How to Pay for Cancer Treatments

A cancer diagnosis may not only cause physical and emotional concerns, but financial as well. Heath insurance may cover certain cancer-related costs. However, even those who have insurance may have co-payments for doctors visits, treatments and medications. Some people also have expenses related to traveling for treatment and lost wages. Although paying for treatment through personal loans, saving accounts and credit cards may be an option for some, it may cause added stress. There are additional ways to help pay for cancer treatments.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine the amount of money you'll need. If you have health insurance, check your policy to determine co-payments and the maximum amount of coverage per year. This may help you determine out-of pocket-expenses you will have related to cancer treatment. Talk with a social worker at the hospital where you'll be receiving treatment. He will be able to provide information on payment plans the hospital may accept, or local financial assistance programs.

• 2

  Apply for Medicaid or Medicare health insurance coverage. If you don't have health insurance, you may be eligible for federal- and state-funded health insurance programs, such as Medicaid or Medicare. You must be at least 65 to apply for Medicare. Applicants must meet income guidelines to be eligible for Medicaid. State guidelines vary. Contact the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services for state guidelines.

• 3

  Contact Cancer Care. It's a national non-profit agency which provides support, including financial assistance, to people undergoing cancer treatment. The organization may be able to provide grants to pay for treatment. There is also a co-payment assistance foundation to help those who have health coverage cover out-of-pocket expenses.

• 4

  Call the Veterans Administration. If you are a veteran who is undergoing cancer treatment or are a dependent of a veteran, you may be able to receive cancer treatments at a VA hospital, even if you are unable to pay.

• 5

  Visit the National Cancer Institute's website for information on financial assistance provided by national cancer organizations. Individual organizations related to a particular type of cancer, may have financial assistance programs. For instance, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is a non-profit agency which provides support, education and financial assistance to patients with those types of cancer.