Tips for Finding Assistance

Cancer can be a tremendous financial burden, on a patient as well as on a family. Besides hospital bills, cancer treatment includes many expenses that insurance often doesn't cover, such as transportation or childcare. If the person with cancer or caregiver has to stop working, the financial crisis becomes greater. Some relief is available, but it will take effort to piece together what is available.

Here are some general tips for finding assistance:

Understand what assistance you are entitled to under the law (these programs are called entitlements). A hospital or community social worker can direct you to the proper governmental agency.
Most entitlement programs take time to process your enrollment forms. The sooner you request information and send in your application, the sooner you will receive assistance.
Take time to review your health insurance policy as well as any other insurance policies you have to better understand your coverage. Ask your insurance company if they can assign you a case manager to help you and answer your questions.
If you need help with hospital expenses, ask to speak to a financial counselor in the business office of the hospital. They can help you develop a monthly payment plan.
If you expect to run out of money, or have already, and cannot meet your daily living expenses like rent and food, talk directly to your creditors. Many utility and mortgage companies, for example, will work out a payment plan with you before a crisis develops.
Don't forget about the power of using your local elected officials. They often have resources and connections that can be useful. If you are having difficulty with Medicaid, calling the office of your state representative might help; for Medicare problems, your federal representative or senator's office may have information and assistance. To find out who your elected officials are and how to contact them, visit Project Vote Smart.

Download our fact sheet, Financial Help for People with Cancer PDF (also available in Spanish, Ayuda Económica Para las Personas con Cáncer PDF ), which outlines additional resources and tips for finding help. CancerCare social workers can help you understand the information and navigate the system.