going off to college with ibd
After spending a few weeks getting acclimated to this forum, I finally feel comfortable to ask a question that has been asked to me by multiple 17-18 year olds in the groups I run that are going off to college. (asking for myself as well). Many of them have spent most of their teenage years in hospitals or dealing with being constantly sick. They also have had a parent somewhat guiding them through the steps, helping them get their meds, dealing with insurance and talking to their doctors. Now they have finally graduated and are turning 18, it is time for them to become independent young adults. Of course insurance is still covered until they turn 21 but being independent is still pretty daunting. Questions like how am I supposed to cover med bills? When I go to college, how do I find a doctor? What do I do about stress and assignments? Will my 504 carry me through college? What happens if my insurance stops covering stuff? You get the gist. There are a ton of questions being thrown my way that I am trying to figure out myself. Therefore, I am turning to you all to see if someone can link me to some answers so that I can in turn help my group find some answers. -Leah, on behalf of all the lost young adults going to college. p.s. writing with a migraine so excuse the spelling and punctuation
walking_libarian, I came across your post as a new moderator for this site and I wanted to know how you are doing and how has navigating college with IBD has been? Although I can't answer all the questions you mentioned above I wanted to give you some links to other articles on our site that may help. Regarding the health insurance, while on your parent's plan there is a member's # on the card that can help you find physicians in whatever area you will be living that takes your insurance, can also help with telling you what's covered etc. Once you are on your own and if not working yet there may be government assistance programs you can apply for, which your county state office may be able to help you with applying. Most schools also have guidance counselors that can direct you in the right direction. Just remember you are not alone there are resources. Below are the links I mentioned: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/manage-uc-in-school https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/back-to-college Please stay in touch and let us know how you are doing, Fondly ~Lynne (inflammatoryboweldisease.net team member)
