Managing the Cost of Cancer Treatment

Worries about costs of care are common when you are facing a cancer diagnosis. Learn how to talk about the financial side of cancer and where to go for help.

older white couple looking at a laptop and papers

Tips to Talk About Cancer Costs

For many families facing cancer, financial worries about the costs of treatment are a significant source of stress, and they don't know where to turn. Asking for and accepting help can be hard.

Two important questions to ask about managing the cost of cancer care are:

  • What financial impact will my cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment have on my life?
  • Am I able to coordinate the financial piece of my cancer care right now?

I think all of us, when we look at cancer...want closure so we can move on with our lives. The financial aspect can be the most difficult to resolve.

Sue Breast, melanoma, and metastatic lung cancer survivor
A husband and wife clasp hands to comfort each another

The first step in managing the cost of cancer treatment is to seek help.

Do you have a friend or family member who can help you? If not, ask your doctor to refer you to an oncology social worker, a financial counselor, or a nonprofit organization for help managing financial issues and cancer costs. Many people diagnosed with cancer ask someone else for help to keep up with the financial aspects of cancer care. The key is that someone must address these issues.

A helpline counselor wearing a headset

Reach Out for Support

Our Helpline offers free navigation for cancer patients or their loved ones, including financial navigation regarding the costs of cancer care.

Call Our Helpline at 888-793-9355

Our toll-free Cancer Support Helpline is for anyone affected by cancer. Our navigators are available and ready to assist you, whether you are looking for cancer resources and information or someone to talk to about the emotional and social worries that cancer can sometimes bring into our lives. 

Our Helpline offers:

  • Connections to local or national resources, including support groups, housing, transportation services, and other programs
  • Referrals to financial, clinical trials, genetics/genomics, and pediatric oncology resources
  • Advice on talking to children, family, and healthcare providers
  • Supportive counseling in over 200 languages
Duration: 2 min

Financial Toxicity

ASK RUBY about Managing Financial Toxicity My budget was already tight but since being diagnosed with cancer, I need help with medical bills as well as my daily living expenses. Where can I go for help?

Gain a Sense of Control

Resources to Help You Navigate Common Questions & Concerns About Cost of Care

Patients Share How They Coped With Cancer Costs

Duration: 4 min

Dealing with the Cost of Oral Drugs

Donita, a Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) survivor, discusses the difficulties of dealing with the cost of oral drugs, especially when undergoing changes in health insurance coverage.

CSC support room

Step Into Our Support Room

Discover more free resources to help you or a loved one navigate the financial, practical, social, and emotional concerns that can come with cancer.

Visit Our Support Room Now

Webinars & eLearnings

Duration: 12 min

10 Tips to Help You Lower the Costs of Cancer Care

Ways to prepare for out-of-pocket costs Planning for future costs Ideas for lowering costs Resources and information about financial aid Learn more about lowering the Costs of Cancer Care

Would you like a print copy of these educational materials?

We can mail our Frankly Speaking About Cancer pieces to you. Shipping is free for up to 20 pounds.

Order Now