Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance Resources
The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC) is a consortium of organizations that help patients manage financial challenges that can emerge as a result of a cancer diagnosis.
Watch the CFAC VideoOverview
Patient Advocacy/Support organizations, such as Sarcoma Alliance, offer financial assistance or reimbursement for certain expenses connected to second opinion medical appointments—up to $500 upon meeting eligibility requirements. Advocacy support organizations may offer various programs and services to assist with cancer care expenses. Organizations offer different types of assistance with their own eligibility/regulatory parameters. Additionally, there is no guarantee that funds would always be available. Funds are limited and the amount of funding varies, therefore each should be contacted for specific information.
CFAC Coalition Organizations
- American Cancer Society
- CancerCare
- CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation
- HealthWell Foundation
- Patient Access Network Foundation
- Patient Services Incorporated
- National Organization for Rare Disease
- Sarcoma Alliance (second opinion stipends)
- The Max Foundation
Go to cancerfac.org for more information.
Insurance Options
State Health Insurance Marketplaces
Find plans and possible financial assistance at HealthCare.gov.
Learn moreMedicare
Federal health insurance program for eligible individuals, including those 65+ or receiving SSDI.
Learn moreInsurance Assistance & Live Help
For more direct / LIVE help, call: 888-793-9355
Additional Resources
Patient Guide: Managing the Cost of Cancer Care
Cancer.net patient guide to financial help published by ASCO.
Visit resourceGuide to Paying for Cancer Treatments
The Simple Dollar guide on paying for cancer treatments, personal loans, and HSAs.
Visit resourceCommunicating With Your Health Insurance Company
If you have health insurance, it’s important to learn about the specifics of your policy, including what's covered, deductibles, co-payments, and other out-of-pocket costs. Contact your insurance company to ask if a case manager can be assigned to help coordinate care and benefits.
Insurance Guidance – Reminders
- Read your insurance policy before chemotherapy and clarify coverage.
- Discuss costs with your oncologist and compare treatment options.
- Open, review, and file bills and insurance notices immediately.
- Pay COBRA premiums in full and on time.
- Track expenses and claims by category (submitted, paid).
- Pay by check and keep records with related bills.
- Ask if a case manager can be assigned to help coordinate care.
Appealing Insurance Denials
It is not unusual for claims to be denied. You can appeal your health insurance company’s decision and may be able to get the decision overturned. If your appeal is denied, you still have options including external appeals through independent reviewers.
- Resubmit claims and keep copies of all paperwork.
- Record names, dates, and conversation details with insurers.
- Ask your doctor’s billing office for help with disputes.
- Request supporting studies for treatments or medications.
- Contact a social worker or nurse on your care team for help.
- Consider external appeals and state consumer assistance programs.
Need help? Ask to speak to a nurse navigator, social worker, or financial advocate. You can also contact organizations that help with insurance denials and medical debt, such as CoPatient and the Patient Advocate Foundation.