Financial support for cancer patients: sources of information and organisations

Unfortunately, cancer has touched the lives of almost everyone in the world, whether directly or indirectly. And the numbers continue to grow - the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that there will be about 1.7 million new cases of cancer in 2019 alone.

A cancer diagnosis undoubtedly places tremendous psychological stress on patients and their families, and for many, the financial costs of cancer treatment can be just as burdensome as the diagnosis. With that in mind, we are here to provide you with sources of financial assistance for cancer patients. Here's a brief overview of the common physical, financial and emotional effects of cancer - along with financial resources that can help you get the treatment you need.

The true cost of cancer

• • A 2017 report from the Duke Cancer Institute found that patients spend an average of 11% of a household's income on cancer treatment costs.
  • "AARP" found that the average cost of treatment is $150,000 for a person battling cancer.
  • According to a Milliman report, cancer patients are two and a half times more likely to give up and give in, declaring personal medical bankruptcy.

Prepare for the cost of cancer

In addition to the immediate and direct costs of medical treatment, patients should also focus on the secondary costs and logistics of their treatment. For example, the cost of travel, food, and lodging should be considered if you are being treated in another city. Caitlin Donovan, director of community outreach and public relations at the Patient Advocate Foundation, suggests several ways you can prepare:

Stick as closely as possible to the clinical pathways that are covered by your health insurance

The health insurance system in Bulgaria, as in the United States, is complex and also very specific. For example, it may seem easy to choose a hospital pathway, but what if some of the doctors at that hospital need to operate outside of that pathway? Or what if the hospital sends tests to a private lab?

Caitlin Donovan says, "The biggest costs are those that are outside the clinical pathways, so newly diagnosed patients should try to be treated in the clinical pathways if possible." "Think about how to follow your clinical pathway and how far you have to go to do that and how much it will cost to get there. Transportation is the number one issue patients call us about. The average amount that patients need for transportation is $22 to go to chemotherapy." The situation is similar in this country.

"If you need surgery, there can be a lot of unexpected costs," Donovan says. "Make sure all costs are covered by the clinical pathway, including the anesthesiologist! Check everyone individually. You should have several phone conversations. It's amazing how often people don't know that some of the costs have to be copayed. You have to ask."

Consider the cost of childcare and other extra spending

There's a good chance your childcare costs will increase if your health deteriorates or you're recovering from surgery. Be flexible and see if you can find a friend, neighbour or relative who is willing and able to help as soon as possible. Also, try to consider any other new costs that may arise in the future.

Take into account lost wages from your absence from work

Consider how much time you will need to take off work for treatment and talk to your human resources department or your boss directly about how much you need to work to keep your health insurance coverage. Learn how to protect yourself on the job - have conversations and ask clarifying questions about your non-insurance benefits with your human resources department, including short- or long-term disability.

To illustrate what I'm about to tell you, a 2006 study by the Department of Health at the Commonwealth University of Virginia found that women treated for breast cancer missed an average of 44.5 days of work and men diagnosed with prostate cancer missed an average of 27 days . Overall, cancer patients are likely to miss an additional 22 days of work per year compared to employees not battling cancer.

Take a look at the cost of cancer drugs and the rules for supplying these drugs

It's important to know that there are also multiple rules associated with cancer drugs that can lead to large bills that patients must cover. As an example, some insurance plans require patients to get medications mailed to them from a specialty pharmacy, and then the patient is responsible for bringing the medication to the facility to be treated. If the patient does not carry their own medication and the hospital must provide the medication, the cost of providing that medication can be unrealistically high. It's best to double check with your insurance provider to know exactly what steps you need to take to make sure you don't end up with a large bill after your treatment.

Financial help for cancer patients: worth asking!

Even with private health insurance, government programs, and grants from nonprofit organizations or charitable foundations, many cancer patients still need extra financial help with the cost of treatment. If you're having trouble expressing your financial concerns to your insurer or health care professional, here are some easy ways to broach the subject as you develop your treatment plan:

• • "I'm worried about how much cancer treatment will cost. What financial benefits and treatments can I take advantage of?"
  • "I know it can be expensive. Where can I go to get detailed information about the total cost of treatment?"
  • "Will my health insurance cover this treatment? And if not, how much of the total cost will it cover?"
  • "I am concerned about the cost of this treatment. Are there other treatment options you would recommend that are less expensive?"

If you have questions specific to you about financial assistance programs for cancer patients, talk to your doctor or hospital social worker - the hospital business office should have helpful information and additional information to make it easier. Don't be afraid to ask - you deserve to have access to financial assistance information. Local volunteer organizations can also offer financial assistance.

Government financial help for cancer patients

A number of state programs provide financial assistance to cancer patients. Many state assistance programs are only available to low-income households, and each program has unique eligibility requirements. Check to see if you qualify.

• • National Health Insurance Fund

Financial assistance from pharmaceutical companies

"The Partnership for Prescription Assistance has a list of pharmaceutical programs providing financial assistance for cancer patients. Note that your doctor may prescribe medicines that are eligible for these programmes. Services often vary within pharmaceutical assistance plans, but some may include:

• • Financial assistance with insurance reimbursement
  • Referrals to copayment relief programs (cover a portion of the cost)
  • Assistance with the application process
  • Discount or medication for those who qualify

Financial assistance from nonprofit organizations for cancer patients

With the rising cost of cancer, there are now several non-profit organizations that help cancer patients who are seeking financial assistance. Keep in mind that some organizations can only support patients battling a specific type of cancer, and each organization has unique eligibility requirements.

• • CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation
  • Healthwell Foundation

Fundraising for cancer patients can help cover the cost of treatment

When you're battling cancer, it helps to have strong support from friends and family. If your friends and family are looking for ways to support you, consider a crowdfunding campaign together to raise funds. Start an online fundraiser and ask your friends to donate to help you in your fight for recovery. Fundraising creates friendships and helps families stay close-knit. Your fundraising campaign will also serve as a place where you can post text, photo and video updates to let loved ones know how your treatment is going.

Start a campaign on PavelAndreev.ORG.

Take advantage of financial support to fight cancer when you need it most

There are many organizations that help patients in all aspects of their cancer treatment, from the emotional impact to the financial burden. Don't be afraid to ask for help when it comes to your health. Contact me soon to set up your charity campaign and let me try to help you!