Beyond Medicaid/Medicare Services: Financial Assistance for Cancer Patients

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FayToday News
October 31, 2010
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Here are some resources to find more information about financial assistance beyond Medicaid/Medicare.

You must check the criteria for eligibility for most, just as you would Medicaid/Medicare. Please do not get discouraged from the requirements or process as it may feel tedious, yet well worth it in the longrun. I recommend reviewing your denial letter & the eligibility from Social Services. There is an appeal process and may also be someone that can assist in this legal matter as well.

The current laws (Afforadable Healthcare Act) is slated to become effective in 2014 which focuses on insurance companies to accept patients with pre-existing conditions. Although we do not know the outcome of the election or how it will effect this law, I suggest finding external resources. Later, you can be advised on this law’s impact in receiving further aid.

Good luck ~ FayToday

Cumberland Community Action Program, Inc.

Cynthia L. Wilson
Chief Executive Officer
P.O. Box 2009
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Telephone: (910) 485-6131
Fax: (910) 485-7479
Email: francisco.olivarez@ccap-inc.org
URL: http://www.ccap-inc.org

Better Health
1422 Bragg Blvd.
Fayetteville, NC 28301
(910) 483-7534
FAX (910) 483-2157
Information@BetterHealthCC.org

Business Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5

Client Financial Assistance: 8:00-12:00, 1:00-4:00

Federal assistance through hospitals

Hill-Burton free or reduced cost care
Hill-Burton is a federal program that provides money to hospitals for construction of new or improved facilities. Under the terms of the grants, the hospitals are required to provide some services at zero or reduced costs to persons who cannot otherwise afford them. Each hospital chooses which services it will provide at no or reduced cost. The covered services are specified in a notice which is published by the hospital and also in a notice provided to all persons seeking services in the facility.

Private foundations

American Cancer Society
Local ACS office often help cancer patients with treatment-related travel expenses including transportation, medicine and medical supplies. Along with financial assistance, ACS offers support and advice for cancer patients and family members, as well as extensive news on cancer prevention and research.

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Formerly the Leukemia Society of America, The Society provides supplementary financial assistance to patients in need. The program is supported entirely by public contributions.

Tax Considerations

Cancer patients often encounter treatment-related expenses that are not covered by insurance. Some of these expenses can be tax deductible. Examples of deductible expenses includemileage for trips to and from medical appointments, out-of-pocket costs for treatment, prescription drugs or equipment, and the cost of meals during medical visits.

For more information on deductible medical expenses, contact any local office of the Internal Revenue Service, a tax consultant, or certified public accountant.