cancer patients have access to a wide array of resources, ranging from major national non-profits providing comprehensive support to smaller, specific foundations. These resources offer help with financial
assistance, emotional support, transportation, and lodging.
Comprehensive Support Organizations
These organizations serve as primary points of contact for various needs:
American Cancer Society (ACS): Offers a wide range of services, including a 24/7 helpline, a searchable database for local resources, and the
"Road to Recovery" program which provides free transportation to and from treatment via volunteer drivers. They also help with finding
lodging options.
CancerCare: Provides free, professional support services from oncology social workers, including counseling, support groups, and
educational workshops. They offer limited financial assistance for cancer-related costs like transportation, home care, and treatment co-pays.
Their "Online Helping Hand" is a searchable database of national and regional resources.
Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF): Helps patients navigate insurance issues, manage medical debt, and secure access to care.
They offer a Co-Pay Relief Program for insured patients and provide small grants for non-medical expenses like food, housing, and utilities.
Financial and Co-Pay Assistance
Many organizations focus on easing the financial burden of treatment:
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC): A coalition of organizations offering a searchable database to find assistance
based on diagnosis, location, and type of need (e.g., legal, food, housing).
Co-Pay Foundations: Several non-profits specialize in covering out-of-pocket medication costs for insured patients, including the HealthWell
Foundation, Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, and Good Days.
NeedyMeds: Provides information on patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies that offer medications at low or no cost.
Family Reach: Dedicated to removing the financial barriers to treatment through education, navigation, and emergency relief funds.
Emotional Support and Information
National Cancer Institute (NCI): Provides reliable information on cancer and treatment, and their patient line can answer complex medical
questions.
The Cancer Support Community: Offers a global network of support, including online and in-person support groups and education.
Local Resources: Dialing 211 in many areas connects you to the local United Way, which can refer you to community programs for various needs,
including food and utility assistance.
Key First Step
great first step is to speak with a social worker or patient navigator at the hospital or treatment center.
They can provide personalized guidance and connect you directly with relevant local and national resources.
