Financial aid is extremely essential for timely treatment of cancer patients, which can help in alleviating the symptoms associated with this dreadful disease.
Several years ago, there were very few options available for the treatment of cancer patients. The reason was mainly the lack of technological developments in the field of medicine. However, extensive research and advanced technology have changed the situation drastically over the years. More and more such patients began to benefit from treatment in hospital setups across the world, especially in developed nations. However, the high cost of such treatment is one of the main factors to worry about. Depending on the type of cancer and the complications of the case, treatment costs have gone up much over the years. This is obviously a big deterrent for a majority of the population who cannot afford it. Thus, the need for alternative sources of financial help for such patients arises. Following are some of the options that can be explored:
Nonprofit Organizations
Financial aid can be obtained from nonprofit organizations, which provide the required finance, after completing the necessary formalities. These organizations take up a majority of the costs of your hospital stay and surgeries.
Spread the Word
Money can be raised for their treatment by organizing programs for individual contribution. By holding seminars and conveying the importance of these donations, the public can be motivated to come forward for the cause. In order to meet the monetary needs of cancer patients, many low-cost hospitals have also been started. These hospitals are mostly controlled by the government, and hence, provide treatment at very low costs.
Dedicated Institutions
A nonprofit agency, CancerCare, is engaged in providing financial help for cancer patients. This institution has special offerings for women from low-income families and for underprivileged people. Patients who are unable to bear the high hospitalization charges can also benefit from the Hill-Burton program, in which certain hospitals receive funds and proper directions from the federal government. By contacting the office of American Cancer Society (ACS), you can expect help, when it comes to the cost of medicines and other medical expenses.
Health Insurance
Health insurance can help to considerably reduce the burden of health costs, especially for such dreadful medical conditions. However, the fact is that very few people have their own health insurance. So, providing affordable health insurance, in which insurance companies bear the total treatment costs on a payment of marginal premiums, can be a huge relief for patients.
Special Initiatives
There is the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA), which has a special patient care department that provides monetary, as well as emotional assistance to cancer patients. The grants, which are offered by the Sarcoma Alliance, can be up to one thousand dollars. Medicaid, which is an initiative of the federal as well as the state governments, is also well-known for offering such help. This program can cover the costs incurred for nursing, surgeries, general care, and chemotherapy for such patients.
These initiatives have helped many people deal with the disease successfully, without having to worry much about the finances involved. If each citizen understands his responsibility and contributes in his own way, then these organizations will be able to render even better services.
