Articles
Cancer diagnosis: 11 tips for coping
Content
Get the facts about your cancer diagnosis
Keep the lines of communication open
Anticipate possible physical changes
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Let friends and family help you
Review your goals and priorities
Try to maintain your normal lifestyle
Consider how your diagnosis will impact your finances
Talk to other people with cancer
Fight stigmas
Develop your own coping strategy
Consider how your diagnosis will impact your finances
Many unexpected financial burdens can arise as a result of a cancer diagnosis. Your treatment may require time away from work or an extended time away from home. Consider the additional costs of medications, medical devices, traveling for treatment and parking fees at the hospital.
Many clinics and hospitals keep lists of resources to help you financially during and after your cancer treatment. Talk with your health care team about your options.
Questions to ask include:
- Will I have to take time away from work?
- Will my friends and family need to take time away from work to be with me?
- Will my insurance pay for these treatments?
- Will my insurance cover the cost of medications?
- How much will my out-of-pocket costs be?
- If insurance won't pay for my treatment, are there assistance programs that can help?
- Do I qualify for disability benefits?
- How does my diagnosis affect my life insurance?
