Finances?

The ACS has a program to help pay for the cost of travel related to cancer treatment. Contact them asap because they won't reimburse for travel made longer than 30 days prior to when you contact them.

There's also a program for help with the cost of copays. It's called pparx.org.

When I'm feeling really upset about the cost of having bc, I just remind myself that it could be worse. I have to pay $3000.00 out of pocket every year and my ins only pays $500 toward prescription meds. That alone scares me witless. lol But, I'm so glad I have insurance and really glad I don't have to pay like 20% of everything. That would add up fast. Stupid cancer!

Good luck,

Cynthia

gmg the number for acs is 1800 acs 2345

Keep track of EVERY co pay, gas bill- every expense you have-- b/c it is all tax deductible.

I know this won't make you feel better, but be thankful that you have insurance. Even though your co pay was a couple hundred dollars, without insurance, you would've paid thousands.
Instead of arguing with piece of shit insurance reps on the phone, have your insurance company assign you a case manager, and give her NOTHING BUT SUGAR!!! and hopefully she can handle difficult or ridiculous requests for rx's and such that need to be processed. That way, you can save yourself some aggrivation.

Welcome to the side of cancer, the Dr.s never tell you about. They are only concerned with saving you life... the rest is up to you.

Sorry for the blunt reality of the really shitty side of cancer.
But I promise, you will get through this, and even though it will take time after cancer, you will be able to get back on track.

remember to keep those tax records!

I know how you feel. I have had the same worries. Try calling the Young Survivors Coalition to request their book. Alot of helpful info, including financial assistance. Their # is 877.YSC.1011. Also try this website if you are under 40: http://www.bmcf.net/
They will help you out one time with rent or child care, if you qualify financially and they still have funds.
One more: cancercare.org will help you one time. Each one requires an application.
Hope this helps.

Beth was wise to tell you about the tax deduction for medical expenses. Check out the IRS.gov website and look for info on medical deductions. They change from year to year. But generally, you add up all your out-of-pocket expenses for the year for anything not covered by your insurance. You can include the premiums you pay for your health insurance. There is a mileage factor, so keep track of your mileage for any dr visit. There are many expenses that are allowed so check it out and keep very good records for tax time. To qualify for a medical deduction I think out-of-pocket medically qualified expenses have to add up to more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.

For sure, it is worth checking out and knowing what to keep track of!!!

Which group assists you with the prescription co-pays?

Thanks

Snooch

42yrs., Stage IV, ER+PR+HER2-

Thanks for the reminder about keeping good records!  I am getting my prescriptions from German apothekes, but pay US taxes. Between parking fees at the hospital and 20% copay, you can kiss any good financial planning away for a few years.  The euro is killing me as far as payments go to the German doctors, so I'm hoping that will all come back to me at tax time. I've seen some good sites for tracking this stuff, but could always use more links.  Thank you!!