Getting Financial Help for Medical Expenses Related to Asbestos

Here is a quick guide to solutions and financial solutions in case you have concerns for asbestos-related cancer or mesothelioma:

Government Agencies and Nonprofit Organizations for Financial Assistance

When a patient is diagnosed with cancer or mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, there are many unanswered questions. One of the biggest concerns for many patients and their family members is the issue of cost. Fortunately, many agencies and resources are available to help relieve medical expenses related to asbestos-related diseases.

Cancer Treatment

Some government agencies that provide aid for cancer treatment are:

The Health Resources and Services Administration
The Hill-Burton program
Medicaid
Medicare
The Veterans Association

Some nonprofit organizations that provide aid for cancer treatment are:

The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America
CancerCare
NeedyMeds
Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
The PAF’s Co-Pay Relief Program
Patient Assistance Program

Mesothelioma Treatment

Government agencies that provide aid for the practical needs of Mesothelioma patients are:

Eldercare Locator, a referral service provided by the US Administration on Aging
Benefits.gov
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Several nonprofit agencies that provide aid for the practical needs of Mesothelioma patients are:

The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America
The American Cancer Society
The National Patient Travel Helpline

Compassionate Allowances (CAL)

CAL refers to Compassionate Allowances, an expedited process for those applying for Social Security Disability benefits, that allows the Social Security Administration to quickly identify severe medical conditions to help applicants who meet disability standards. The SSA can quickly target the most disabled individuals based on objective medical information they can obtain.

While there is no particular application or form unique to the CAL initiative, individuals with a CAL condition can apply through the standard SSA process for filing claims for the Social Security Disability Initiative (SSDI), SSI, or both SSDI and SSI benefits. The SSA will expedite applications with CAL conditions. These applications can be filed online, in local field offices, or by calling the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213.

Learn More About Compassionate Allowances Here

CancerCare

CancerCare provides funding for home care, transportation, and child care for: women and children with cancer diagnoses of all types, pancreatic cancer patients, all adult patients with diagnoses who reside in San Diego and Imperial counties, CA; all patients who have diagnoses in Long Island, New York City, Rockland Counties and Westchester in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

Only transportation is provided for men and women with multiple myeloma and metastatic melanoma. Funding is also provided for anti-nausea medication, pain medication, lymphedema supplies, oral hormonal medication, and durable medical equipment needed by all adults with breast cancer, whether male or female.

To be eligible for financial assistance from CancerCare, the patient must have a diagnosis of cancer confirmed by an oncology health care provider, be in active treatment for cancer, live in the U.S. or Puerto Rico, and meet their eligibility guidelines of 250% of the Federal Poverty Limit.

To apply for CancerCare funding, call the hotline 800-813-HOPE (4673) to speak to a CancerCare social worker to complete a brief interview. Once eligibility is determined, you will be mailed an individualized application form to complete. You must also submit proof of income, along with the properly completed application form.

Find Out More About CancerCare Here

Asbestos Settlements

Patients with mesothelioma, exposed to asbestos used by companies who knew of its devastating effects before government regulations, could be entitled to asbestos settlements. Most asbestos settlements will compensate victims for medical expenses, loss of health and income, and the pain, suffering, and physiological trauma they endure.

It’s important to enlist the services of a local lawyer that’s qualified to handle the case. Asbestos settlements are reached by determining the companies responsible for the exposure and the personal damages incurred, including medical bills, lost income, compensation for pain and suffering.

Many personal injury claims such as this can usually be settled without going to court. Sometimes they will need to be settled in a trial before a judge and jury, depending on the unique scenario of the case.

Becoming as informed as possible and knowing your rights is essential in obtaining financial assistance. With our extensive experience and knowledge, we will assess your situation and offer you sound professional advice.