These 5 Patient Stories Are a True Testament to High-Quality, Affordable Healthcare
5 stories from Carrum Health members
Healthcare is a deeply personal journey. The decision to undergo surgery—whether for chronic pain, weight loss, or a life-threatening condition—is not always an easy one. In this round-up, we explore five Carrum Health member stories that exemplify the importance of access to high-quality, affordable care and the life-changing potential of the right medical interventions with top-tier providers.
1. From chronic pain to renewed mobility
When Tom, a general manager and executive chef, was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both of his knees, he knew he needed to do something about it, especially since his persistent and worsening knee pain had started impacting his ability to do his job. Tom decided to get knee replacement surgery for both knees and was “shocked to find out that Carrum would cover the cost of these surgeries.” Today, a year after the first surgery, Tom feels great. He’s absolutely thrilled with his Carrum Health experience.
2. A second chance at life
Before Carrum, Luis felt like he was handed a death sentence. “I’m here today because Carrum took really good care of me,” he says.
Diagnosed with stage four kidney failure, Luis was advised to undergo weight-loss surgery to improve his eligibility for a kidney transplant. The financial burden of this surgery seemed insurmountable until he learned that his company provided Carrum as a health benefit. This discovery changed his life, offering him a pathway to the surgery he needed. Luis’ story is a powerful reminder of how access to affordable healthcare can provide hope and a future to those facing seemingly impossible odds.
3. Finding trust and reassurance in her providers
After being diagnosed with coronary artery disease, Gwen came to Carrum for help. Through Carrum, she was able to get heart surgery with a top cardiac surgeon at Cleveland Clinic, one of Carrum’s centers of excellence partners.
Gwen’s experience is a reminder of just how important it is for patients to trust their medical professionals—and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re in capable hands.
“To be able to go [to surgery] with the confidence that I had was a tremendous relief—not just for me but for my family as well,” says Gwen.
4. Transformational gastric sleeve surgery
Shenika struggled with obesity for most of her life. She had reached a point where she no longer felt comfortable in her body.
“I knew I wanted to live a longer, healthier life—for my son and for myself,” she says. The decision to undergo bariatric surgery was a turning point for her, as it allowed her to finally take control of her health and regain her confidence. With the support of Carrum, she was able to smoothly navigate the complex process and procedure.
5. Back to work (pain-free) at the job he loves
Joe’s battle with debilitating back pain had left him considering early retirement. The medication he took to relieve the pain was only a temporary solution, and he was on such high levels of it that it hindered his ability to carry out the responsibilities of his job. After an orthopedic neurosurgeon suggested an incredibly costly and extensive back surgery—which Joe did not want to do—he came to Carrum for a second opinion. A spine specialist in Carrum’s network recommended a much less invasive outpatient procedure. One that, since he was going through Carrum, Joe wouldn’t have to pay for at all. He decided to go through with it. Today, he’s able to walk without pain or a cane, and he no longer needs to take the medication he took for years.
These five stories illustrate the transformative power of high-quality healthcare and the profound impact it can have on the lives of members and their loved ones. We are thrilled we were able to help Tom, Luis, Gwen, Shenika, and Joe—and so many more Carrum members.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
