The cost of cancer can be significant. According to the National Institutes of Health, costs associated with cancer in the United States amounted to roughly $228.1 billion in 2008. Moreover, roughly 24 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 64 had no health insurance for at least part of the year. Consequently, it is not uncommon for cancer survivors to need help with medical bills.
CancerCare
CancerCare is a national nonprofit organization that provides free professional support services to cancer survivors. In 2008, CancerCare provided help to more than 100,000 people. In addition to providing cancer survivors with financial help, CancerCare offers free counseling services, support groups, education workshops, publications and therapeutic activities. In order to qualify for free services and financial assistance, you must fill out a form at the CancerCare website. The form requires information regarding your income, savings, expenses and health.
Public and Nonprofit Hospitals
Many public and nonprofit hospitals offer free programs to individuals that cannot pay. To find a program like this in your community, call your local hospital and ask to speak with a social worker about "charity care" or "indigent care" programs. You can also contact the National Cancer Institute Cancer Information Service, which can find the program nearest to you.
Clinical Trials
Qualifying cancer survivors can receive free or low-cost treatment by participating in a clinical trial. The National Cancer Institute has a searchable database of more than 8,000 clinical trials currently accepting participants.
Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs
Pharmaceutical assistance programs provide help with prescription drug costs. Many of these programs provide assistance whether you are insured or uninsured. You can find a program by visiting the Partnership for Prescription Assistance website at www.pparx.org.
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