Obstacles to Paying for Cancer Treatment and Resources for Help

Dr. Marta Dahiya treats people who have cancer in the United States and abroad. A radiation oncologist at John Peter Smith Center for Cancer Care in Fort Worth, Texas, she focuses on the types of cancers that impact women and often treats patients in underserved communities. Dr. Marta Dahiya works to ensure that uninsured patients receive treatment and frequently offers free care to people who would not be able to afford it otherwise.

New cancer drugs and treatments are being developed frequently, providing much-needed solutions for cancer patients worldwide. Unfortunately, many of these life-saving drugs cost upwards of $10,000 every month. This can be disastrous for uninsured patients, but even people with insurance often end up paying as much as 40 percent out of pocket.

Cancer patients are more than twice as likely to file for bankruptcy as are other Americans, even when they have insurance. Fortunately, help is available for many people who need assistance paying for their cancer treatments.

Patients from low-income families often qualify for assistance through Supplemental Security Income benefits and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families programs. The American Cancer Society has an extensive directory of support available, including help with housing, airfare, and food costs during treatment. Additionally, many doctors and hospitals provide free or reduced treatment options for people in need.