Cancer treatment can create a heavy financial burden for families and individuals without insurance. If you find yourself in this difficult situation, be sure to address your financial concerns with a hospital social worker, the social-services office or your doctor's business office. Although applying for financial assistance can feel like an arduous task, it can be beneficial to have relief from the financial implications of cancer treatment without insurance.
Government Programs
Government agencies are often the first place to consider for financial assistance. Medicaid is often one of the first programs considered at social services. This program covers medical expenses and often leaves nothing for the family or individual to pay out of pocket. Other programs, such as aid to the needy and disabled, social security or social security disability, might be able to offset some treatment costs.
Veterans and Cancer Treatment
If the patient was a veteran, seek out cancer-treatment programs that provide veterans and their dependents with access to services for early detection and treatment for cancer.
Indigent Care Programs
Some states offer indigent care programs or financial assistance programs based on the ability to pay. These programs offer health care on a sliding-scale fee. Note, however, that not all states or hospitals offer indigent care.
Hill-Burton
Hill-Burton is a federal program that provides money to hospitals, which in turn provide reduced or free services to those who cannot afford them. Online directories list hospitals and clinics participating in the Hill-Burton program.
Hospital and Physician Assistance Programs
Discuss your finances with the billing department at the hospital and doctor's office, and see if they can reduce the cost or write off the cost of treatment. Larger hospitals and university hospitals often have a budget to support more robust financial-assistance programs. Many hospitals donate care to improve their image within the community, so become familiar with what programs they have available.
Private Foundations
Private foundations often provide programs that offer financial assistance. Cancercare.org, the American Cancer Society, and the Susan G. Komen Foundation provide assistance or offer resources to help those who cannot afford the cost of their medical expenses.
Considerations
There are numerous ways to get financial assistance. By contacting associations with a specific diagnosis, you will increase your chances of finding appropriate funding sources. Even though the cost of cancer treatment has risen, it does not mean you or your loved one should avoid treatment.
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