Financial Assistance for Cancer Patients

Anyone who has ever had to deal with cancer knows the staggering financial burdens the disease imposes on both patients and their families. In many cases, private or corporate health insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost. Financial assistance from private organizations is available. This area of our website is intended to assist you in finding the help you need when you need it the most.

Ask your doctor first
If you or a family member is recommended for cancer treatment, the first thing you should do is discuss any concerns you may have about costs directly with us, including reading through this column. We deal with healthcare costs every day and are a good source of advice. Cancer is tough enough without having to worry about financial ruination during treatment, and we are here to provide information that may help with these issues.

If chemotherapy treatment is recommended for you, including the use of biologic and support pharmaceuticals, a potential patient cost portion/responsibility will likely be calculated by our office staff for you, often in advance of treatment. Following is a list of support organizations, websites, and phone numbers, , all of which may lead to financial assistance to help support the patient financial responsibility for treatment. Often applications will be required. These forms usually have a part for our patients and their families to fill out as well as our office.

Chronic Disease Fund	www.cdfund.org	1-877-968-7233
Healthwell Foundation	www.healthwellfoundation.org	1-800-282-7692
Patient Access Network	www.patientaccessnetwork.org	1-866-316-7263
Patient Advocate Foundation	www.copays.org	1-800-532-5274
Patient Services Incorporated	www.uneedpsi.org	1-800-744-5407
Needymeds.com	www.needymeds.com	Information Only

Many drug manufacturers have their own direct programs as well. Often, by searching the name of the drug, a patient can identify the manufacturer online and find the patient assistance programs specific to their care. The list of manufacturers is very long; however, please contact us for any questions regarding further manufacturer support programs and we will try and assist you with the gathering of information.