Introduction

Living With Cancer Take My Hand

 

Welcome to the inaugural post on Living With Cancer Take My Hand. If you have found me, chances are you are worried about the financial situation of either yourself or a loved one. Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming in the best of circumstances. Adding the complexity of financial difficulties can lead to panic and despair. As an oncology nurse in the United States for over 20 years, I have provided resources and support to countless people living with cancer. I will offer as much information on financial resources as I can. Cancer treatment is a journey. I will be honored if you take my hand and let me walk a few steps with you.

 

Often, when I pick up my phone, I hear the tear-filled words, “I just spoke with the doctor. He told me I have cancer. I don’t have health insurance, and he gave me your phone number. I don’t know what to do.”

 

Sound familiar? If so, you are not alone. Current statistics show that approximately 27 million people in the United States are uninsured. With these numbers increasing, patients and healthcare professionals are struggling to balance cancer treatment with financial resources. The number one piece of advice I can offer is to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. Financial issues are deeply personal and private. So is your cancer treatment plan.

 

First, let’s decide the best method to organize all of the information, business cards, receipts, appointments, etc. You may want to use a binder, organizer, or a large file folder/envelope. Your cancer team may even offer a free organizer. Whatever you chose, keep the organizer and a calendar with you for the duration of your cancer treatment. For details on organization, go to Getting Organized During Cancer Treatment – Living with cancer take my hand

 

Second, your location is important. Let’s explore some possible next steps

Are you currently in the hospital or at home?

If you are in the hospital, chances are you have already received a visit or information from the hospital financial counselors or a representative from the patient business office. These professionals are experts in financial resources and provide options to uninsured patients. They will be able to determine if you qualify for Medicaid or the healthcare system’s charity services. Typically, either program will provide temporary coverage for health care services.

 

Two errors that often delay this process are patients reporting inaccurate income/asset data and/or a failure to supply required documents. Each state has regulations that healthcare systems must adhere to for providing financial counseling and services. These professionals must submit accurate and complete applications for approval. The process is easier when you provide accurate income information on your application. Most programs require ID, proof of residency, proof of income, and bank statements. If an income discrepancy is noted, this will result in a delay and additional work on your end. There are special circumstances where additional documents are required. The financial counselors will give you a list of what documents are needed to complete your application. Work with them. They want to help you.

 

If you are at home, this process can be more challenging. You may be tempted to purchase any health insurance policy that you can find online. I encourage you to take a minute and look at your options.

• Look at what services are recommended for your cancer treatment. Is it surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatments? If your cancer treatment can be completed with a same day surgical procedure, you may have different options than if you need additional treatments.

• Ask your healthcare provider about available oncology support staff. This includes financial counselors, social workers, nurse navigators, etc. If support services are available, contact them and plan to move forward.

• Review your options for obtaining health insurance. This can be a complicated process, so it is easier if you work with the financial counselor or social worker at the healthcare system or cancer treatment location.

Are you eligible for:

• Medicaid? medicaid.gov

• Medicare? (Remember you will need Medicare part A & B as well as prescription coverage)

• Veteran’s services? va.gov

• Health insurance through your or your spouse’s employer? This option depends on your state regulations as well as the employer. Talk with a representative from the Human Resources or Benefits office.

• Health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace? You may qualify for a special enrollment period.

 Residents of most states use Healthcare.gov to enroll in a Marketplace policy. However, if you live in California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont or Washington, you can find your state’s enrollment link at https://www.healthcare.gov/marketplace-in-your-state/#:~:text=People%20in%20most%20states%20use,business%20health%20coverage%2C%20or%20both.  

 

Do your homework before purchasing a health insurance policy on the marketplace. The least expensive plan may not provide the coverage that you will need for your cancer treatment. Also, you may be eligible for subsidized programs. Find out what your maximum out of pocket responsibility will be and if your provider accepts the plan before you make a purchase.

 

Personally, I have had positive experiences when I call the Health Insurance Marketplace at 1-800-318-2596. I also live in a state that uses Healthcare.gov. Plan to be on the phone for at least an hour, as there is usually a wait time. If this is your best option for coverage, take the time to contact them.

 

Beware of Marketplace scams!

There is no fee to enroll in a Marketplace health insurance plan. No one from the government will call or email you to sell you an insurance plan or ask for personal identifying information. Be careful when giving your personal information, such as credit card, banking, or Social Security numbers. 

• Low cost or sliding scale fee programs? If you live in a state that offers healthcare services at reduced fees, you can contact them to inquiry about available cancer treatment options.

• Federally Qualified Health Care (FQHC) Services or Local Free Clinics? These clinics may not provide cancer treatment services. However, they often provide primary care services such as management of diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Charity/Free services at your healthcare system? This option usually provides a safety net for low income, uninsured residents who require hospital-based services. States and health care systems have a variety of regulations. Coverage is limited, however, so talk with your healthcare provider for available services.

In conclusion, I hope this information is helpful and gives you a starting point. If you would like to continue this conversation, please click on the “subscribe” button at the top of the “Blog” page. I would love to hear your comments as well as resources that have worked for you. Please share this information with your family and friends.

Keeping you in my prayers,

Jackie