Did you know that cancer treatments are a leading cause of medical debt in Ohio and across the country? A cancer diagnosis is a devastating thing for anyone to face. Not only is it mentally and physically challenging to fight, but it can also have a significant impact on an individual’s and family’s financial situation.
If you or a loved one is fighting cancer, the last thing you want to think about is money. However, when the bills come rolling in and medical professionals expect their payment, you will have to face your money concerns.
How much are cancer treatments costing residents of the United States?
According to the American Cancer Society, in 2014, the cost for cancer treatments in the United States reached nearly $88 billion. Insurance may cover a portion of what you owe, but it may not be much, leaving you with a significant sum to pay out of your own pocket. Those who are uninsured will typically owe even more, because they are usually diagnosed after the cancer has progressed and therefore require more aggressive treatment measures.
What makes cancer treatments so expensive?
Cancer treatments involve much more than just going to the pharmacy and picking up pills. Treatment often involves:
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Medications
- Specialist fees
- Other medical fees
All of these things can add up to thousands of dollars a month, every month over the course of one’s treatment.
What are my options if I cannot pay my medical bills?
If you have significant medical debt that you are struggling to pay, you have a few options. You may be able to:
- Work out a payment plan with your provider
- Apply for financial aid
- Seek out other debt relief options
Too often, people who are ill forgo treatments because they worry about going deeper into debt. This does not have to happen to you or your loved one.
How can an attorney help resolve my medical debt issues?
Ohio residents who are battling both physical and financial woes due to cancer diagnoses may qualify for certain forms of debt relief. By filing for Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy, all or a portion of your medical debts can be discharged or reduced to create an affordable repayment plan. If you are struggling with medical debt, an experienced attorney can help you resolve your financial issues so that you can focus on what matters most–your health and recovery.