In 2009, there were 1,479,350 new cases of cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. The cost of cancer treatment can be extremely expensive. According to the National Cancer Institute, cancer treatment cost more than $72 billion in 2004. Unfortunately for cancer survivors, many alternative treatments are not covered by insurance. Financial help may, however, be available for these treatments.
Clinical Trials
Many hospitals and universities hold clinical trials of alternative cancer treatments. For qualifying individuals, these clinical trials are generally free or low cost. The National Cancer Institute has a searchable database of over 8,000 clinical trials currently accepting participants. If airfare is a problem, you may be able to arrange a free flight to a clinical trial through a medical transport group, such as the Air Care Alliance.
Visionary Alternatives
Visionary Alternatives, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1998 and based in Boca Raton, Florida. The mission of Visionary Alternatives is to find and fund aggressive alternative health treatments for individuals who are ill.
You can apply for financial help by simply visiting the Web site and filling out a questionnaire. You will also have to supply a copy of your last tax return, insurance information, and a photocopy of a photo ID.
Visionary Alternatives also provides funding for physicians and other health care professionals to research alternative treatments.
Cancer Coalition of America
If you are currently undergoing an alternative treatment that is working, but can no longer afford to continue it, The Cancer Coalition of America may be able to help. The Cancer Coalition of America is a nonprofit organization based in Houston, Texas that provides grants to patients who can no longer afford their treatment. The Web site includes directions on apply for a grant.
Tags: Visionary Alternatives, Cancer Coalition, Cancer Coalition America, Cancer Institute, Coalition America, National Cancer, National Cancer Institute
