Money for Children With Cancer
A childhood cancer diagnosis causes a lot of stress and worry for both parents and family members. These emotions increase with financial concerns. The financial burden of such a diagnosis cannot be anticipated. Parents of a child with cancer might experience a sudden decrease or loss of income, expenses such as personal and medical along with food and travel dramatically increase, and inadequate insurance coverage that can create a significant financial strain.
Studies show that even families with full health insurance will spend 25 percent or more of their income on items not covered by insurance and co-payments. People without insurance or little insurance are facing severe complications that have the potential to exhaust their savings and possibly put them at risk of losing their home. However, national and local organizations are available to assist with a variety of resources so that extreme hardships can be avoided.
Financial and emotional difficulties associated with a childhood cancer diagnosis can be hard to acknowledge . Initially, some families may feel uncomfortable accepting assistance, but most families need extra support during this time of extreme crisis. Most people want to know what they can do to help, but need guidance on how to provide the support. Telling others what is needed benefits everyone. Financial assistance for a kid with cancer can make a difference by taking care of gas, meals or a few nights’ lodging. Addressing the financial burden can reduce overall stress on the family, while providing opportunities for others to help in an otherwise helpless situation.
Cancer can impose heavy economic burdens on both patients and their families. Government-sponsored programs as well as services supported by nonprofit, national organizations are available for families who do not have health insurance and for those who have insurance but still need financial assistance to cover health care costs. Child cancer patients and their families should discuss any concerns about health care costs with their doctor, medical social worker, or the business office of their hospital or clinic.
General assistance programs providing food, housing, and other services may also be available from the county or city Department of Social Services
For more childhood cancer financial assistance information visit Children’s Cancer Fund of America, Inc.
