Although the floundering economy is affecting everyone, if you’re fighting cancer-or caring for someone who is-you may be asking yourself, “How on earth am I going to pay for this?”
According to the American Cancer Society, 20% of people with health insurance can’t afford to have the therapy they need to save their lives. In most cases, the cost of treatment and medicine exceeds the limit on the policy.
A big chunk of the cost is coming from drugs used in treatment. According to a 2006 report by Express Scripts, a pharmacy benefit manager, the average cost of a 30-day prescription for cancer is now a whopping $1,600-and that’s not including drugs given at the doctor’s office, like Avastin.
Pharmaceutical companies blame the high price tag on research and development, but in some cases, it’s all about supply and demand. Take Genentech’s colon cancer medication. According to the New York Times, “The company…plans to charge approximately $100,000 annually for Avastin as a treatment for breast or lung cancer, nearly double the drug’s current cost as a colon cancer treatment.” Why the price hike? Executives at Genentech attribute it to Avastin’s “value as a life-sustaining therapy.” Lack of competition is another likely reason.
As a fighter or caregiver, you’re probably struggling with other, “hidden” costs as well. Parking fees at the hospital, gas for trips back and forth, additional child care, a potential cut in work hours, even legal or financial consulting fees.
Cancer.net has a wonderful resource of links, including financial resources, insurance options, and a list of questions to ask your health-care team. They suggest starting with your doctor, who should be able to refer you to organizations that can help. Other people who may have answers include your employer’s human resources department, patient-advocacy organizations, nurses, and health insurance representatives.
If you don’t have health insurance, try Medicare, Medicaid, and the National Cancer Institute. (Look here for info on Medicare and clinical trials, here for info on Medicaid and cancer.) You may qualify for government grant assistance. Churches and synagogues may be able to help. Don’t forget your local Salvation Army or Lions Club. Many families have found that friends and community members are often willing to pitch in. (Contact your local library for information on how to organize a fund-raiser. For some out-of-the-box ideas, check out these stories.) Kristina Collins, of the Cancer Blog, offers a substantial list of assistance programs.
Also, did you know that medical costs not covered by insurance may be tax deductible? Even things like the cost of meals during lengthy treatments? About.com has a good article with more deductions you may not have thought about.
If you’ve found other organizations willing to assist with the skyrocketing costs of cancer treatments, please share them with us-or any other related stories.
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