Is Financial Help Available for Patients With a Terminal Illness?

Different forms of financial assistance are available for patients with terminal illnesses and their families. These resources are often helpful in offsetting some of the costs associated with end-of-life care. There are many charitable patient assistance programs, some of which help patients with specific conditions and others that assist based on specific needs. Assistance can include transportation costs, housing costs, food costs, phone and internet access and more. 

Organizations such as the Patient Advocate Foundation or FundFinder can help match patients and their families to potential financial assistance opportunities. Some nonprofit programs assist with copayments for medication and related deductibles. Additionally, government programs such as Medicaid and Medicare can cover costs for medical equipment, hospice, palliative care, and other associated expenses. Disease-specific foundations also tend to provide grants and similar funding to support patients and their families. 

It is important to understand that seeking financial assistance for medical care or related needs should not be a source of shame or embarrassment. Instead, it should be viewed as taking a proactive step to maintain continuity of care and comfort during the final stages of life. Although paying for care for a terminal illness can pose a significant financial challenge, patients and their families can find assurance in knowing that there are numerous organizations and programs that are willing to help. 

Sources

“Financial Assistance Programs”. American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/help-support/financial-assistance-programs 

“Programs and Resources to Help with Cancer-related Expenses”. American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters/managing-health-insurance/programs-and-resources-to-help-with-cancer-related-expenses.html