Managing the Costs of a Cancer Diagnosis

A breast cancer diagnosis is expensive. The costs associated with treatment and follow-up care can be a financial strain for most people and their families, even with health insurance.

Besides the costs of treatments such as surgery or radiation, you may be facing extra expenses for transportation to and from treatments, child care while you’re having treatment, or special foods to make sure your nutritional needs are being met. If you’ve had to take time off from work and your income is lower, these living expenses can be challenging to cover.

We know paying for treatment may seem overwhelming. But don’t panic, and don’t skip any treatments or doctor’s visits.

If you live in Alabama, Forge has many resources available to help you, including gas cards or Lyft rides to get to medical appointments, grocery cards to help you with nutrition, and free, volunteer financial advisors to work with you on your budget.  Contact our Client Services Coordinator, Janet Dees, at (205) 990-5367 or [email protected] for help. Si hablas español y quieres más información, por favor contacta a Ana Emaldi, al (205) 990-5375 O al [email protected].

 

Useful videos:

Cancer Conversation: Financial Toxicity of a Cancer Diagnosis

Forge Coffee Conversation: Financial Health and Breast Cancer

Coffee Conversation: Finances and Cancer

 

These resources may be helpful, too.