Cancer is never cheap. But today’s economic and political upheaval threatens to further drive up costs and weaken our public health system. But financial lifelines are out there for you to grab. Don’t overlook local cancer organizations: Many offer help with groceries, utilities and rent, for example, which can help keep you afloat. Below, we’ve rounded up major national resources for people with cancer.
Cancer.org
cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters.html
The American Cancer Society website’s “Financial and Insurance Matters” section offers primers on health insurance, how to manage medical bills and more. Of note: You’ll find a valuable roundup of resources to help with expenses, such as Hope Lodge and Ronald McDonald House, patient aid programs at Blood Cancer United and more.
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
Organized by a coalition of 15 major cancer groups, this database acts as a clearinghouse for your financial needs. Type in your diagnosis (breast cancer, for example), your ZIP code and the type of aid you’re looking for (such as help with co-pays or buying wigs) and a list of relevant organizations is at your fingertips.
CancerCare
cancercare.org/financial_assistance
Along with limited financial aid and co-pay assistance, CancerCare offers emotional and practical help from professional oncology social workers, who can help you find resources. Check out its searchable Helping Hand Online Financial Resources Database.
Cancer Finances
Created by the nonprofits Triage Cancer and The SAMFund, this educational tool kit is organized by clinical trials, disability insurance, employment issues, health insurance appeals and more. It’s like a class on finances.
Family Reach
This group helps people meet basic needs during cancer. You’ll find financial resources, tip sheets, clinical trial access and financial assistance.
HealthWell Foundation
Out-of-pocket expenses can be overwhelming. At HealthWell, underinsured patients with specific chronic and life-altering diseases can apply for grants. Funding is organized according to illness, including many types of cancer; look for your cancer to see whether it’s covered.
Medicaid Payments to Caregivers
If you’re taking care of a frail or disabled senior family member, you may be compensated by Medicaid for your efforts. Visit this website to learn about Medicaid’s various programs that offer financial payments.
PhRMA’s Medicine Assistance Tool (MAT)
NeedyMeds
Search these two databases to find out whether pharmaceutical companies offer patient financial assistance programs for your medications.
The SAMFund
The fund helps young adult cancer survivors avoid medical debt by offering direct financial assistance as well as online support, webinars and education.
Triage Cancer
Focused on offering practical and legal advice, Triage Cancer provides guidance on understanding and managing your bills, coverage and more so you don’t overpay and get stuck with unauthorized charges. Podcasts, blogs and educational videos make learning easy.
Comments
Comments