Patient Assistance Programs

In the US, patients have certain rights guaranteed by law. These include the right to a copy of your medical records, the right to keep them private, and the right to receive your information from your healthcare professional to make a treatment decision. Many hospitals have patient advocates who can help patients navigate through a sometimes complicated process. Below you will find information about other organizations that may offer assistance.

Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
The PAF is a national nonprofit organization that supports cancer patients and cancer survivors with services such as education, referrals, and legal counseling concerning managed care, insurance, financial issues, job discrimination, and debt crisis matters.
Web site: www.patientadvocate.org
Telephone: 1–800–532–5274

The National Cancer Institute (NCI)
The National Cancer Institute is the Federal government’s principal agency for cancer research and training. The NCI offers valuable information in relation to patient support, finance and insurance, along with home and hospice care.
Web site: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/support
Telephone: 1–800–4–CANCER

The National Patient Travel Helpline
The National Patient Travel Helpline provides support for those traveling long-distance with medical needs. This is a valuable source for charitable air transportation and may provide referrals to all appropriate sources of help.
Web site: www.patienttravel.org
Telephone: 1–800–296–1217

Cancer Survivors Online
Cancer Survivors Online is a valuable resource for those recently diagnosed with cancer. The site provides patient resources like general cancer information, support contacts, and information on how to cope physically, emotionally, and financially.
Web site: www.cancersurvivors.org