Who do I call? Where to get help

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

When to call:

• You're thinking about hurting yourself
• Someone you love is talking about suicide
• You're a caregiver and you're at the breaking point
• You're overwhelmed and don't know where else to turn

What happens when you call:

• You talk to a trained counselor immediately
• It's free. It's confidential. It's 24/7.
• They don't judge. They don't call the police unless you're in immediate danger.
• They help you make a plan to stay safe.

National Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

When to call:

• Someone took the wrong medication
• Took too much of a medication
• Mixed medications that shouldn't be mixed
• Child got into medicine cabinet
• You're not sure if something is poisonous

What happens:

• Expert answers immediately
• Tells you if you need to go to ER or if you can manage at home
• Stays on phone until situation is resolved
• Free. 24/7.

911 - When to Actually Call

Call immediately for:

• Chest pain lasting more than 5 minutes
• Difficulty breathing
• Sudden severe headache (worst of your life)
• One side of face drooping, can't raise both arms, slurred speech (stroke)
• Massive bleeding that won't stop
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizure (if first one ever, or lasting more than 5 minutes)
• Suicidal with a plan and means

Don't call for:

• Medication refills
• Questions about symptoms that started days ago
• Test results you're worried about
• Appointments or referrals

When you call 911:

• Stay calm (I know, easier said than done)
• Know your address (have it written down by your phone)
• Know what medications the person takes (keep list by phone)
• Unlock front door if you can
• Turn on outside lights
• Keep pets secured

Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org)

What it is:

The Mayo Clinic is one of the best hospitals in the country. Their website explains medical conditions in language regular people can understand.

How to use it:

1. Go to mayoclinic.org
2. Type your condition in the search box (example: "kidney disease")
3. Click on the article that matches
4. Read the sections: Overview, Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors, Treatment

What's good about it:

• Trustworthy (written by actual doctors, reviewed by specialists)
• Clear (no medical jargon, or they explain it)
• Comprehensive (covers basics to advanced)
• Free (no subscription, no paywall)

What's NOT good about it:

• Can be overwhelming if you're just diagnosed
• Doesn't tell you YOUR specific situation (that's your doctor's job)
• US-focused (may not apply if you're in another country)

Real example:

MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov)

What it is:

Run by the National Library of Medicine (part of the US government). Like Mayo Clinic but more basic - good if Mayo Clinic feels too advanced.

How to use it:

1. Go to medlineplus.gov
2. Type condition or medication name
3. Click "Health Topics" for conditions
4. Click "Drugs & Supplements" for medication info

What's good about it:

• Even simpler language than Mayo Clinic
• Links to other trusted resources
• Available in Spanish
• Videos for people who learn better by watching than reading

What's NOT good about it:

• Sometimes TOO basic (doesn't give enough detail)
• Less comprehensive than Mayo Clinic

When to use which:

• Start with MedlinePlus if you're completely lost
• Move to Mayo Clinic when you're ready for more depth

UpToDate Patient Information (uptodate.com/contents/table-of-contents/patient-education)

What it is:

Doctors use UpToDate to look things up. They have a patient version that's more detailed than Mayo Clinic but still understandable.

How to use it:

1. Go to the link above
2. Browse by category (Heart & Blood Vessels, Kidneys, etc.)
3. Find your topic
4. Note: Some content requires subscription, but patient basics are free

What's good about it:

• VERY thorough
• What doctors actually use to learn about diseases
• Kept extremely current (updated constantly)

What's NOT good about it:

• Can be overwhelming
• Sometimes assumes you know more than you do
• Not all content is free

When to use it:

After you understand the basics (from Mayo Clinic or MedlinePlus) and want to dig deeper before your specialist appointment.

Drugs.com

What it is:

Comprehensive database of every medication, including interactions and side effects.

How to use it:

For drug interactions (CRITICAL):

1. Go to drugs.com/drug_interactions.html
2. Enter ALL your medications (including over-the-counter, vitamins, supplements)
3. Click "Check for Interactions"
4. Read results carefully - pay attention to "major" interactions

For understanding a medication:

1. Go to drugs.com
2. Search medication name
3. Read: "What is [drug]?", "Important information", "Side effects"
4. Print it. Bring it to your doctor if you have questions.

Real example:

What's good:

• Comprehensive
• Checks interactions doctors don't have time to check
• Free
• Updated constantly

What's NOT good:

• Can be scary (lists every possible side effect, even rare ones)
• Doesn't tell you whether to stop your medication (call your doctor for that)

Your Pharmacist (Free Resource You're Not Using)

What they are:

Your pharmacist went to school for 6-8 years. They're experts in medications. And they're standing there, available, every time you pick up a prescription.

How to use them:

Every time you get a new prescription, ask:

1. "What is this medication supposed to do?"
2. "When should I take it?" (morning/night, with food/without)
3. "What are the most common side effects I should watch for?"
4. "Does this interact with my other medications?" (they can check)
5. "What should I do if I miss a dose?"

For medication problems:

• Call your pharmacist BEFORE calling your doctor
• They can often answer questions faster
• They know if there's a cheaper generic version
• They can help with insurance problems
• They can check if there's a better time of day to take it

Why this matters:

Pharmacists catch medication errors doctors make. They're your safety net. Use them.

Real example:

Finding a Good Doctor (When Your Current One Isn't Working)

Signs you need a new doctor:

• They dismiss your concerns repeatedly
• They don't return calls or messages
• They rush you constantly (worse than normal 7 minutes)
• They get angry when you ask questions
• They won't order reasonable tests
• They don't coordinate with your other doctors

How to find a new one:

Step 1: Ask people you trust

• Friends who have similar conditions
• Your pharmacist
• Other doctors (if you trust them, ask who THEY would see)
• Support groups (online or in-person)

Step 2: Check credentials

1. Go to your state medical board website
2. Search: "[Your State] medical board doctor lookup"
3. Enter doctor's name
4. Check: Are they licensed? Any disciplinary actions?

Step 3: Check if they take your insurance

• Call your insurance company
• Or check their website "Find a Doctor"
• Or call the doctor's office directly: "Do you accept [Insurance Name]?"

Step 4: Interview them on first visit

Ask:

• "How do you prefer patients communicate with you between visits?"
• "What's your philosophy on patient involvement in decisions?"
• "How do you handle situations where patients bring research or questions?"
• "Do you coordinate with specialists or am I responsible for that?"

If they get defensive at these questions, that's your answer. Leave.

Getting a Second Opinion (You're Allowed!)

When you need a second opinion:

• Diagnosis is serious (cancer, need for surgery, rare disease)
• Treatment options seem limited ("this is your only choice")
• You don't understand or don't trust the diagnosis
• First doctor is uncertain or seems to be guessing
• Treatment isn't working after reasonable time

How to get a second opinion:

Step 1: Tell your doctor (usually)

"I'd like to get a second opinion before deciding on treatment."

Most good doctors will say: "That's reasonable. Here's a referral."

Bad doctors will get offended. That tells you something important.

Step 2: Get your medical records

You need to bring complete records to the second opinion appointment.

How to request:

• Call medical records department
• Say: "I need a complete copy of my medical records for a second opinion"
• They must give them to you (federal law)
• Usually free or small fee ($25-50)
• Get them on a CD or USB drive, or as PDFs emailed

Step 3: Find the specialist

• Teaching hospitals (university hospitals) often have the best specialists
• Look for doctors who specialize in your specific rare condition
• Check: do they take your insurance, or will you pay out of pocket?

Step 4: At the appointment

• Bring ALL your medical records
• Bring a list of your questions
• Bring someone with you to take notes
• Be honest: "I'm here for a second opinion. First doctor says X. What do you think?"

What if opinions conflict?

• Don't panic (it's actually common)
• Ask each doctor to explain WHY they recommend their approach
• Ask: "What's the risk if we wait 2 weeks while I decide?"
• Consider a third opinion if the stakes are high

Vermont 211 - One Number for Everything

Phone: 2-1-1 (or 1-877-211-1541 from cell phone)

What it is:

It's like a librarian for social services. You call, explain what you need help with, they tell you where to go.

When to call:

• Need help paying bills
• Need food
• Need transportation to medical appointments
• Need help finding housing
• Need mental health services
• Need anything and don't know where to start

How it works:

1. Call 211
2. Explain your situation
3. They search their database
4. They give you names, phone numbers, addresses of organizations that can help
5. They can even call on your behalf if you want

It's free. Available 24/7. Multilingual.

Real example:

Vermont Department of Health (802-863-7200)

What they do:

Public health programs, immunizations, disease information, health screening programs.

Most useful programs:

• Free or low-cost immunizations
• TB testing
• Chronic disease management programs
• Help navigating health insurance
• Emergency preparedness info

When to call:

• Need immunizations but can't afford them
• Questions about public health emergencies (disease outbreaks, etc.)
• Need help understanding Vermont's healthcare programs

Area Agencies on Aging (Different numbers for each county)

What they do:

Help seniors (60+) and their caregivers with just about everything.

Services include:

• Meals on Wheels (delivered meals)
• Transportation to appointments
• Home care coordination
• Medicare counseling (SHIP program - free!)
• Caregiver support groups
• Legal assistance
• Long-term care navigation

How to find your local office:

Call 211 and ask for your Area Agency on Aging, or search online: "Vermont area agency on aging [your county]"

Real example:

Vermont Legal Aid (800-889-2047)

What they do:

Free legal help for low-income Vermonters.

They help with:

• Housing issues
• Government benefits (Medicaid, disability, food stamps)
• Healthcare access
• Domestic violence
• Elder law

When to call:

• Insurance denying coverage you think should be covered
• Hospital sending you to collections
• Nursing home issues
• Medicaid application denied
• Disability claim denied

Income limits apply - call to see if you qualify.

Vermont Blueprint for Health

What it is:

Program that helps coordinate care for people with chronic conditions.

What they do:

• Community health teams work with your doctor
• Help you manage diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure
• Free health coaching
• Help coordinating between specialists
• Home visits if needed

How to access:

Ask your primary care doctor if they participate in Blueprint. If yes, ask to be referred to the community health team.

Real example:

Hospital Charity Care (Every Hospital Has This - They Don't Advertise It)

What it is:

Hospitals are required to provide free or reduced-cost care to people who can't afford to pay. But you have to ASK for it.

How to access:

Step 1: Don't ignore the bill

• Open it
• Look for a number for "Financial Assistance" or "Patient Billing"
• Call them

Step 2: Say this

"I received a bill for $[amount]. I can't afford to pay this. I'd like to apply for financial assistance."

Step 3: They'll send you an application

• Fill it out completely
• Attach proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefits statements)
• Attach proof of expenses (rent, utilities, other medical bills)
• Return it

Step 4: Wait for decision

• They'll approve some reduction (maybe 50%, maybe 100% depending on income)
• If denied, appeal (write a letter explaining your situation)

Real example:

Don't assume you don't qualify. Even people with decent incomes can qualify if they have high medical expenses.

Prescription Assistance Programs

What they are:

Most drug manufacturers have programs that give free or low-cost medications to people who can't afford them.

How to access:

Option 1: NeedyMeds (needymeds.org)

1. Go to website
2. Click "Drug Information"
3. Type your medication name
4. Click on your medication
5. Scroll to "Patient Assistance Programs"
6. Follow application instructions

Option 2: Ask your doctor's office

"I can't afford this medication. Are there patient assistance programs available?"

Many doctors' offices have staff who help with these applications.

Option 3: GoodRx (goodrx.com)

Not a patient assistance program, but a discount card.

1. Go to goodrx.com
2. Type medication name
3. Enter your ZIP code
4. See prices at different pharmacies
5. Show the coupon at pharmacy

Sometimes GoodRx prices are cheaper than your insurance copay!

Real example:

My wife's IVIG infusions cost \$15,000 per treatment. Patient assistance program from the manufacturer: free for 2 years while we fought with insurance.

Medicaid (Vermont Medicaid is called "Green Mountain Care")

What it is:

Government health insurance for people with low income.

Who qualifies:

• Adults with income up to about $20,000/year (single) or $27,000/year (couple)
• Different limits for families with children, pregnant women, people with disabilities
• Limits change - call to check current amounts

What it covers:

• Doctor visits
• Hospital care
• Prescriptions
• Mental health
• Long-term care

How to apply:

1. Go to VermontHealthConnect.gov
2. Click "Apply for Coverage"
3. Create account
4. Fill out application (takes 30-60 minutes)
5. Upload documents they request
6. Wait for decision (usually 45 days, faster if urgent)

OR call: 1-855-899-9600

If you're denied:

Appeal! Many people get denied first time, approved on appeal.

Medicare (For 65+, or Disabled, or Certain Illnesses)

What it is:

Federal health insurance for:

• People 65 or older
• People under 65 with certain disabilities
• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure)
• People with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)

Parts of Medicare:

• Part A: Hospital insurance (usually free if you worked 10+ years)
• Part B: Doctor visits, outpatient (costs about $175/month)
• Part D: Prescriptions (varies by plan, $30-100/month)
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): Alternative that combines A, B, and sometimes D (varies)

How to enroll:

• Go to ssa.gov/medicare three months before you turn 65
• Or call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
• Or go to local Social Security office

CRITICAL: Don't miss your enrollment window or you pay penalties forever!

Medicare counseling (free help):

• SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program)
• Call Vermont 211 and ask for SHIP
• Free counselor helps you understand options and choose plan
• Helps with appeals if Medicare denies coverage

Family Caregiver Alliance (caregiver.org)

What it is:

National organization focused on helping caregivers, not just patients.

What's useful:

• Fact sheets on different conditions
• Tips on caregiving tasks (bathing, feeding, medication management)
• Self-care advice for caregivers
• State-by-state resources
• Online support group

When to use it:

• When you become a caregiver and have no idea what you're doing
• When you're burning out and need validation that it's hard
• When you need specific advice on caregiving tasks

Real talk:

I used their "Taking Care of YOU" section when I was falling apart. It helped me realize I wasn't failing - the job is impossible without support.

AARP Caregiving Resources (aarp.org/caregiving)

Don't need to be a member to use these resources.

What's useful:

• Prepare to Care Guide (comprehensive guide for new caregivers)
• Caregiving basics (legal, financial, healthcare)
• Local resources database
• Support community online

Caregiver Action Network (caregiveraction.org)

What it is:

Largest caregiver support organization in the US.

What's useful:

• Education & training (online classes, free)
• Peer support program (connect with other caregivers)
• Advocacy (fighting for caregiver rights)
• Financial resources guide

Local Support Groups (Find Through 211 or Hospitals)

Why in-person support groups matter:

• Other people who ACTUALLY understand
• Share practical tips (not just emotional support)
• Learn about resources you didn't know existed
• Feel less alone

How to find:

• Call Vermont 211: "I'm looking for caregiver support groups in [your area]"
• Call your local hospital: "Do you have caregiver support groups?"
• Search online: "[Your condition] support group Vermont"

Example groups in Vermont:

• Alzheimer's Association support groups (locations throughout state)
• Cancer caregiver support groups (at cancer centers)
• Stroke caregiver support groups (through hospitals)
• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) family support groups

How to Read Your Insurance Card

Your insurance card has critical information you need to understand:

Front of card:

• Member ID: Your unique insurance number (need this for everything)
• Group Number: Your employer's group (if employer insurance)
• Effective Date: When your coverage started
• PCP (Primary Care Physician): Your main doctor (some plans require you to see them first)

Back of card:

• Customer Service: Call with questions about coverage
• Pharmacy: For prescription questions
• Claims: Where to send bills if provider doesn't bill directly
• Preauthorization/Precert: Call before certain procedures or insurance won't cover

Copay information:

• Office Visit copay: What you pay to see doctor (example: $25)
• Specialist copay: What you pay to see specialist (example: $50)
• ER copay: What you pay for emergency room (example: $250)
• Prescription copay: Different levels (generic/brand name/specialty)

Keep a photo of your card on your phone. Bring card to every appointment.

What Insurance Actually Pays For (The Truth)

Common misconception: "I have insurance, so they'll pay for my treatment."

Reality: Insurance companies look for reasons to deny coverage. Your job is to not give them reasons.

Pre-authorization (Pre-cert):

• Many treatments/tests require approval BEFORE they happen
• If you get the test without approval, insurance won't pay
• YOUR responsibility to check if something needs pre-auth
• Call number on back of card: "Does [procedure/test] require pre-authorization?"

In-network vs. Out-of-network:

• In-network: Doctors/hospitals that have a contract with your insurance (cheaper for you)
• Out-of-network: Everyone else (insurance pays less or nothing)
• Check before every appointment: "Are you in-network with [Insurance Name]?"
• Emergency rooms are usually covered even if out-of-network (but check)

Medical necessity:

• Insurance only pays for things they consider "medically necessary"
• What's medically necessary is sometimes disputed
• Your doctor says you need it? Insurance might say you don't
• Be prepared to fight

How to Fight an Insurance Denial (Step by Step)

Step 1: Don't panic

Most denials can be overturned on appeal. Insurance companies count on you giving up.

Step 2: Understand WHY they denied

Read the denial letter carefully. Common reasons:

• "Not medically necessary" (they don't think you need it)
• "Experimental" (they claim it's not proven)
• "Not covered benefit" (your plan doesn't cover this type of thing)
• "Pre-authorization required" (you or your doctor didn't get approval first)

Step 3: Call your doctor's office

"My insurance denied [X]. Can you help me appeal?"

Good doctor's offices have staff who fight denials all the time. They know what to say.

Step 4: File the appeal

Denial letter will have instructions for appealing. Usually:

• Write a letter explaining why you need the treatment
• Include: Your name, member ID, date of denial, what was denied
• Include doctor's letter supporting medical necessity
• Include medical evidence (journal articles, guidelines showing it's standard care)
• Send certified mail (proof they received it)

Step 5: Keep appealing

Most insurance has multiple levels of appeal:

• Internal appeal (insurance company reviews again)
• External appeal (independent reviewer)
• State insurance commissioner complaint

Each level gives you another chance to win.

Sample appeal letter template:

```

[Date]

[Insurance Company Name]

Appeals Department

[Address from denial letter]

RE: Appeal of Claim Denial

Member: [Your Name]

Member ID: [Your number]

Claim Number: [From denial letter]

Date of Service: [Date]

Dear Appeals Department:

I am writing to appeal your denial of [specific treatment/test]

dated [date of denial].

You denied this claim stating [quote their reason]. I disagree

for the following reasons:

1. My doctor, [Doctor Name], has determined this treatment is

medically necessary because [explain medical reason].

1. [Explain your symptoms/condition and why you need this

treatment].

1. [If applicable] This treatment is considered standard care

for my condition according to [medical society/guidelines].

Enclosed please find:

• Letter from my physician supporting medical necessity
• Medical records documenting my condition
• [Any other supporting documents]

I request that you overturn this denial and approve coverage

for this medically necessary treatment.

If you need additional information, please contact me at

[phone] or [email].

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your signature]

[Your printed name]

```

Real example:

My wife's IVIG infusions were denied three times as "not medically necessary." We appealed three times with letters from her hematologist. Won on third appeal. \$15,000 per treatment, 6 treatments = \$90,000 saved.

Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741)

What it is:

Text-based crisis counseling. Available 24/7. Free.

When to use:

• You're in crisis but can't talk on phone
• You're having panic attack
• You're overwhelmed and need someone to talk to
• You prefer texting to talking

How it works:

1. Text "HOME" to 741741
2. Automated response asks what's wrong
3. Within minutes, you're connected to trained crisis counselor
4. Text back and forth until you're stabilized
5. They help you make a safety plan

Why I'm including this:

When you're a caregiver in crisis at 2am, you can't call anyone. But you can text. I almost used this several times.

NAMI Vermont (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

Phone: 802-876-7949 or 800-639-6480

What they do:

• Support groups for people with mental illness AND their families
• Education classes (free)
• Helpline for crisis or questions
• Advocacy for better mental health care

When to call:

• You or loved one struggling with mental illness
• Need to find mental health services in Vermont
• In crisis and need immediate help
• Need support group for family members

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA)

National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (1-800-662-HELP)

What it is:

24/7 free confidential helpline for substance abuse and mental health issues.

They help with:

• Finding treatment programs
• Support groups
• Community resources
• Crisis counseling

Languages: English and Spanish

Main Platform

Website: [platform-url]

What you can do:

• Upload lab results (free, no signup required for initial analysis)
• Get personal baseline calculations
• See deviation scores and patterns
• Generate appointment prep reports
• Track trends over time (requires free account)

For Medical Professionals

Website: [platform-url]/medical-professionals

Resources:

• Professional community access
• Early adopter program
• Training materials
• Research collaboration opportunities

For Students and Researchers

Website: [platform-url]/researchers

How to access:

• IRB approval process
• Data access guidelines
• Research collaboration
• Student volunteer opportunities

Platform Support

Email: [support-email]

Response time: Usually within 24 hours

When to contact:

• Technical problems with platform
• Questions about how to use features
• Suggestions for improvements
• Bug reports

When you're first diagnosed:

1. Start with Mayo Clinic or MedlinePlus (learn about your condition)
2. Use Drugs.com (check your medications)
3. Find your Area Agency on Aging if 60+ (they help with everything)
4. Call Vermont 211 (they'll connect you to resources you need)

When you're drowning in medical bills:

1. Hospital charity care (apply immediately)
2. Prescription assistance programs (for expensive medications)
3. Vermont Legal Aid (if insurance denying coverage)
4. Medicaid (if low income)

When you're burning out as a caregiver:

1. AARP or Family Caregiver Alliance (education and support)
2. Local support groups (through 211 or hospitals)
3. Area Agency on Aging (respite care, Meals on Wheels)
4. Crisis Text Line or 988 (if at breaking point)

When insurance denies something:

1. Call your doctor's office (they fight denials professionally)
2. File appeal (use template above)
3. Keep appealing through all levels
4. Vermont Legal Aid if you need help

When you need to understand your labs:

1. Try the platform (upload and get analysis)
2. Use Appendix C in this book (explains common tests)
3. Ask your pharmacist (they often explain better than doctors)
4. Bring questions to doctor with specific numbers

You're not alone.

Every resource listed here exists because other people struggled and needed help.

Every phone number is answered by someone who wants to help you.

Every website was created by people who've been where you are.

Don't be too proud to ask for help.

Don't assume you don't qualify for assistance.

Don't give up after one denial or one "no."

The system is complicated on purpose. They count on you giving up.

Don't give up.

Call 211 if you don't know where to start. They'll walk you through it.

Use the platform to understand your health data. It's free.

Take it one resource at a time. One phone call. One application. One step.

You can do this. People do it every day. You're one of them now.

Next: Appendix C - Understanding Your Lab Tests (What they mean in plain English)

Where this came from. Written 10 October 2025 and recovered from the archive on 4 September 2026. It is reproduced here as written, converted from the original rather than retyped, so it cannot quietly drift from its source.

What we do and do not claim about it. These are other people’s services, not ours, and they do not carry our evidence grades — we grade our own pages, not the whole internet. What we can tell you is that somebody here used these and wrote down what each one is bad at as well as what it is good for, which is the part a search engine will never give you.

Phone numbers change. If one of these is wrong or dead, the comment rail in the margin is the fastest way to tell us, and fixing it is a five-minute job.