Facts and Studies

Medical insurance is not protection from the rising costs of cancer care.  Out of pockets medical expenses, as well as non-medical expenses like specialized dietary needs and transportation costs, coupled with the impact an illness has on a family’s income due to missed work or unemployment, result in some sobering statistics. Numerous studies are beginning to emerge, quantifying the costs, both emotional and financial, associated with a cancer diagnosis.

A 2010 survey of oncology social workers revealed that more than one half of cancer patients indicate cancer costs negatively impact their focus on recovery:

40% of patients reported depleting their savings
30% dealt with bill collectors
63% of social workers said financial issues reduce compliance with their cancer treatment

For more than a decade, Family Reach has been helping families with a child or parent afflicted with cancer deal with the overwhelming financial and emotional burden of the disease.  As families try to cope with months of cancer treatment, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and everyday living costs, they often reach critical breaking points. Not only do they risk losing their homes, stability and hope, but also their ability to ensure their loved-ones receive the vital care they need to survive.  Through an effective process developed through years of close collaboration with hospital social workers, Family Reach provides urgent assistance to families in a timely, compassionate fashion.

Please return here regularly, where we will share the latest news on the financial and emotional costs of cancer Family Reach Foundation addresses on a daily basis.