Ice_Dragon,
I don’t know if Medicaid is state specific, but if not,I think any ES surgery done in a teaching type hospital would be covered by that insurance. Dr. Hackman is in NC & works at the UNC Hospital & has done ES surgery (many bilateral) for quite a number of our members. I’m not sure about Dr. Annino’s situation, but it is always worth calling an office to explain your situation & inquire about whether they’d take your insurance. Also, have a read through our Patient Self Advocacy info (category on the home page). It will be very helpful as you continue to navigate the medical world.
I am sorry for your situation w/ your father. Is it possible to show him a 3D rendering of your elongated styloids & explain to him that what you’re feeling is the result of these bones “tethering” your hyoid bone i.e. keeping it from moving as it needs to when you swallow. The hyoid also moves when you breathe, cough, burp, sneeze, sing, cry, talk, etc. so in some small way, all of these are impacted for you. We have a guide on our forum for making CT slices into 3D images: Making Your Own 3D Images from CT Scan- 3D Slicer Tutorial. If you have no 3D images you can make some to share w/ your family. You are far from weak for all the years you’ve endured the symptoms you have, & I’m really glad you have finally found the answer for the cause.