get my final denial from the "external review" committee-6 months after my prescription was written.
I played the game by the rules.
You can't win this game if you do that.
You lose-you can die a needless death.
Like a true version of the "Hunger Games".
This is the "Sickness Games".
Better yet, the "Greed Games".
Mg

Else · « **Reply #39 on:** November 05, 2015, 11:42:29 am »

Hey Coach,

I was right behind you but after 3 denials, the independent review by National Medical Reviews overturned my insurer's denials of service.

For anyone who's reading this and is still getting denied - here's something worth noting. Technically speaking, I'd already had an "Independent Review". By that I mean my insurance company had an in-house, so-called independent GI doctor who reviewed my case.

He may or may not have been an independent contractor but he sure as heck was on my insurance company's payroll. Why am I so sure? Because when I went to do my external review I asked my insurance company to send me a copy of everything they had or ever received regarding my case. All of it: from doctor's office, from specialty pharmacy - anything and everything. And to their credit, boy did they!!! The package was an inch thick.

A few things were note-worthy. One: supporting documentation of extrahepatic manifestations of long-term HCV infection from both an oral surgeon and a rheumatologist were NOT there. Despite this info being faxed repeatedly to my doctor's office, despite me hand-carrying copies into their office (and treated somewhat like a nutbag for doing so), and despite repeated assurances from a nurse that this info had been included in both my prior authorization request and my first appeal. It had not.

Two: an, in hindsight, hilarious exchange of inter-office emails between the so-called "independent GI doctor" and the benefits manager of my policy. The doctor must have been having a bad day.

"Is she covered or not? Please state this clearly". Response: "according to our policy guidelines, no." The good doctor then went on to write a formal denial citing "lack of medical necessity." How independent is that?!? Basically, "tell me what to do here!!!" What a joke and I'm still surprised that correspondence was included in my file request.

I bring these two things up for a reason. Never assume anything that has been done on your behalf has actually been done. Trust but verify! That missing supporting documentation made ALL the difference.

Also, just because you received a denial letter using the word "independent reviewer" doesn't mean you actually received one. The Affordable Care Act guarantees you the right to an appeal to a third-party independent review organization.

Quote

Right to an independent review. Often, insurers and their policyholders can resolve disputes during the internal appeals process with their insurer. If you can’t work it out through the internal appeals process, you now have the right to take your appeal to an independent third-party for review of the insurer’s decision. This is called “external review.” This way, the insurance company no longer gets the final say regarding your benefits, and patients and doctors get a greater measure of control over health care.

Don't be bamboozled by your insurance company's use of the phrase "independent reviewer". If it's not a third-party, it isn't independent.

It's confusing. It's confusing by design.

All that being said, the route you've taken by getting medication from abroad is really admirable. You didn't do the one thing that the billion dollar psychopaths are counting on. You didn't wait. Nobody should. If a doctor tells you that, find another doctor. DON'T WAIT. GET TREATMENT. GET CURED.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #40 on:** November 05, 2015, 12:00:41 pm »

Thanks Else,
My independent review is, in fact, being handled by a federally certified reviewer. I don't trust my insurance company at all anymore, so verified. I would also like to thank Brandon Bietry at the Patient Advocate Foundation for their tireless efforts in my behalf.
I am keeping my fingers crossed and taking my Mesochem APIs.
Two weeks today. Ten to go!
Mike

Else · « **Reply #41 on:** November 05, 2015, 12:22:04 pm »

Hi Mike - my post was more for any new person who might open your thread. It has a compelling title. I don't doubt you exhausted every avenue. And now you're in the vanguard of opening a new one.

Big Pharma (Gilead, specifically) refers to what you're doing as "the grey market". And they acknowledge it's difficult to control. Good. What you're doing makes it less grey. Turn the floodlights on!

They will say the tight controls are in place to "keep people safe". Riiiiiiight. Because there's nothing safer than withholding medication from people that are gravely ill.

When I want to find out what's the latest and greatest in DAA's, I look to financial periodicals. Not medical journals. Not the CDC. Not even the FDA. The most current is always the international financial publications. Screw those guys.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #42 on:** November 05, 2015, 12:23:41 pm »

And the horses they rode in on........

Philadelphia · « **Reply #43 on:** November 05, 2015, 04:04:03 pm »

Hey! Take all the potshots you like at the insurance companies but for the love of God leave their horses alone! You don't want PETA getting all up in your business.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #44 on:** November 05, 2015, 04:12:18 pm »

OK!!!! Sorry friends of those fair beasts!!
I redirect my ill-concealed rage toward the riders only. Their horses probably suffer enough simply having such greedy, selfish owners.

mg

Coach Mike · « **Reply #45 on:** November 05, 2015, 06:09:28 pm »

Hi again,
My truly GREAT advocate through my recent appeals drama. He is good, VERY good at what he does.

Brendan Bietry
Case Manager, Clinical Team
Patient Advocate Foundation
P.O. Box 635158
San Diego, CA 92163
(800) 532-5274 ext. 2110
(757) 528-4790 efax
brendan.bietry@patientadvocate.org
www.patientadvocate.org

Mike

lporterrn · « **Reply #46 on:** November 05, 2015, 07:46:58 pm »

Laublair and others in the US - things are about to change in our favor. This just posted and basically it is a game changer.http://www.medicaid.gov/Medicaid-CHIP-Program-Information/By-Topics/Benefits/Prescription-Drugs/HCV-Communication.html Insurance companies will have to follow suit.

Now we have to hope our brothers and sisters in the world get help ASAP.

Bree · « **Reply #47 on:** November 06, 2015, 12:01:51 am »

Quote from: lporterrn on November 05, 2015, 07:46:58 pm

Laublair and others in the US - things are about to change in our favor. This just posted and basically it is a game changer.http://www.medicaid.gov/Medicaid-CHIP-Program-Information/By-Topics/Benefits/Prescription-Drugs/HCV-Communication.html Insurance companies will have to follow suit.

Now we have to hope our brothers and sisters in the world get help ASAP.

Thank you Lucinda. A definite step in the right direction!

Else · « **Reply #48 on:** November 06, 2015, 01:41:24 am »

That is a succinct letter. Laughing at the "if not, why not?"

Good lord, finally!

Coach Mike · « **Reply #49 on:** November 06, 2015, 04:52:44 am »

Yes finally!!
Now, how long will they take to formulate company policies and means of compliance? Then the PBMs can swing into action and start negotiations with the manufacturers and health insurance providers. Then the health insurance companies can cuss and discuss their formularies. Then, just maybe, then some people who really need medicine can have affordable access.
I, personally, am not holding my breath, but this is a step in the right direction.
The government is the only entity powerful enough to fight these greedy extortionists.
Mike

jag2455 · « **Reply #50 on:** November 06, 2015, 10:24:34 am »

I was denied Harvoni by Express Scripts twice and self-funded using the Harvoni Co-Pay coupon for $23,325; remaining balance is $71,500. Due to the extent of my liver disease and recent FDA warnings, I chose Harvoni over Veikira Pak!

If you are willing to travel out of the country for generic Harvoni you can be treated for $1500 plus airfare and 3 day hotel stay in Australia. Connect with Greg and he will email info and if you Google him you will find a wealth of information including a video of his mission to supply affordable treatment for all.

http://blogs.hepmag.com/gregjefferys/

Coach Mike · « **Reply #51 on:** November 06, 2015, 11:06:14 am »

Or just order it from Mesochem. It will be at your door in 4 days.
84 days worth of sof & led: $1916.00
Money transfer: $60.00
15 days into tx: Priceless
CM

jag2455 · « **Reply #52 on:** November 06, 2015, 11:27:39 am »

@Coach Mike
Are you in US? Will you Dr. treat you if you take generic from India? That was my dilemma !

Coach Mike · « **Reply #53 on:** November 06, 2015, 12:26:38 pm »

Yes,
Both my local GP and my GI (about 200 miles away) said they didn't care where I got my treatment, as long as it was effective. The GI prescribed treatment three different times for me and my insurance denied all of them saying I had to score F3 or F4. Both my docs said their goal was to prevent that from happening (I am F1)
I saw the GI and had my pretreatment tests and my GP will order the 4 and 8 week tests and send them to her. She will then see me 12 weeks after the tx for my "big test".
I am very lucky to have good doctors.
They simply want me to be rid of this crap.
All doctors should use them as models.
Mike

Else · « **Reply #54 on:** November 06, 2015, 12:32:34 pm »

Your doctors are role models for sure, Coach!!! That put a big ol' smile on my face this morning.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #55 on:** November 14, 2015, 04:35:49 pm »

From Greg Jeffreys' 11/14 post on his website:

I can supply you with a list of doctors who will prescribe Hep C meds for you and you can make an appointment with one of these doctors, fly to Australia with your most recent test results, see the doctor, get the prescription buy the meds begin treatment (swallow a tablet) and fly home where your own doctor can monitor your treatment.
Ideally you should also bring a letter from your doctor explaining your situation. Even a prescription if you can get one. This makes it all the easier for the Australian doctor.

If you are short of time this process should take less than one week. If you have spare time then stay a couple of weeks and enjoy the natural beauty of Australia.
If you are really pressed for time then you can speed this process up to a 3 night stay by doing it this way:
1. Make an online appointment with GP2U, an Australian online medical consultancy.
2. Meet the doctor online, with reports etc and explain the situation.
3. Get the prescription sent to you by email. (total cost AUD$100)
4. Send an email explaining your situation and attach a scan of the prescription to Sydney Compounding Chemist order@compoundingchemist.com
5. Pay for the meds before you leave your country so they are made up and waiting for you when you arrive.
6. Fly to Australia.
7. Get the meds delivered to where you are staying.
8. Start treatment
9. Fly home.

If you need any more information of this option then just email me at gregjefferys@outlook.com

SVR 12 is within easy reach. Get yourself healthy and well... LIVE LIFE

Coach Mike · « **Reply #56 on:** November 22, 2015, 05:54:38 am »

Chinese Generic Sofosbuvir & Ledipasvir
4 week test results:
ALT- 21 (never this low in 30 years)
AST- 16
V/L- undetected (pre tx= 1.6 million)

I paid $1916.00 for 12 weeks of tx. It was here 4 days later.

Customs was not an issue.

Check out the fixhepc website

It's real. It works. Its affordable.

Coach Mike

Else · « **Reply #57 on:** November 22, 2015, 11:17:34 am »

Mike, I am thrilled for you!!! This was a brave and ultimately very smart thing that you did! Especially in matters of health care, we're encouraged to be so passive. I'm so glad you didn't buy into the lie. You did it!!!

Devil · « **Reply #58 on:** November 23, 2015, 01:36:25 am »

Quote from: laublair on October 25, 2015, 10:02:31 pm

I feel stupid now for going to Australia.

Thems fighting words...LOL....
Everyone should come visit the lucky country at least once....It really is the best country on the planet....(yes I'm bias)...lol

Dr Freeman is in Sydney but they have an office in Hobart which would be much cheaper to stay and much nicer city to visit.

Dr Paul Dudgeon is in the Hobart office....It's in Battery point....Bout a minute from the CBD....
https://gp2u.com.au/now/appointments

Coach Mike · « **Reply #59 on:** November 23, 2015, 05:09:07 am »

Oh, I plan on going to Hobart.
There is a doctor there.
I owe him a beer.
And a life.
CM

Coach Mike · « **Reply #60 on:** December 06, 2015, 07:24:00 am »

For those interested, a very informative news report:

https://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunrise/video/watch/30286645/australias-own-dallas-buyers-club-initiative/#page1

Coach Mike

Bree · « **Reply #61 on:** December 06, 2015, 12:57:42 pm »

Thanks for that CoachMike. I think I missed something....Did you get approved for Harvoni in the States or did you get it through your resources?

Coach Mike · « **Reply #62 on:** December 06, 2015, 01:26:33 pm »

Both,
I got 12 weeks if generic harvoni, then, 3 weeks into treatment-after18 months of appeals and 3 prescriptions-The external review forced my insurance to cover my Harvoni. So, I finished week four on the generics, got tested, then started my 8 weeks of the brand name meds. Anyway, the generics are geniune. I was undetected at 4 weeks and my enzymes were the lowest they have ever been. (see below)
The Australian connection is really worth looking in to. I can't say more or I will be banned from this forum. I have been warned.
Coach Mike

Else · « **Reply #63 on:** December 06, 2015, 01:45:23 pm »

Good on ya for taking control of your own health care. Blood work doesn't lie! I'm glad your appeal finally went thru as well. You're part of a crowd that's forcing the door open.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #64 on:** December 06, 2015, 01:57:29 pm »

Thank you!
I am very happy for you as well!
Virus free holidays for the first time in a long, long time.
Mike

lporterrn · « **Reply #65 on:** December 06, 2015, 02:07:56 pm »

Hi Mike - Quick clarification - I don't think the issue is that you are talking about the Australian connection or generics. Hep is concerned about the # of drug sellers who are trying to see drugs to members, so personal solicitations and offers of help through personal messages is not allowed. Hep can't vouch for the validity of anyone's intentions, and has had a long-standing policy of avoiding anything that looks like potential solicitation.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #66 on:** December 06, 2015, 02:40:06 pm »

Thank you for the clarification Lucinda,
I will just say here what I was going say in my previous "solicitation".

If you are a U.S. veteran who has been denied treatment by the VA for HCV, you might wish to check out the fixHepC website. There is a good chance you can get your treatment donated. I am not selling anything. FixHepC is not selling anything. They are actively helping people RIGHT NOW to access tested, doctor prescribed, legal medication. They want to make a statement to the U.S. Government: "If you won't provide access to treatment for your veterans, let us see what we can do.
No guarantees. Just let us see if we can help them."
That is all I wished to convey.
Coach Mike

lporterrn · « **Reply #67 on:** December 06, 2015, 03:06:36 pm »

Adding my 2-cents. Because of the recent Medicaid/Medicare letters and the bipartisan Senate committee report about Gilead's pricing structure, many of the state programs and veterans services are instituting changes. For instance, 2 states have changed their programs effective Jan. 1.

Despite what we read, the majority are getting hep C treatment from their insurance plans or from patient assistance programs. Keep challenging those denials of treatment and don't accept a no and don't let them wear you down. Here is a link to get help with the process: http://www.hepmag.com/articles/2512_20506.shtml

Bree · « **Reply #68 on:** December 06, 2015, 03:17:03 pm »

Lucinda, can you please tell me where is a link to the bipartisan Senate committee report about Gilead's pricing structure? I forward these kinds of things to a local attorney who deals with health insurance appeals. He has at least one pending for Harvoni. He has never met more resistance (denials) on appeals, even ones with medical treatments way more costly, until Harvoni.... interesting enough.

He was helping me pro bono until I got assistance through Support Path before right they changed their policy. Thanks!

Coach Mike · « **Reply #69 on:** December 06, 2015, 03:40:28 pm »

Lucinda,
I just want to make it clear: my health insurance is through the state. Every state employee, public school teacher and their families, when they choose, are covered under this plan. I was the first HCV patient to be approved for treatment coverage who wasn't on the transplant list. To the best of my knowledge, I am the only one. I fought them for 18 months to get it out of their hands and into the external review, where treatment was found to be a medical necessity. A year and a half of hell. Hours and hours of letters and emails written, multiple doctor's appointments with multiple doctors in multiple cities. A biopsy, two endoscopies, days of missed work-all to fight for what was rightfully mine. I never would have been approved without the external review provision of the Affordable Care Act. The Republicans in Congress are doing everything in their power to defund this legislation. What if they succeed? This waiting and waiting is outrageous. Things may be happening, but they are not happening where I live.
I want to control my life and health.
So I took control. Other should too.
Coach Mike

Else · « **Reply #70 on:** December 06, 2015, 04:01:30 pm »

Quote from: lporterrn on December 06, 2015, 03:06:36 pm

Keep challenging those denials of treatment and don't accept a no and don't let them wear you down.

This!!! Appeal, appeal and appeal again. This is key. It will often take it going to an external reviewer for the denials to be overturned.

Your doctor may tell you to wait. Don't. I can say with certainty that as of October 14th, there are doctors (hepatologists and their staff) that are telling patients that Harvoni is unobtainable. This is not true! The truth is that Harvoni is unobtainable with the amount of effort they are willing to put forth. Unfortunately, the "we don't get paid for grappling with your insurance company" is a mindset that many doctors have made peace with - despite the fact that it in their patient's best interest to get treated asap.

Doctors are entitled to crafting their own business model for their practice. But, they need to be more straightforward when they hand out treatment advice. "We won't" is NOT the same as "you can't" and shouldn't be presented as such.

lporterrn · « **Reply #71 on:** December 06, 2015, 06:32:25 pm »

Bree - here is the link and there you will also find a link to a video of a press conference http://www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/ranking/release/?id=3f693c73-0fc2-4a4c-ba92-562723ba5255

Mike - sadly, some states are like this, and then there are the insurance companies who negotiated with Express scripts and don't offer Harvoni.

But, Else said it beautifully. It is sad to me to hear patients who don't even try because they don't know where to turn after they heard no (or quit because they heard they couldn't get it and didn't even try.) What I love about this forum is the way people hold each other up while they are going through the process of getting the meds, and then going through treatment.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #72 on:** December 06, 2015, 06:54:01 pm »

Yes Lucinda,
It is sad my state and many others are so difficult concerning treatmegnt coverage, but that begs the question: "What are people in those states supposed to do?" The specialty pharmacy rep that handles my insurer's presriptions couldn't believe I prevailed. I mean she was amazed. I was granted my treatment based on my EHMs. It is my understanding that my insurer plans to deal with that little loophole in their next board meeting. It is also sad that many state employees just don't have the ability to take the fight to the insurance company. So, these people need options, not just support while they wait-the world waits-for Gilead and the others to be forced to lower their prices. Food, water and medicine, you can't live without them. What happened to us since Jonas Salk refused to patent his polio vaccine?
"You can't patent the sun."
I imagine Gilead would try.
Coach Mike

lporterrn · « **Reply #73 on:** December 06, 2015, 07:14:00 pm »

Mike, you asked, "What are people in those states supposed to do?" Assuming this isn't a rhetorical question, we fight. We fight for ourselves, and for each other. Do you know how much change I've seen over the years because advocates spoke up? Lots. If you want specifics, my blog has them. Barely a week goes by where I am not writing an op ed or calling someone in Congress or whatever. Can you imagine what would happen if we all raised a fuss rather than just the same few people? I had dinner with an advocate I've known for 15 years. He told me that his congressman said that he'd like take action if someone other than this guy called. He said, "Quite frankly Bruce, you are the only one I hear from."

As for individuals needing help to get med, I've already provided a link of resources that people can use.

This is a good segue - since open enrollment is now, people thinking about treatment should check their plans to see if the drugs are covered. If not, they may be able to find another plan. Contact the Hep C Careline www.hepatitisc.pafcareline.org for help with that.

Bree · « **Reply #74 on:** December 06, 2015, 07:40:01 pm »

Very important dialogue happening here. Thank you. I'll spare my personal story at this time ... it's because I fought, with extreme persistence, no doubt about it. I refused to take no for an answer. Still, I am hesitant to take credit, as I know I am one of the lucky ones and am very fortunate indeed. I have told the attorney that once I am officially cured, as that is where my energy needs to be at the moment, if there is anything I can do at our state level, I'm there.

I appreciate the information and advocacy on this forum and especially on this thread! I find that I am well informed because of this website and forum!!! My deepest appreciation and gratitude to everyone here! Bree

Coach Mike · « **Reply #75 on:** December 06, 2015, 08:50:10 pm »

Well, one thing is for certain. We all want the same thing: total eradication of this disease. The support and information this forum provides is good beyond all measure. I feel we have reached a turning point in our struggle. The people without the financial means to travel abroad to India, Bangladesh or Austrailia, probably qualify for financial assistance. The cost of treatment is not an issue for the wealthy. The folks in the middle have options now where none existed before: wait and fight for coverage, wait for the government to intervene, borrow the money needed or spend $2000-$10,000 for treatment abroad. At last count, around 50 people a day are flying into Tasmania and the numbers are steadily rising. This "medical exodus" is costing big pharma and saving insurers a lot of money.
The main thing it is saving is lives.
I think market pressure will succeed before the slow wheels of our bureaucracy can act.
Coach Mike

Westy · « **Reply #76 on:** December 06, 2015, 09:12:31 pm »

Quote from: Coach Mike on November 23, 2015, 05:09:07 am

Oh, I plan on going to Hobart.
There is a doctor there.
I owe him a beer.
And a life.
CM

We owe him a Brewery

Coach Mike · « **Reply #77 on:** December 07, 2015, 05:33:59 am »

You are right Westy.
He is a true St. James in my book. Just pure, simple compassion coupled with desire, and ability. I honestly think he and his vision will deal the death blow to the absurd prices being charged for HCV treatment.

On absurd pricing, since we are going to see much more of this as diseases are treated st the genetic level: the government (FDA) needs to work with the company on a reasonable pricing policy before granting approval. Simply put, if its a breakthrough drug, there must be a great need for it. Where there is need, you will find greed lurking. We need to learn from the Greediad experience. Once the horse is out the barn door, its hard to stop. You need to put a halter on that beast before you open the door.
Coach Mike

Westy · « **Reply #78 on:** December 07, 2015, 06:16:21 am »

St James, absolutely Coach Mike. They are now saving lives treating people who are too sick to qualify for treatment ironic isn't it ?

Coach Mike · « **Reply #79 on:** December 07, 2015, 06:46:46 am »

Yes,
There doesn't have to be a "Purgatory" period between diagnosis and treatment anymore. All that needs to happen now is an executive order directing the FDA to come up with a list of approved foreign HCV medications that can be shipped into the U.S. and that will do it. Gilead gave up its rights to complain with its false claims and exhoirbitant pricing.
Coach Mike

Philadelphia · « **Reply #80 on:** December 07, 2015, 07:42:16 am »

"Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has not the health of the daughter of my people been restored?"
Jeremiah 8:22

Westy · « **Reply #81 on:** December 07, 2015, 08:23:54 am »

Quote from: Coach Mike on December 07, 2015, 06:46:46 am

Yes,
There doesn't have to be a "Purgatory" period between diagnosis and treatment anymore. A
Coach Mike

Especially when there is still 154,999,999 hep c sufferers left to treat in the world.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #82 on:** December 07, 2015, 08:35:48 am »

Hi Westy,
What we need is swift executive action directing the FDA to allow effective, tested generic medications into the country when the available name brand drugs are unaffordable. Gilead has set such a ridiculously high price that they would have to give a 98% discount before they could compete in an open market. Obama is a lame duck. Time for him to act.
Coach Mike

Coach Mike · « **Reply #83 on:** December 29, 2015, 09:28:20 pm »

A very informative article:

http://hepatitiscnewdrugs.blogspot.com/2015/12/hep-c-patient-goes-offshore-for-cure.html?m=1

Coach Mike

OpenSource · « **Reply #84 on:** December 29, 2015, 09:44:16 pm »

!!!!BEFORE YOU BUY THAT PLANE TICKET!!!!

A lot of countries ALLOW you to import personal medication. In the USA, you can import up to a 3-months' supply at a time*. Here is a map created by the FixHepC people showing countries that allow/don't allow personal importation (scroll down): http://fixhepc.com/home/redemption-etrials.html If you can't see the map, I would be happy to locate your country and let you know if it's possible to import or not.

So far they haven't logged any problems. You can keep up to date or ask questions in their forums: http://fixhepc.com/forum/index.html

*I would imagine that if you needed more, you could simply import a second time, giving yourself plenty of time if there are any delays.

malou · « **Reply #85 on:** December 29, 2015, 10:59:51 pm »

I was able to import three months of Twinvir from Bangladesh for $1440 plus $75 for the transfer fee. It is from the lab, Incepta. It is their form of Harvoni, identical in formula. If anyone wants particular info, pm me. Took four days.

lporterrn · « **Reply #86 on:** December 29, 2015, 11:15:49 pm »

Keep us posted and good luck!

Westy · « **Reply #87 on:** December 30, 2015, 01:31:37 am »

It seems that the generics forced the drug companies hand a bit with the good deal they gave Australia. $1b over 5 years and treat as many as people as they can with no cap.

cheers

Coach Mike · « **Reply #88 on:** December 30, 2015, 08:03:11 am »

The generic treatments are legitimate if you buy them from a trusted, proven, well-vetted source. I am not aware of any Customs issues. With certain suppliers various protocols must be used to protect them from legal ussues on their end.
Be informed before you buy anything.
All the information you need can be found on the fixhepc website.
Ask your questions and get answers from people who know them.
Coach Mike

malou · « **Reply #89 on:** December 31, 2015, 05:24:40 pm »

The Twinvir I purchased is in the factory labeled box, produced November of 2015. The box is sealed. The plastic bottle is also sealed, as it would be in the US. I just showed it to my PCP who is glad I have obtained it, and said he would do the same if he had to and has no trouble monitoring and ordering my labs.

I feel that it is equal to the Harvoni produced by Gilead and they are charging a fraction of the cost of Harvoni. It was tested in Australia by Dr. Freeman's group and declared 99.9 percent pure.

I will continue to fight Express Scripts and raise hell so that maybe it will be easier for someone else who comes along after me. I pay for that insurance and what big Pharma is doing to all of us is not right. Patients have the right to get the medication their provider prescribes, not the 'next best' and I will offer this story to PBS.

BTW, Happy HepFree New Year to all of us!

Westy · « **Reply #90 on:** December 31, 2015, 06:43:56 pm »

The dam wall will burst soon !!!

malou · « **Reply #91 on:** December 31, 2015, 06:45:48 pm »

I sure hope so, I am thinking this is like taking down the Berlin Wall! Brick by brick!

Westy · « **Reply #92 on:** December 31, 2015, 06:50:27 pm »

Yep It started in Australia and hopefully the Americans and Europeans will get similar deals shortly.

cheers

Coach Mike · « **Reply #93 on:** December 31, 2015, 07:16:03 pm »

A bunch of miscreant descendants of convicts who don't like being held hostage by corporate bloodsuckers, if you ask me.
But nobody did.....
Don't listen to that man behind the curtain...pay attention to the Wizard.
of Oz..
CM

Westy · « **Reply #94 on:** December 31, 2015, 07:27:44 pm »

We have a short sharp response to them Coach only needs two words, we stole it off Billy Connelly

2b · « **Reply #95 on:** January 01, 2016, 04:48:29 pm »

Just want to say, everything Mike says is true re: the Australian Buyers Club and generics, and people who are Genotype 2 going the appeal route, might still want to consider getting generic daclatasvir, even if you are approved by insurance, because in the US the FDA recommends sovaldi and ribavirin for GT2 and you might well not need to go through the hell of ribavirin if you are not cirrhotic and treatment naive.

I got my generic meds through Dr. Freeman, went to Australia and picked them up, if I were doing it today, I would use the mail as that seems to be working well now in US too. However, I was simultaneously going through the months of appeals and denials, so I was 4 weeks into my generic treatment when appeal came through, but ONLY for sovaldi and ribavirin. I don't need or want ribavirin, I was clear and at 0 undetectable at 4 weeks on my generic sofosbuvir and daclatasvir.

So, bottom line for GT2's even if you are going to mess around for months with your appeal, your insurance company (like mine) if you are successful will point to the FDA guidelines and say, 'you GT2's can only have sovaldi and ribavirin, no daclatsvir for you' and if you don't need ribavirin to clear, why would you subject yourself to that? It's yesterday's medicine, like interferon--probably in a year or two no one will be prescribing it anymore.

Greg Jefferys and Dr. Freeman and the Fixhepc buyer's club have done amazing things to help people get cured despite the greedy Gilead policies.

Coach Mike · « **Reply #96 on:** January 01, 2016, 05:30:57 pm »

So, I hear roughly 250,000 Australians are infected with HCV. If all were treated for the billion dollars mentioned above, that would come out to $4000 a person.
Now we are in the realm of reality from a cost standpoint, but still very expensive.

Someone just notified me Indian Hepcinat is being openly offered for sale in Canada for $3500. Supposedly, the company offerering it will ship to the U.S.
I haven't been able to verify anything.
I am aware of people who have ordered it from India and had it successfully shipped to the U.S. for $1250.

Things are moving very fast.
I think 2016 is the YEAR!
I will have to find a new hobby.

Happy Healthy New Year!
Coach Mike

Coach Mike · « **Reply #97 on:** January 01, 2016, 05:35:26 pm »

Oops!!!
Missed a zero!
$4000 a person.
CM

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