Financial Assistance for Cancer Patients
The various financial resources for cancer patients can be difficult to understand and navigate. Even with private health insurance, government-funded insurance plans, and nonprofit aid, most cancer patients still need additional financial assistance.
Financial Assistance for Cancer Patients is a Serious Problem
According to a recent study by Duke University, the average cancer patient pays over $8,500 a year in out of pocket expenses not covered by insurance. Aside from the cost of treatment and procedures, additional cancer expenses such as transportation costs, expensive diets, or physical therapy can arise. Worst still, c
ancer expenses can affect the financial well-being of the individual and their family. Studies have shown that bankruptcy rates are nearly twice as high among cancer patients one year after diagnosis than with the general population.
Resources for Cancer Patients
Many people feel unsure about bringing up money while planning for cancer treatments, but cost is a valid concern you should discuss.
Here are some ways to bring up the subject of costs as you develop your treatment plan:
- “I’m worried about how much cancer treatment is going to costs, what resources are available to me?”
- “I know this may be expensive. Where can I get some help to get an idea of the total costs of this treatment?”
- “Will my health insurance pay for this treatment? How much of the treatment will they cover?”
- “I’m concerned about the cost of this treatment. Are their other treatments you would recommend that are less expensive?”
If you have questions about financial assistance programs specific to you, speak with your doctor or hospital social worker. The hospital business office should also have helpful information and additional resources. Local services or volunteer organizations may offer financial assistance, but may have limited resources.
GiveForward is one way to provide financial assistance for cancer patients. By setting up a GiveForward page, friends and family members can rally together and gather funds for a cancer patient. By donating or leaving an encouraging note on the person’s page, family and friends can provided both emotional and financial support.
GiveForward has been a proven resource for cancer patients, helping families raise millions of dollars for cancer expenses. The Black family, for instance, raised $14,000 for cancer expenses after Jake survived Hodgkin’s Lymphoma but found himself in debt even with insurance.
Start your fundraiser today!
Resources For Financial Assistance For Cancer Patients
- Financial Help for Cancer Patients: Find a Program
- Financial Support for Cancer Patients: Why Costs Continue to Rise
- 6 Ways to Find Cancer Financial Help
- 4 Financial Resources for Cancer Patients
- Understanding Types of Monetary Help for Cancer Patients
- 5 Questions to ask when looking for Financial Aid for Cancer Patients