How Do Cancer Patients Without Health Insurance Get Treatment ?
Cancer is frightening enough when you have health insurance, but those without insurance are facing even more difficult times ahead. With more than 47 million Americans uninsured, it is a statistical reality that some will be diagnosed with cancer. While hospitals and doctors' offices are more concerned with patients who have insurance, there is help out there.
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Free Clinics
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Some patients may find help by going to a free clinic in their area. Federal and state run free clinics provide care to those who do not have health insurance and to those with low incomes. Each clinic provides different services and may have different requirements in place to determine qualification. You can find a list of free clinics in your area by going to the Needy Meds website (see Resources).
Contact a Social Worker
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There are social workers in hospitals throughout the United States who can provide help to cancer patients. Due to their experience in the field, they may be able to provide guidance in getting treatment without insurance. Social workers may know the ins and outs of a local hospital and how to get in touch with the right people.
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Hill-Burton
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The federal government provides funds to hospitals through the Hill-Burton program under the condition that medical care is provided to low-income patients who would not otherwise be able to afford treatment. The federal government requires that hospitals be able to provide services to all residents living in their area and provide a reasonable number of services to those who cannot afford treatment. To find out further information on this program, you can visit the Health Resources & Services Administration website (see Resources).
Do You Qualify for Medicaid or Medicare?
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Another option patients may have in getting treatment is either through Medicaid or Medicare. With both of these programs, individuals must qualify. The qualifications for Medicaid are based on income guidelines determined by each state. As far as Medicare, the only people who qualify are those who are 65 or older; disabled individuals under 65; and regardless of age, anyone who has permanent kidney failure. If you are not eligible under Medicaid and it is determined that you are disabled due to your illness, you may qualify to have treatment paid through Medicare.
Charities with Grants
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CancerCare is a nonprofit agency that helps patients and families dealing with cancer. There are limited grants available for treatment expenses and limited grants for those with active cancer in need of home care, childcare and transportation. To find out more information about CancerCare visit the website (see References).
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References
Resources
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