Understanding Types of Costs
The costs you may encounter on your journey can be both medical and non-medical. What you ultimately pay will vary, based on factors that are unique to your situation.
Medical Costs
- Doctor and healthcare team appointments
- CLL medications: The type(s) and length of your treatment can impact costs
- Lab and imaging tests and diagnostic procedures
- Other medications recommended from your care team
- Insurance coverage: Your insurance coverage can impact how much you may need to pay directly
Non-Medical Costs
- Transportation, travel, and lodging
- Lifestyle and living expenses
- At-home supportive care
NAVIGATING CLL EXPENSES
Understanding How Much Your Care Will Cost
Your insurance company can answer questions about your plan and its benefits, including how much your care is expected to cost.
Many insurance companies can answer questions via phone call, email, and even online chat. Insurance company contact information is found on the back of your insurance card, or online.
Getting Help to Pay for Your Care
There are several kinds of organizations that can help you pay for CLL treatments.
Copay assistance programs are designed to help patients cover out-of-pocket costs associated with prescription medications. These programs can be sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, nonprofit organizations, or foundations.
How They Work: Eligible patients may receive a grant or financial support to reduce their copayment for specific medications. This assistance can lower the amount a patient pays for treatment.
Eligibility: Typically, patients need to provide information about their income, insurance coverage, and the medications they require to qualify for assistance.
Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) are initiatives created by pharmaceutical companies to provide free or low-cost medications to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.
How They Work: Patients can apply to receive medications at no cost or a significantly reduced price. The program may require documentation of financial need.
Eligibility: Patients usually need to meet specific income guidelines and demonstrate a lack of prescription drug coverage. Each program has its own criteria, so it’s vital to check with the specific PAP for details.
Numerous nonprofit organizations and foundations offer financial support for the cost of medications and treatment. These organizations often focus on specific diseases or conditions, providing targeted resources.
How They Work: Patients can apply for grants or financial aid that can help cover medication costs, transportation for treatment, and other related expenses.
Eligibility: Many foundations have specific eligibility criteria based on income, diagnosis, and other factors. It’s essential to review each foundation’s guidelines to determine if you qualify.
Some pharmaceutical companies offer programs that provide medications at no cost to eligible patients. These programs may be referred to as “free drug” programs.
How They Work: Patients may apply to receive their medications for free. This is particularly beneficial for those who cannot afford the full price of their prescriptions.
Eligibility: Patients must demonstrate financial need to qualify for a free drug program, often by showing proof of income and/or insurance.
Many pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies offer discount cards or coupons that can be used to reduce the cost of medications.
How They Work: Patients can present these cards or coupons at their pharmacy to receive a discount on their prescription costs.
Eligibility: Generally, there are no strict eligibility requirements, and anyone can utilize these savings tools, though they may have expiration dates or be limited to certain medications.
Check if your care team has a financial counselor…
Financial counselors help patients and caregivers navigate the often complex burden of cancer treatment. These counselors typically understand insurance plans, what support drug manufacturers might offer, and more.
…or a nurse navigator
Nurse navigators guide patients and caregivers along the cancer journey by coordinating care, providing education, helping with treatment adherence, connecting patients to resources, and being a consistent point of contact.
Reach out immediately to your doctor if you’re having trouble following your treatment plan, or avoiding appointments because of the stress associated with affordability or out-of-pocket costs.
