Skip to content
Mesothelioma.net
phone iconCall1-800-692-8608 chat icon Chat 24/7 Live Chat
Menu
  • Malignant Mesothelioma
    • About Mesothelioma
      • How to Survive Mesothelioma
      • 100 Questions & Answers about Mesothelioma (Free Book)
      • Symptoms
      • Diagnosis
      • Prognosis
      • Life Expectancy
    • Types
      • Pleural
      • Peritoneal
      • Epithelioid
      • Sarcomatoid
      • Biphasic
    • Stages
      • Stage 1
      • Stage 2
      • Stage 3
      • Stage 4
    • Additional Information
      • Causes
      • Asbestos and Its Dangers
      • Facts
      • Support
      • Financial Compensation
      • FREE Mesothelioma Packet
  • Treatment
    • Treatment Options
      • Surgery
      • Chemotherapy
      • Radiation Therapy
      • Multimodal Therapy
      • Medications
      • Palliative Treatment
    • Find Top Doctors
      • Doctors
      • Treatment Centers
      • Treatment & Doctors Near You
      • New Treatments
      • Care Providers
      • Clinical Trials
      • Costs
  • Asbestos Trusts
  • Compensation
  • Veteran Assistance
    • Mesothelioma and Veterans
      • VA Claims for Mesothelioma
      • Vietnam Veterans
    • Military Branches and Asbestos
      • Navy Veterans
      • Navy Ships
      • Marine Corps Veterans
      • Army Veterans
      • Air Force Veterans
      • U.S. Coast Guard
  • Surviving Mesothelioma
  • About Us / Contact
  • Home
  • ›
  • Malignant Mesothelioma
  • ›
  • Support
  • ›
  • Financial Tips
Page Updated: June 23, 2022

Financial Tips for Living with Cancer

Anne Courtney Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Anne Courtney, AOCNP, DNP

FREE Mesothelioma Packet

Fact Checked

This page has been fact-checked by a Doctor of nursing practice specializing in Oncology and has experience working with mesothelioma patients.

FREE Mesothelioma Packet

Sources of information are listed at the bottom of the article. We make every attempt to keep our information accurate and up-to-date. 

Please Contact Us with any questions or comments.

Financial tips for living with cancer can help patients cope with the burden of treatment and other costs. Mesothelioma treatments, medications, and associated travel add up quickly, but patients can access helpful resources through advocacy groups.

FREE Mesothelioma Packet

financial plan for mesothelioma

The Overall Economic Impact of Cancer

To understand the personal financial burden of cancer, it helps to look at the bigger picture. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality estimated the direct medical costs of cancer in the U.S. in 2018 at over $112 billion.[1]

More than 40% of his cost was from outpatient hospital treatments or doctor visits. About a quarter of the cost was for inpatient hospital treatment. This total only includes direct medical care.[1] There are also lost work hours, which come to billions of dollars every year, which have not been factored in.

The Extra Costs of Mesothelioma

Depending on where you live and what medical care is accessible, some patients need to travel to receive care from those familiar with mesothelioma.

Because mesothelioma is a rare cancer, there is an added benefit to being treated by those familiar with the disease. On the other hand, this can lead to additional costs, such as traveling to cancer centers, which your insurance does not reimburse.

The Impact on Quality of Life

The financial burden can have a huge impact on quality of life. One study found that patients struggling financially also experienced more mental and physical health problems. These patients also experienced less satisfaction in relationships and activities than financially stable ones.

Having financial problems while struggling with cancer adds to emotional distress. This can prevent a person from receiving the best care, thus leading to decreased physical health.[2]

Managing Finances During Cancer Treatment

The costs associated with cancer and its treatment can be confusing; therefore, tracking expenses and keeping all records and bills organized is essential. If you don’t have the energy for it, ask a friend or family member for help.

As you begin treatment, know what you will be paying for. Many aspects of care cost money, and you may not know them all. Here is a partial list of cancer costs:[3]

  • Doctor visits
  • Chemotherapy or radiation sessions
  • Surgery and other procedures
  • Medications
  • Imaging tests and scans
  • Hospital stays
  • Home care, including nurses and equipment
  • Supplemental care, like physical therapy or counseling
  • Transportation or travel if you need to go out of town or out of state for care

You should take an active part in planning for your care. Ask questions of your medical team as they develop treatment plans. If you are worried about cost, ask the price of treatment and whether your insurance will cover it.

Don’t be afraid to seek help or find alternatives if something seems overly expensive or unnecessary. Your doctors should be able to answer all your questions.

Understand How Your Insurance Works

If you have insurance coverage, it should cover many of your medical and related costs; however, it is important to understand your insurance plan, its terms, coverage, and preferred doctors or networks.

You should also know if there are requirements for approval before receiving certain treatments or procedures. Be sure to talk to your insurance company about your treatment and any concerns you have.[3]

Try Government Resources

If you do not have private health insurance, you may qualify for coverage under Medicaid or Medicare. These federal programs provide health insurance for people over sixty-five (Medicare) and people with low incomes (Medicaid).[4]

Another government resource is Social Security Disability Income. This resource may provide a small income if you qualify and are unable to work.[5]

Seek Financial and Other Resources to Help Save on Costs

Many organizations, including government, community, and non-profit groups, offer resources and support for cancer patients. Some help patients with any cancer. Others are dedicated to specific cancers, like mesothelioma.

Contact these groups to find out how they can help you manage your finances:

  • CancerCare: This non-profit organization offers financial assistance and other resources for cancer patients and their families. When you contact the group, an oncology social worker will help you get the resources you need.[6]
  • Needymeds: NeedyMeds is a non-profit organization that helps patients pay for the medications they need.[7]
  • Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition: The CFAC is a group of nationwide organizations with a searchable database of resources to help cancer patients cover care costs.[8]
  • Corporate Angel Network: If you need to travel for treatment, this group will find you empty seats on corporate and private planes for free.[9]
  • Hope Lodge: Founded by the American Cancer Society, this organization has thirty-two lodges around the country open to cancer patients and their families as places to stay for free when traveling for treatment.[10]
  • The Veterans Administration: If you served in the U.S. military, there is a chance your mesothelioma is a result of asbestos exposure during service. You can file a claim with the VA to seek medical care and compensation.[11]
  • Legal resources: You can take legal action if you believe you can connect your mesothelioma to asbestos exposure that an employer or other company is liable for. A lawsuit may result in a settlement. There may also be an asbestos trust fund available to compensate victims.

Cancer imposes a financial burden on most patients. Even with insurance, the stress of paying for treatments can be overwhelming. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to rely on friends and family to help. You can also contact resources for assistance.

Get Your FREE Mesothelioma Packet

Page Medically Reviewed and Edited by Anne Courtney, AOCNP, DNP

Anne Courtney

Anne Courtney has a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner. She has years of oncology experience working with patients with malignant mesothelioma, as well as other types of cancer. Dr. Courtney currently works at University of Texas LIVESTRONG Cancer Institutes.

Connect with Doctor of Nursing Practice Anne Courtney
References
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, June 8). The Impact of Cancer.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/uscs/technical_notes/index.htm
  2. Fenn, K.M., Evans, S.B., McCorkle, R., DiGiovanna, M.P., Pusztai, L., Sanft, T., Hofstatter, E..W., Killelea, B.K., Knobf, M.T., Lannin, D.R., Abu-Khalaf, M., Horowitz, N.R., and Chagpar, A.B. (2014, September 1). Impact of Financial Burden of Cancer on Survivors’ Quality of Life. Journal of Oncology Practice. 10(5). DOI: 10.1200/JOP.2013.001322.
    Retrieved from: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/jop.2013.001322
  3. American Cancer Society. (2019, May 13). Things to Know About the Cost of Your Cancer Treatment.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.org/treatment/finding-and-paying-for-treatment/understanding-financial-and-legal-matters/managing-costs/the-cost-of-cancer-treatment.html
  4. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). What is the Difference Between Medicare and Medicaid?
    Retrieved from: https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/what-is-the-difference-between-medicare-medicaid/index.html
  5. Social Security Administration. (n.d.). Benefits for People with Disabilities.
    Retrieved from: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/
  6. CancerCare. (n.d.). Our Services.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cancercare.org/services
  7. NeedyMeds. (n.d.). Find Help with the Cost of Medicine.
    Retrieved from: https://www.needymeds.org/
  8. Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition. (n.d.). Find Assistance from Organizations Providing Financial or Practical Help.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cancerfac.org/
  9. Corporate Angel Network. (n.d.). About Us.
    Retrieved from: https://www.corpangelnetwork.org/#/AboutUs
  10. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Hope Lodge.
    Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programs-and-services/patient-lodging/hope-lodge.html
  11. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Veterans Asbestos Exposure.
    Retrieved from: https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/asbestos/
View All References

Site Navigation

Home
Malignant Mesothelioma
How to Survive Mesothelioma
100 Questions & Answers about Mesothelioma (Free Book)
Surviving Mesothelioma - Beating the Odds (Free Book)
FREE Mesothelioma Packet
Symptoms
Shortness of Breath
Cough
Night Sweats and Fever
Weight Loss
Pain
Difficulty Swallowing
Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
Gastrointestinal Complications
Diagnosis
Pathology
Staging
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 4
Metastasis and Progression
Brain Metastasis
Biopsy
miRview Test
Imaging
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy in Mesothelioma
Biomarkers and Blood Tests
Calretinin
Prognosis
Remission
Recurrence
Death Rate
Life Expectancy
Search for a Mesothelioma Cure
Types
Pleural
Peritoneal
Epithelioid
Sarcomatoid
Biphasic
Pericardial
Testicular
Cell Types
Rare Subtypes of Mesothelioma
Deciduoid
Desmoplastic
Heterologous
Lymphohistiocytoid
Well-Differentiated Papillary
Tubulopapillary
Small Cell
Benign
Adenomatoid
Cystic
Unresectable
Localized
Idiopathic
Omental
Causes
Risk Factors
Latest Research
Genetic Components
Incidence
Latency Period
Mesothelioma Tumor
Health Insurance Coverage
Related Conditions
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Cholangiocarcinoma
Atelectasis
Pleural Plaques
Pleural Thickening
Pleural Effusion
Peritoneal Effusion (Ascites)
Mesothelial Hyperplasia and Proliferation
Pleuritis and Pleurisy
COPD
Anemia
Breast Cancer
Prevention
Complications
Misdiagnosis
Mesothelioma Commercial
Talcum Baby Powder
Lawyer
Lawsuits
Class Action Lawsuits
Settlements
Simian Virus 40
Differences From Other Cancers
Lung Cancer
Women
Children and Young Adults
Unknown Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma Without Asbestos
Cause of Death
Facts 
History
Awareness
Government and Research
National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank
Support
What to Expect
Living with Mesothelioma
Help a Loved One
Wrong and Right Things to Say
Caregivers
Financial Tips
Faith
Nutrition and Lifestyle
Intimacy
Mesothelioma and Fertility in Men
Fertility in Women with Mesothelioma
Emotional Health
COVID-19
Assisted Living
Hospice Care
Dying from Mesothelioma
Mourning
Coping Guide for Children
End-of-Life Decisions
Mesothelioma Awareness Day
Compensation for Victims
Lawyer
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington D.C.
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Lawsuit
Settlements
Statute of Limitations
Treatment
Surgery
Side Effects
Pneumonectomy
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
Lobectomy
Pleurectomy/Decortication
Post Op Care
Pleurectomy/Decortication vs. Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
Peritonectomy/Cytoreductive Surgery
Thoracotomy
Thoracoscopy
Pericardiectomy
Wedge Resection
Pleurodesis
Pericardiocentesis
Prosthetics
Paracentesis
Thoracentesis
Chemotherapy
Side Effects
Heated Intraperitoneal
Radiation Therapy
Side Effects
Intensity-Modulated
Brachytherapy
Proton Therapy
Image-Guided
External Beam
Three-Dimensional
Multimodal Therapy
New Treatments
SMART Protocol
Gene Therapy
Suicide Gene Therapy
Tumor-Based p53 Therapy
Cryotherapy for Mesothelioma
Tumor Treating Fields
MicroRNA
Palliative Treatment
Osteopathic
Doctors
Treatment Centers
Treatment & Doctors Near You
Mesothelioma Experts
Medications
Alimta (pemetrexed)
Adriamycin (doxorubicin)
Avastin (bevacizumab)
Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide)
Gemzar (gemcitabine)
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab)
Mitomycin
Navelbine (vinorelbine)
Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab)
Paraplatin (carboplatin)
Platinol (cisplatin)
Rheumatrex (methotrexate)
Sutent (sunitinib)
Taxol (paclitaxel)
Medical Marijuana
Care Providers
Clinical Trials
Anetumab Ravtansine
Atezolizumab
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cell
Durvalumab
Immunotoxin
Interferon Alfa-2b
Onconase (Ranpirnase)
VISTA Protein
Costs
Immunotherapy
Nanotechnology
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Home Medical Equipment
HMGB1 Secretion
Photodynamic Therapy
Targeted Therapies
Apoptosis
Stem Cells
Lung Transplantation
Body-Based Therapies
Alternative Therapies
Paul Kraus’s Method
Doctors and Treatment in Canada
Asbestos Trusts
Veterans
VA Claims for Mesothelioma
Vietnam Veterans
Military Branches and Asbestos
Navy Veterans
Navy Ships
Aircraft Carriers
Battleships
Destroyers
Asbestos on Navy Cruisers
Submarines
Amphibious Ships
Minesweepers
Auxiliary Ships
Marine Corps Veterans
Army Veterans
Air Force Veterans
U.S. Coast Guard
Asbestos
Occupational Exposure
Construction Workers
Shipyard Workers
Ship Repair
Steel Mill Workers
Industrial Workers
Boiler Workers
Power Plant Workers
Firefighters
Automotive Workers
Roofers
Oil Refineries
Mining
Transportation Industry
Machine Operators
Farmers and Agricultural Workers
Migrant Workers
Electrical Wiring
Labor Unions
Prisons
Chimneys, Furnaces, and Wood Stoves
Fiberglass Connection to Mesothelioma
Home Remodeling
School Buildings, Teachers
For Tech Students
Cancer
Lung Cancer
Pleural Based Cancers
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian Cancer Lawsuits
Companies That Used Asbestos
Awareness and Education
Types of Asbestos & Mesothelioma Risk
Asbestosis
Interstitial Lung Disease
Smoking
Asbestos Ingestion
Exposure in a Natural Disaster
Ban Asbestos
Libby, Montana
Recycling Asbestos
Asbestos Detection
Legal Information by State
Canada
Mexico
United Kingdom
Australia
  • Malignant Mesothelioma
    • Treatment
    • Asbestos Trusts
  • Compensation
    • Veteran Assistance
    • Surviving Mesothelioma
  • FREE Mesothelioma Packet
    • Mesothelioma News
    • About Us / Contact
  • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Editorial Guidelines and Standards
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
The information provided by Mesothelioma.net is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Mesothelioma.net

5430 LBJ Freeway Suite 1200
Dallas, Texas 75240

Serving mesothelioma victims nationwide

1-800-692-8608

  • facebook
  • twitter
© 2022 Mesothelioma.net