Advanced Breast Cancer
Financial Considerations
Planning for the costs of cancer care
Coming to terms with an advanced breast cancer diagnosis and understanding the treatments that are best for you is obviously your focus. Though it may feel like less of a priority, it is also important for you to be aware of the costs involved in your care. Knowing which costs you may have and how to plan for them in your budget is helpful as you move forward.
Health care costs and insurance issues can be complex. Keep in mind that you do not have to tackle this alone. Many people are available to help. Ask your nurse navigator or a member of your supportive care team to put you in touch with a financial representative at your doctor’s office or hospital. Do not feel embarrassed to talk with them about your financial situation. They expect you to, and they are skilled at guiding you to reputable sources for answers and assistance.
Following are the general types of expenses you are likely to have. Familiarize yourself with them to get a basic understanding of the costs ahead.
Step 1
Medical expenses. These include medical office visits, tests, treatments, drugs and caregiving, which are the most obvious additions to your spending. Contact the financial staff at your doctor’s office. They can help you understand your insurance policy and out-of-pocket expenses. They may also have access to programs that offer certain medications at reduced costs. You can also refer to the financial resources below.
Step 2
Lifestyle expenses. You may have increased living expenses because of new, cancer-related costs, which include supportive care items or wigs, prosthetics, etc. You may spend more money on transportation, travel, legal assistance, child or elder care, meal preparation or housecleaning. Reach out to your social worker, patient advocate or patient navigator at your medical facility. They can refer you to local organizations, advocacy groups and other nonprofit organizations that may offer assistance in these and other areas.
Step 3
Income changes and special expenses. Your income may be reduced if you have to cut back on hours at your job, take a leave of absence or stop working completely. Make a budget for your adjusted income. If you can, set aside funds for something special, such as activities or trips with your family and friends to help ease the stress of this difficult time. It may feel like splurging, but making happy memories with your loved ones can be wonderful and emotionally healing.
