The staff of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF) recognizes that a diagnosis of cancer is overwhelming and far-reaching. In order to assist our patients during this challenging time, our financial counselor is an integral part of the PAMF multidisciplinary team that helps our patients plan for the financial aspects of their diagnosis. With a financial plan in place, patients can then concentrate their energies on treatment.

There are national and local organizations whose mission or charter involves helping people with cancer with different areas of their lives. Similarly, government programs exist so that uninsured or underinsured individuals with certain cancers can be immediately enrolled in state health insurance plans. Likewise, some pharmaceutical companies provide grants and assistance with the costs of medication. If the treatment of your illness affects your ability to work, you need to file for state disability insurance. You may be able supplement your income (based on your previous year's earnings) for up to 52 weeks.

Your PAMF Cancer Care team will work together to help generate resources and facilitate your referrals to organizations or companies that will help you with cancer-related treatment expenses.

Some of the services provided by our financial Counselor include:

• Assisting with completing important paperwork.
  
• Creating an individualized financial plan, with regard to the patient's anticipated costs, deductibles, copays, etc. for which he or she is responsible based on the patient's diagnosis and chosen treatment modalities
  
• Monitoring the patient's account and tracking the status of financial assistance obtained
  
• Communicating with relevant PAMF departments that are involved in the patient's care (such as Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Pharmacy, Patient Accounting, etc.) as needed

If patients are unable to pay for their medical expenses and meet the low-income or moderate-income requirements, they may also qualify for financial assistance through PAMF. Please speak with our financial counselor at your earliest opportunity regarding your medical debt. You may qualify for Medi-Cal, Medicare or other government programs.

At the PAMF Cancer Care Clinic, it is our goal to help you concentrate on your health, as well as empower you and reduce stress with a thoughtful, manageable financial plan.

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