A cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event that comes with countless challenges. Among these, the financial burden of treatment can often be overwhelming for patients and families alike. We aim to shed light on numerous organizations that help cancer patients financially, reducing the stress and strain associated with managing healthcare costs during this difficult time.
The American Cancer Society, Cancer Care, and Patient Advocate Foundation; all are examples of groups providing various forms of financial assistance programs to those diagnosed with different types of cancer such as breast or prostate cancer. Simultaneously serving as a robust support system is an integral part of what they offer.
1. American Cancer Society (ACS)
The American Cancer Society, a leading organization in the battle against cancer, is committed to enhancing the lives of those afflicted with this disease and their families. Their objective extends beyond research and advocacy, aiming to create an environment where every individual has access to preventions, early detection methods, treatments, and chances for survival.
Their patient support program offers guidance at each stage of a cancer journey; from advocating for affordable healthcare and enhanced screening accessibility to providing round-the-clock assistance through their helpline. They focus on eliminating financial obstacles associated with treatment such as transportation costs or accommodation charges through their Hope Lodge® program, lodging grants, or partnerships with organizations like Extended Stay America.
2. CancerCare
CancerCare is an esteemed national organization, established in 1944, dedicated to supporting individuals affected by cancer. It offers cost-free, expert services including educational workshops, counseling sessions, support groups, and financial assistance.
The organization also assists with navigating resources and managing the emotional toll of cancer. CancerCare’s team of professionals includes oncology social workers holding master’s degrees and world-renowned cancer experts. The charity actively helps individuals combat both the practical and financial implications that arise during a fight against cancer which includes facilitation for legal fees-related expenses when necessary.
3. Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
Founded in 1996, this organization has been instrumental in dismantling healthcare barriers for diagnosed patients by guaranteeing access to care and fostering their financial stability while safeguarding their employment status. A
4. Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)
The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC) is a collective of organizations dedicated to alleviating the monetary burdens faced by cancer patients. Through efficient collaboration and communication amongst its member entities, CFAC aims to promote improved health and well-being for these individuals.
They assist by educating both patients and healthcare providers about existing financial resources and establishing vital connections with additional external entities that can further disseminate information about available aid.
5. Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation
The Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation is a reputable non-profit organization based in the United States, dedicated to providing financial aid for medical procedures. It holds an impressive rank of #34 on Forbes’ 2019 “Top 100 US Charities” list and demonstrated its dedication with private donations reaching $434 million in that year alone.
Since launching in 2004, PAN has significantly impacted lives by disbursing over $4 billion to nearly a million people. As one of the country’s leading charitable patient assistance foundations, it deeply values its commitment to providing compliant, life-saving financial support daily. The PAN Foundation’s identity and mission revolve around serving patients while upholding its core organizational values.
6. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) is a notable non-profit organization committed to research, funding, and advocacy for curing blood cancers. Its mission revolves around improving the quality of life of patients and their families. This visionary organization thrives on providing education about blood cancer treatments, venturing into pioneering research programs, as well as directing valuable resources toward patient support.
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society runs several distinguished programs including its expansive Research program aimed at comprehensively understanding the complex nature of various blood cancers to develop effective therapies.
7. HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation is a prominent independent non-profit organization devoted to improving access to healthcare for America’s underinsured population. The Foundation works tirelessly to bridge the healthcare affordability gap by providing financial aid for copays, premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses when insurance fails to cover the full extent of their needs.
Since its inception in 2004, it has notably facilitated over 822,000 patients in acquiring essential treatments and medications with generous grants exceeding $896 million through Disease Funds in 2022 alone. The organization is lauded as one of America’s most efficient charities as every dollar donated directly benefits patient grants and services.
The entity offers assistance for prescription copays, health insurance premiums, deductible payments, and coinsurance among other medical costs; supporting both adult and pediatric cases alike. Additionally, it also covers expenses related to travel attached to treatment procedures along with behavioral health services where necessary.
8. Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is a pioneering organization that stands at the forefront of combating pancreatic cancer. Established as the first entity committed to addressing this formidable disease comprehensively, PanCAN has cultivated a nationwide movement over more than two decades.
Their mission embodies bold action, striving to enhance the lives of those affected by pancreatic cancer through extensive scientific research advancement, community building, knowledge sharing, and patient advocacy.
