How can I get money to pay for my chemotherapy?

Question

I just finished Rituxan chemotherapy. For some reason my medical insurance did not cover the treatment. Now I owe the hospital $40,000 (for 4 treatments). My doctor says if the Rituxan doesn't work...we will do another treatment. That will mean, I will have to come up with $80k. I just want to get better and have a chance of living a normal life, (I am only 28). I can't believe that in the US, a person should have to go through the stress of being sick and then have to deal with being in major debt. It seems like every day there is some sort of fundraising done to benefit cancer and other illnesses...but who is there to help the people that are sick and can't pay thier bills? Is there some type of organization that can help me? I can't tell you how much easier my recovery would be without the stress of money. Does anyone have any ideas? Also, does anyone know how much (or little) a hospital will let you pay each month to avoid sending you to collections? Thank you for your advice!

Answer 1

Call the Ronald McDonald house. They pay for a lot of cancer patients.

Answer 2

First contact your insurance company and file a protest. The claim will then be reconsidered after getting additional information. Second, talk to the hospital's billing department and set up a payment plan (they can take as little as $10 a month is necessary.) Third, contact your local cancer foundation and see if there is some aid available through them. I wish you well.

Answer 3

Many hospitals will write off ALL or part of your bills if you do not have a lot of money. You need to ask them for an application for funding.
Also, drug companies may write the medication cost off...a social worker at the hospital where you recieve the therapy should be able to help you with the "help" programs available.
Good Luck and don't worry...someone will help you.

Answer 4

Have you applied for medicare and also medicaid? They will cover all of your medical expenses between the two organizations. Go to your social security office and then to the DCF/HRS in your area. They can help you. There are also organizations that they can give you information about that will also help. I had them pay a full hospital bill for me that was 27,000 dollars. Good luck!

Answer 5

Sweetie i am so touched,yet upset by your question. You can call up the billing department of your hospital and set up a payment plan.You can pay them 20-40-60 dollars a month or whatever you can afford.That way they can't sue you,or deny you further treatment.This is your life sweetie you have to take care of yourself by getting the treatments you need to survive.Call the billing dept. if you need any help please ,i will help you.

Answer 6

Did the hospital have you speak with a financial advocate? Did they check to see if you qualify for charity assistance? Will the hospital give you a discount if you pay in a certain time period? For sure the Financial Services department should give you the option of a payment plan.

Answer 7

I AM IN TOTAL SHOCK!!! when i was diagnosed with breast cancer the county facility automatically had me put on medicaid.. what stupid state do u live in and apply at the fia or welfare office what ever it is called now
my grandaughter was treated for cancer 8 doses of chemo,,where her parents insurance left off medicaid pick up the tab

Answer 8

Don't take this wrong but have you tried Welfare? My daughter had open heart surgery when she was 4 months old and we had no money. She got on it (Medicaid) and it paid her hospital and surgery bills.

Answer 9

equity home loan, credit cards, waivers... contact the insurance company to see if they can work something out for you or set up payment plans with them