Programs and Resources to Help with Cancer Related Expenses

Cancer is a costly condition, one that puts patients at significant risk for financial burden, and even bankruptcy. When patients are facing a serious medical threat, they need all of their attention focused on their health, not their finances, yet the unfortunate reality is that many patients’ are caught between the two. However, research has shown that when patients can alleviate some of their financial stress, it benefits both their physical and mental health—and sets them up for a greater chance of success on the path to recovery. That’s why free resources for cancer patients are so vital. There are a number of areas where patients can access both information and financial assistance. Here are a few places that offer free resources for cancer patients: Government Agencies Patients may be eligible for financial-assistance programs through the federal government. Many such initiatives only apply to those from low-income households or over certain ages, but patients of all backgrounds should check eligibility requirements regardless. For instance, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services can provide vital free resources for cancer patients to help them close the financial gap that could make the difference in their health. Cancer Nonprofits One of the primary ways patients access both information about and funding for their care is through nonprofit organizations. The American Cancer Society is a nationally known agency with a range of programs to help patients pay for treatment. It also operates chapters throughout the country that provide local-level resources about everything from free transportation services to financial consultants. Healthcare Agencies Many organizations with a healthcare focus devote a segment of their work to...

Managing the Costs of Cancer Treatment

The list of things cancer patients have to manage can seem endless: doctor’s appointments, childcare, transportation, insurance challenges, and more. Loved ones may offer assistance for some of the workload and hospital programs can also help with some of the stress. One area where patients may struggle looking for assistance is cancer financial help. Finances can be among the most stressful aspect of a cancer diagnosis. From treatment bills to co-pays to medication costs, the costs can quickly add up, and cancer financial help isn’t always something patients can seek from family, friends, or healthcare providers. There are a few steps patients can take to make cancer financial help a reality: Make budgeting a priority: When a cancer diagnosis happens, financial obligations may change dramatically. It’s important to reassess one’s monthly income and expenses. Write out all money that comes in and goes out—estimating treatment or medication costs to the best of your ability—to see where some costs can be cut back or where extra financial support is needed. Seek cancer financial help in the form of loans: Initiatives like Life Credit’s Living Benefits Loan program allows patients in need to draw on their own life insurance policies for quick and easy loans. Patients can be connected with cash in just a few days, and once the loan is repaid, they resume control over their insurance policy and can continue to reap its benefits. Connect with your healthcare provider’s financial consultant: Many hospitals and cancer care centers offer patients a financial consultant to help walk them through their care costs. Consultants can connect patients with funding programs, show them...