Lung cancer research and treatment options are moving forward faster than ever before. In fact, there have been more advancements for lung cancer in the past two years than over the past four decades, resulting in better patient outcomes. These advancements come with a price tag that pose significant challenges for our community, but there are ways to help ease the burden.
A lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary on its own—even before the added weight of financial concerns. The high cost of some lung cancer treatment options can lead to financial toxicity, a side effect of the high costs of cancer care that drives patients to make decisions based on treatment costs rather than what is best for their health. It’s no wonder the #1 request on our HelpLine is for financial assistance.
Knowing where to turn for help can go a long way in easing the financial burden of a lung cancer diagnosis. Here are some resources you can take advantage of right now:
- Contact our HelpLine for free, one-on-one support and help with your financial and health-related questions. Ask about financial assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies to see if there’s one available for your specific treatment.
- Catch up on the recent Lung Cancer Living Room episode, “Financing Your Cancer Care” on Vimeo or YouTube, featuring Clara Lambert, Director of Financial Navigation at TAILORMED.
- Learn about leading financial assistance organizations and programs, including:
- Patient Access Network Foundation for out-of-pocket costs.
- Cancer Care for information, resources, and limited financial assistance including transportation costs and help with co-pays.
- Patient Advocate Foundation for case management and financial aid services.
- Know your insurance and take advantage of free resources.
- If you are a Medicare patient, State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) are available in every state to offer personalized and unbiased counseling and assistance.
- If have insurance through the Affordable Care Act, navigators and counselors are available to help you understand your insurance options and how to maximize coverage. Follow this link, enter your zip code, and filter to “assisters” to get connected.
- If you are working, your Human Resources department can help you understand your employer-sponsored insurance.
- Work with the cancer care center at your hospital. Nurses, social workers, and financial navigators can help you understand cost, payment, and coverage options.
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