Unlock Enduring Financial Help on Your Cancer Journey

Insurance

Your loved one may have stress about the potential cost of medical care. In a poll of people with head and neck cancer, half confirmed they had anxiety about their finances.

Let’s first explore the insurance options, which can help reduce some costs associated with cancer care.

Types of Insurance

• Employer Provided Insurance
  In the U.S., employers predominantly provide medical insurance coverage. Although, retaining this type of insurance depends upon employment.
• Medicare
  To qualify for Medicare, the beneficiary (or partner) must have paid into Social Security for 10 years or more. Then, upon reaching the age of 65, the beneficiary may automatically receive this type of insurance. If your loved one is in their mid-60s, look for this option. Sometimes, your loved one can use other ways to enroll in Medicare. If you think your loved one may need Medicare, inquire with the state’s Medicaid program to learn the details about the eligibility requirements.
• Medicaid
  Medicaid is primarily for patients with low incomes or disabilities. If the cancer patient has no insurance, this may be an option to explore.
• High-risk Pools
  Some states provide individual insurance to those who cannot acquire private insurance.

Additional Medical Care Costs

Even if your loved one has insurance, costs associated with treatment will appear. First, there will be direct financial costs. Insurance will have deductibles and require out-of-pocket payment for some medications.

There may also be indirect financial costs, which will include expenses essential to obtaining treatment, such as transportation costs to and from appointments or temporary lodging costs if treatment at a far-away location is selected. Insurance will not pay for indirect financial costs associated with treatment.

All sorts of grants exist that can cover various common costs that follow a cancer patient and their loved ones. For instance, maybe you must visit a medical facility at a distant location where you will require lodging. Perhaps your loved one cannot afford the insurance deductibles. There are many options available to help your loved one pay for some of their expenses.

Help with Prescription Drug Costs

Programs exist that provide prescription medications for free or at a reduced cost, such as the Partnership for Prescription Assistance.

Some patient organizations provide financial assistance for medications, such as CancerCare.

If your loved one needs several medications, this may help reduce financial costs.

Help with Indirect Financial Costs

Some cancer organizations will offer financial assistance for indirect costs, including travel, lodging and living expenses. Some organizations that provide financial assistance include the American Cancer Society and CancerCare.

Help From Individuals & Local Organizations

Though many people feel ashamed to ask friends, family, neighbors or members of their house of worship for financial assistance, it can sometimes make a difference. Many people want to do something to help, and donating a little money to a friend to help offset the costs of a fight with cancer makes them feel good. You may be surprised at the support you receive.

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Conclusion

Cancer treatment is expensive, but you can manage the cost of care in several ways. Patients may be eligible for Medicaid or high-risk pools, and there are also programs that can help with prescription drug costs. Additionally, cancer organizations like the American Cancer Society and CancerCare offer financial assistance for indirect expenses related to cancer treatment. Finally, individuals and local organizations may also be willing to provide financial assistance. Asking for help can be difficult, but there are many resources available to cancer patients and their loved ones. You can find other financial resources listed at Cancer.net.