This is part of The Cost of Denial, NBC News’ reporting on insurance in America. If you are dealing with seemingly inappropriate bills or a denial of coverage, care or repairs for health, home or auto, email us at Costofdenial@nbcuni.com.
When the World Trade Center Health Program was created in 2011, Stephen Stolarik was among the first to sign up. As a volunteer firefighter, he was at ground zero two days after the attacks, helping with recovery and cleanup efforts. Over the years, the federal program, which gives free healthcare to Sept. 11 responders and survivors, has covered his care for the post-traumatic stress disorder he developed, linked to his time there.