What does it take to get diagnosed for celiac disease in the United States? Thousands and thousands of dollars, years of being told that you’re a hypochondriac, and persistence. Sweet, sweet persistence.

Don’t get me wrong, I think some of the acute healthcare available in the United States is pretty impressive. But every time I think of being diagnosed with CD, I thank my lucky stars that I was in Canada, where I didn’t pay anything for my blood tests, my biopsy, my dietitian, or my meetings with the osteoporosis specialists. 

It’s still very important to remember that having CD is an expensive pastime - I pay hundreds of dollars in food and nutrition supplements every month that I otherwise would not have to buy. But thank goodness I didn’t have to pay $4,000 for blood work. What a nightmare.

This girl, Orcasisle, has made a great video on CNN’s iReport (apple plug, anyone?) about “the shortcomings of the U.S. health care system during [her] 6 year journey getting diagnosed with Celiac Disease highlighting the need for health care reform.”

I thought it was a great (even better near the end) bit of independent journalism. Congratulations on your diagnosis, Orcasisle, and on getting through the healthcare system despite all the drawbacks you encountered.