Resources and Links

Patient Assistance Programs

The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers programs that help cancer patients, family members, and friends cope with the treatment decisions and emotional challenges they face.
1-800-492-0329
www.cancer.org

CancerCare is a national nonprofit agency that offers free support, information, financial assistance, and practical help to people with cancer and their loved ones. Financial assistance is given in the form of limited grants for certain treatment expenses.
1-800-813-4673

Chronic Disease Fund (CDF) is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization that helps underinsured patients with chronic disease, cancers or life-altering conditions obtain the expensive medications they need.
(972) 712-0201
http://cdfund.org/

The Healthwell Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization that helps individuals afford prescription medications they are taking for specific illnesses. The Foundation provides financial assistance to eligible patients to cover certain out-of-pocket health care costs.
1-800-675-8416
www.healthwellfoundation.org

Imerman Angels is a one-on-on cancer support service that partners a person fighting cancer (“fighter”) with someone who’s beaten the same type of cancer (“survivor”).
www.imermanangels.org

National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Financial Assistance and Other Resources for People With Cancer Listing of Government agencies, organizations, and programs that are designed to provide assistance for cancer patients and their families.
www.cancer.gov/

Partnership for Prescription Assistance 
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance brings together America’s pharmaceutical companies, doctors, other health care providers, patient advocacy organizations and community groups to help qualifying patients who lack prescription coverage get the medicines they need through the public or private program that’s right for them. Many will get them free or nearly free.
1-888-477-2669
www.pparx.org/about.php

Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN)
Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit established in 2004, dedicated to assisting patients who cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs associated with their treatment needs. With 20 disease-specific funds, PAN assists the underinsured in accessing health care treatments.
866-316-PANF (7263)
https://www.panfoundation.org/

Patient Advocate Foundation
Patient Advocate Foundation is a national non-profit organization that seeks to safeguard patients through effective mediation assuring access to care, maintenance of employment and preservation of their financial stability relative to their diagnosis of life threatening or debilitating diseases.
1-800-532-5274
http://www.patientadvocate.org/

FDA Option for Physicians to Request Individual Patient Expanded Access for use of Investigational Drug
fda.gov

Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit organization that provides cancer survivorship education, beyond diagnosis, to patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals, through educational events, a speakers bureau, and online materials and resources.
www.TriageCancer.org

Co-Pay Assistance for Patients

Many organizations can help you with your co-payments, we have provided a list for your convenience.

American Cancer Society
www.cancer.org/
250 Williams Street
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-320-3333 (Responds to calls in English only)
1-800-227-2345 (1-800-ACS-2345) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization. The ACS offers a variety of services and programs for patients and their families. The ACS also supports research, provides printed materials, and conducts educational programs. Staff can accept calls and distribute publications in Spanish.

Benefits.gov
www.benefits.gov/
1-800-333-4636 (1-800-FED-INFO) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)

Benefits.gov (formerly GovBenefits.gov) is the official benefits Web site of the U.S. Government. The Web site is designed to help users find government benefit and assistance programs for which they may be eligible. The Benefit Finder on the Web site has a list of Core Questions to identify which government benefits you may be eligible to receive.

Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
www.cancerfac.org/

The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC) is a coalition of organizations that help cancer patients manage their financial challenges by educating them about existing resources. Patients or health care providers can search the CFAC database for organizations that help with specific cancer diagnoses or that provide a specific type of assistance or need. CFAC is a coalition of organizations and cannot respond to individual requests for financial assistance via e-mail or telephone. Patients may contact each CFAC member organization individually for guidance and possible financial assistance.

CancerCare
www.cancercare.org
275 Seventh Avenue, 22nd Floor
New York, NY 10001
212-712-8400 (Administrative)
1-800-813-4673 (1-800-813-HOPE) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: info@cancercare.org

CancerCare provides free professional support for anyone affected by cancer. CancerCare programs include counseling and support groups, cancer education workshops, information on financial assistance, and practical help. Counseling is provided by oncology social workers and is available over the phone and face-to-face (available at offices in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, and Connecticut). Support groups are offered online, via telephone, and in face-to-face groups. CancerCare also provides free publications, some in Spanish.

Some financial assistance may be available to women with cancer for cancer-related costs such as transportation to and from cancer treatment, child care, and home care. At this time, only limited assistance is available for men with cancer. For details about eligibility, available funding and how to apply, visit the website or call the toll-free number. A section of the CancerCare Web site is available in Spanish.

CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation
http://cancercarecopay.org/
275 Seventh Avenue, 22nd Floor
New York, NY 10001
212-601-9750 (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
1-866-552-6729 (1-866-55-COPAY) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: information@cancercarecopay.org

The CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation was established to address the needs of individuals who cannot afford their insurance co-payments to cover the cost of medications for treating cancer. Specifically, the Foundation assists patients who have been prescribed an oral or intravenous medication (chemotherapy), but are unable to afford the out-of-pocket costs or co-payment responsibility required by the insurer or Medicare. The amount of assistance that people receive depends on factors such as income, amount of funding available, insurance coverage, and the actual co-payments that will be incurred within 1 year. The types of cancer and the medications covered by the Foundation change; for the latest information on available funding contact the Foundation or visit the Web site below.

Children’s Health Insurance Program
www.insurekidsnow.gov
1-877-543-7669 (1-877-KIDS-NOW) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: CMSOCHIPRAQuestions@cms.hhs.gov

The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a state and federal partnership that provides free or low-cost health coverage for children age 18 and younger whose families earn too much income to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford to purchase private health insurance coverage. States have considerable flexibility to establish income eligibility rules for CHIP, but children enrolling in the program must be otherwise uninsured. Callers will be referred to the CHIP program in their state for further information about what the program covers, who is eligible, and the minimum qualifications.

Co-Pay Assistance Program
www.lls.org/#/diseaseinformation/getinformationsupport/financialmatters/copayassistance/
Post Office Box 12268
Newport News, VA 23612
1-877-557-2672 (1-877-LLS-COPAY) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: copay@lls.org

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Co-Pay Assistance Program offers financial assistance to patients in meeting their private insurance or Medicare premiums, and co-pays for prescription medication and allowable treatment costs. Only certain blood cancer diagnoses are covered by this program and they are subject to change check the Co-pay Web site for the latest information. Prescription insurance coverage is required to qualify for this program.

Colorectal CareLine
www.colorectalcareline.org/
421 Butler Farm Road
Hampton, VA 23666
1-866-657-8634, option 1 (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: CCL@patientadvocate.org

The Patient Advocate Foundation’s Colorectal CareLine is a patient/provider hotline designed to provide assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and are seeking education and access to care. The Colorectal CareLine is staffed by a team of clinical case managers with both nursing and social work backgrounds who provide individualized service to colorectal cancer patients, their caregivers, and providers who are seeking information and/or assistance. Staff can help with direct appeals assistance, referrals and linkage to educational resources, referrals to co-payment programs, referrals to local, state, and/or national resources for financial assistance, and case management services to uninsured patients.

GoodDays
www.gooddaysfromcdf.org/

Good Days exists to improve the health and quality of life of patients with chronic disease, cancer, or other life-altering conditions. The cost of medications to treat chronic disease can be staggering, adding to the despair and suffering of these patients. At Good Days, our mission is to ensure no one has to choose between getting the medication they need and affording the necessities of everyday living.

Health Insurance Assistance Service
www.cancer.org/
404-320-3333 (Responds to calls in English only)
1-800-227-2345 (1-800-ACS-2345) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)

The Health Insurance Assistance Service (HIAS/ACS) aids cancer patients and survivors who have lost or are in danger of losing their health care coverage, and identifies policy solutions to help others in similar situations. Cancer patients and survivors who call the ACS cancer information number are connected with health insurance specialists who can provide information about consumer protections and health insurance options to address their needs.

Healthcare.gov
www.healthcare.gov
200 Independence Avenue, SW.
Washington, DC 20201

HealthCare.gov is the first U.S. Department of Health and Human Services central database of health coverage options, combining information about public programs (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid) with information from more than 1,000 private insurance plans. Consumers can search online for health insurance options specific to their life situation and local community. Healthcare.gov also has information about the Affordable Care Act (health care reform). The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, a new program that is part of the Affordable Care Act, makes health insurance coverage available to persons who have been denied coverage by private insurance companies because of a pre-existing condition. Consumers also have access to quality rankings for hospitals via a Hospital Compare interactive Web tool. In the fall of 2010, price estimates for health insurance plans will be available online and all new health insurance plans will be required to cover evidence-based preventive services, including screenings and vaccinations, at no cost.

HealthWell Foundation
www.healthwellfoundation.org/
Post Office Box 4133
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
1-800-675-8416 (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: info@healthwellfoundation.org

The HealthWell Foundation provides full or partial financial assistance to eligible individuals who cannot afford their insurance copayments, premiums, deductibles for certain treatments, and other out-of-pocket health care expenses. To qualify for assistance, you must meet the Foundation’s insurance, income, and medical criteria. The Foundation will pre-screen over the telephone and if you qualify you will be sent an application. Another option is to answer a few questions online to immediately learn if you qualify for assistance. The Foundation provides assistance for numerous diseases and medications. A full list of the diseases and medications covered is provided on the Foundation’s Web site. The amount of assistance you receive will depend on your income, your insurance coverage, the amount of funding the Foundation has available for assistance, and other factors.

LIVESTRONG
www.livestrong.org
1-855-220-7777 (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)

LIVESTRONG (formerly Lance Armstrong Foundation) helps anyone affected by cancer; patients, caregivers, family members, and friends. LIVESTRONG provides free, confidential support through education, referrals, and counseling services to help patients and their loved ones manage the physical, emotional, and practical effects of cancer. Call or visit the website to be connected with a LIVESTRONG navigator who can refer you to appropriate programs and resources. Support services include peer to peer matching, counseling, managing financial and insurance concerns, and locating local support groups.

Medicaid (Medical Assistance)
www.medicaid.gov/index.html
7500 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21244
1-877-267-2323 (Responds to calls in English only)

Medicaid (Medical Assistance) is a jointly funded, Federal-State health insurance program for low-income individuals and families who fit into an eligibility group that is recognized by federal and state law. Although the Federal Government establishes general guidelines for the program, Medicaid is a state-administered program, and each state sets its own guidelines regarding eligibility and services. Information about coverage is available from local state welfare offices, state health departments, state social service agencies, or the state Medicaid office. The Vaccines for Children Program (VCP) provides immunization services for children 18 and under who are Medicaid eligible, uninsured, underinsured, and receiving immunizations through a Federally Qualified Health Center or Rural Health Clinic, or are Native American or Alaska Native. Spanish-speaking staff are available in some offices.

Additional Resources:
Additional State Benefit Programs www.benefits.gov/benefits/
State Medicaid Offices www.benefits.gov/benefits/browse-by-category

Medicare
www.medicare.gov
7500 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21244
1-800-633-4227 (1-800-MEDICARE) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)

Medicare is a Federal Government health insurance program that is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare is health insurance for people age 65 or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease. Medicare is divided into four parts. Parts A, B, C, and D. Part A is Hospital Insurance and helps pay for inpatient hospital care and care at nursing facilities, hospice, and home health care services. Part B is Medical Insurance and covers doctor services, outpatient care, and some preventive services. Part C is the Medicare Advantage Plans, which allow you to get Medicare benefits through private companies approved by and under contract with Medicare (includes Part A, Part B, and usually other benefits Medicare doesn’t cover). Most plans also provide prescription drug coverage. Part D is Prescription Drug Coverage and is run by private companies approved by Medicare. Medicare reimburses patient care costs for its beneficiaries who participate in clinical trials designed to diagnose or treat cancer. To receive information on eligibility, explanations of coverage, and related publications, call Medicare or visit their Web site. Some publications are available in Spanish.

National Association of Insurance Commissioners
www.naic.org/
2301 McGee Street Suite 800
Kansas City, MO 64108
816-783-8500 (Help Desk) (Responds to calls in English only)
1-866-470-6242 (1-866-470-NAIC) (Responds to calls in English and Spanish)
Email: help@naic.org

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is the organization of insurance regulators from the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the 5 U.S. territories. A state insurance regulator’s primary responsibilities are to educate the public about insurance and protect the interests of insurance consumers, and the NAIC helps regulators fulfill that obligation. NAIC assists people who do not have insurance and also fields insurance complaints. NAIC has a Consumer Information Source (CIS) tool on its Web site that provides information on insurance companies that you can review before purchasing insurance. You can obtain information such as closed insurance complaints, licensing information, and key financial data. The Internet address for the CIS tool is listed in the Additional Resources section. Through its award-winning Insure U consumer-education program, the NAIC helps consumers evaluate their options and get smart about insurance. The Insure U Web site provides basic information on the major types of insurance: life, health, auto, and homeowners/renter’s insurance.

Patient Access Network
www.panfoundation.org/
Email: contact@panfoundation.org
PO Box 221858
Charlotte, NC 28222
866-316-PANF (7263)

The Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing help and hope to people with chronic or life-threatening illnesses for whom cost limits access to critical medical treatments.

The National Children’s Cancer Society
www.thenccs.org/
One South Memorial Drive Suite 800
St. Louis, MO 63102
314-241-1600 (General) (Responds to calls in English only)
1-800-532-6459 (1-800-5-FAMILY) (Responds to calls in English only)
Email: pbeck@children-cancer.org

The National Children’s Cancer Society (NCCS) strives to improve the quality of life for children with cancer and their families worldwide. The NCCS provides support through four programs: Pediatric Oncology Program (offers direct financial support), Care to Share Cancer Connection Program (Internet support network for families), Global Outreach Program (distributes donated cancer-related pharmaceuticals), and Beyond The Cure (helps childhood cancer survivors integrate the cancer experience into their new lives). The Pediatric Oncology Program financial support includes meals during treatment, transportation to and from treatment, long distance telephone cards, lodging during treatment, health insurance premiums, and medical expenses not covered by insurance. The application for financial assistance is available in both English and Spanish. In addition, NCCS offers free publications for order or download from their Web site, as well as access to helpful videos and educational telephone conferences.

Patient Advocate Foundation
www.patientadvocate.org/
421 Butler Farm Road
Hampton, VA 23666
1-800-532-5274 (Responds to calls in English only)
Email: help@patientadvocate.org

The Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) provides professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life-threatening, and debilitating illnesses. PAF case managers (assisted by doctors and health care attorneys) serve as liaisons between the patient and their insurer, employer, and/or creditors to resolve insurance, job retention, and/or debt crisis matters as they relate to the patient’s diagnosis. The PAF seeks to safeguard patients through effective mediation to ensure access to care, maintenance of employment, and preservation of financial stability. PAF publications on health-related topics are available online and in hard copy. PAF has a Scholarship for Survivors program and awards scholarships to individuals under the age of 25 that are or have been diagnosed with cancer or a critical or life-threatening disease.

Sisters Network, Inc.
www.sistersnetworkinc.org/
2922 Rosedale Street
Houston, TX 77004
713-781-0255 (Responds to calls in English only)
1-866-781-1808 (Responds to calls in English only)
Email: infonet@sistersnetworkinc.org

Sisters Network Inc. (SNI) is a national African American breast cancer survivorship organization that addresses the breast health needs of African American women through its affiliate chapters and partnerships with existing service providers. Sisters Network has a breast cancer assistance program (B-CAP) that provides assistance to women facing financial challenges after diagnosis. The program provides financial assistance for mammograms, copays, office visits, prescriptions, and medical-related lodging and transportation. An application form to apply for assistance may be obtained by calling or sending in a request via e-mail.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program
https://www.medicare.gov/
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
7500 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21244

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a state program funded by the Federal government to provide information, referrals, and counseling to Medicare recipients and their families/caregivers. Specifically, SHIP counselors provide information on Medigap policies, long-term care insurance, Medicare health plan choices, Medicare rights and protections, and assistance with filing an appeal. The programs in each state often have different names but they all have the same purpose. Services may be received on the telephone or in face-to-face counseling sessions. SHIP counselors are available in every state and in several territories. To find a SHIP counselor, go to the Web site listed in the URL field above. On the left side of the page, under “Search by Organization Name” you can select SHIP State Health Insurance Assistance Program and then select a state or territory from the “Choose a State/Territory” option. Inquirers may also ask their doctor, social worker, or pharmacist about eligibility for other programs.

Surviving And Moving Forward: The SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors of Cancer
www.thesamfund.org/
c/o The Nonprofit Center
89 South Street, LL 02
Boston, MA 02211
617-938-3484 (Responds to calls in English only)
1-866-439-9365 (Responds to calls in English only)
Email: info@thesamfund.org

Surviving And Moving Forward: The SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors of Cancer assists cancer survivors in the United States between the ages of 17 and 35 with their transition into a successful posttreatment life. The foundation distributes grants and scholarships in an effort to enable survivors to pursue their educational or professional goals, as well as to help pay for living, job search, and lingering medical expenses. Examples of expenses covered include a wide range of posttreatment financial needs such as undergraduate and graduate tuition and loans, car and health insurance premiums, rent, utilities, current and residual medical bills, fertility-related expenses, gym memberships, and transportation costs. Funds may not be available to all that apply. The SAMFund also offers outreach and information about the post-recovery transition to those approaching the end of treatment.

UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation
www.uhccf.org/
MN012-S286
Post Office Box 41
Minneapolis, MN 55440
952-992-4459 (Leave a message) (Responds to calls in English only)

The UnitedHealthcare Children’s Foundation is a nonprofit charity dedicated to improving access to medical-related services for children who have medical needs that are not fully covered by their insurance. The Foundation provides financial assistance in the form of a medical grant to be used for medical services for children (16 years and younger) not covered or not completely covered by commercial health plans.

Pharmaceutical Company Patient Assistance Programs

Some pharmaceutical companies offer prescription drug programs to make specific drugs available to people who could not otherwise afford them. Generally, your doctor must apply to these programs on your behalf. However, you can call and obtain the applications and information to help speed the process. Eligibility requirements and program operations vary greatly from one program to another.

Following are listings of pharmaceutical company patient assistance programs for some of the drugs commonly used by people with lung cancer.

Amgen, Inc. – Amgen’s patient assistance programs are a continuum of services designed to provide access through free goods and other support services to qualifying uninsured and under-insured patients. In addition, Amgen makes donations to third-party co-pay assistance foundations. To enroll, please call the appropriate hotline number listed below or learn more about available programs by choosing a product from the menu below.
1-800-272-9376
www.amgen.com/patients/assistance.html

Bayer Corporation – The Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals patient assistance program offers free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications. Patients must meet financial and other program specific criteria to be eligible for assistance. To find out how to apply for medication assistance register for free at www.RxAssist.org.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company – The Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization. The Foundation was established in 1998 to provide temporary assistance to qualifying patients with a financial hardship who generally have no private prescription drug insurance and are not enrolled in a prescription drug coverage plan through Medicaid or any other federal, state or local health program.
1-800-736-0003
www.bmspaf.org/
www.cancercare.org/get_help/assistance/cc_financial.php

Celgene Patient Support- Celgene Patient Support® provides free and personalized assistance for patients’ access and reimbursement needs.
1-800-931-8631
www.CelgenePatientSupport.com

Eli Lilly and Company, Lilly Oncology – For Gemzar® and Alimta®, Lilly provides assistance with obtaining reimbursement. If patients do not have insurance and are unable to obtain other financial assistance, they may be eligible to obtain Lilly oncology products through our patient assistance program. For information about obtaining reimbursement assistance and patient assistance, visit:
https://www.lillyoncologysupport.com/hcp

Genentech, Inc. – Genentech Access Solutions helps patients access their medicines and explore possible solutions to coverage or reimbursement issues. For patients and their health care providers, Genentech Access Solutions provides: coverage and reimbursement, patient assistance, and informational resources. Call (866) 4 ACCESS / (866) 422-2377 between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PST Monday through Friday or 24/7 through our website https://www.genentech-access.com

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) – “GSK For You” features information on patient assistance programs from other resources, too. Please browse our site to see if you may be eligible to save on your prescription drugs. GSK is here to assist you with your prescription drug coverage needs.
1-888-825-5249
www.gskforyou.com/

MedImmune, Inc. – The MedImmune, Inc. patient assistance program offers free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications. Patients must meet financial and other program specific criteria to be eligible for assistance. To find out how to apply for medication assistance from the MedImmune, Inc., register at www.RxAssist.org.

Merck Patient Assistance Program – Sometimes, affording prescription medicines can be difficult. That’s why at Merck, we have created the Patient Assistance Program—to keep affordable medicines within your reach. This private and confidential program provides medicine free of charge to eligible individuals, primarily the uninsured who, without our assistance, could not afford needed Merck medicines.
1-800-727-5400
www.merck.com/merckhelps/patientassistance/home.html

Novartis Pharmaceuticals –Novartis Oncology Reimbursement Program PAP Enrollment –Novartis is committed to providing access to our medications for those most in need through the Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation’s Patient Assistance Program (PAP). PAP provides assistance to patients experiencing financial hardship who have no third party insurance coverage for their medicines.
1-800-277-2254
https://www.novartis.us/our-products/patient-assistance/patient-assistance-foundation-enrollment

Ortho Biotech Products – The OrthoBiotech Products patient assistance program offers free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications. Patients must meet financial and other program specific criteria to be eligible for assistance. To find out how to apply for medication assistance from the OrthoBiotech Products register at www.RxAssist.org.

Purdue Pharma – The Purdue Pharma patient assistance program offers free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications. Patients must meet financial and other program specific criteria to be eligible for assistance. To find out how to apply for medication assistance from the Purdue Pharma patient assistance program, at www.RxAssist.org.

Sanofi-aventis – The sanofi-aventis patient assistance program offers free medication to people who otherwise cannot afford their medications. Patients must meet financial and other program specific criteria to be eligible for assistance. To find out how to apply for medication assistance from the sanofi-aventis patient assistance program, register for free at www.RxAssist.org.

Takeda
Takeda is a patient-focused, innovation-driven global pharmaceutical company that builds on a distinguished 235-year history, aspiring to bring better health and a brighter future for people worldwide.
https://www.takeda.com/en-us/corporate-responsibility/patient-assistance/

Consumer Government Resources

Americans with Disabilities Act Information Line
800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TDD)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov

Consumer Health Information Research
816-228-4595

Department of Justice
www.usdoj.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
For questions:
800-669-4000 (voice) or 800-669-6820 (TDD)
To request documents:
800-669-3362 (voice) or 800-800-3302 (TDD)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Office of Special Health Issues
Parklawn Building, HF-12
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD
800-FDA-1088
www.fda.gov
Contact the FDA to report side effects or other problems with drug treatment.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Single Patient Investigational New Drug Program
Patients who are not eligible for a clinical trial and who are in an immediate medical crisis may be able to receive drugs that are not yet FDA-approved. Your doctor would have to apply to the FDA for permission to use the drug, an approval known as a Single Patient IND for Compassionate or Emergency Use. Contact information appears below. The FDA usually responds to an application within 24 to 48 hours.
CDER Oncology Drug Products (most cancer drugs): 301-594-2473
CBER Oncology Branch (for biologicals): 301-827-5093
www.fda.gov/cder/cancer/singleIND.htm

FDA Voices
Internet address:  https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/FDAVoices/ucm628487.htm
We believe patients are experts when it comes to their health conditions. Ultimately, they’re the ones who can share aspects of their diseases that even our most qualified doctors and scientists couldn’t possibly know.

Food and Nutrition Information Center
National Agricultural Library/USDA
10301 Baltimore Avenue, Room 304
Beltsville, MD 20705-2351
www.nal.usda.gov/food-and-nutrition
This site provides a dietary supplement resource list.

Medicare Equipment and Supplies Program
Medicare contract suppliers or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine Clearinghouse
888-644-6226
www.nccam.nih.gov
You can request free information either on-line or by phone.

National Council Against Health Fraud
909-824-4690

National Digestive Diseases Info Clearinghouse
301-654-3810
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases
You can request free information either on-line or by phone.

National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
301-656-0003
www.nfid.org

National Institutes of Health
301-496-1776
www.nih.gov

National Library of Medicine
www.nlm.nih.gov

Social Security Disability Line
800-772-1213

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
www.healthfinder.com

Resources for Kids

CancerCare for Kids®
www.cancercare.org/get_help/special_progs/cc_for_kids.php
Children and teens who are affected by cancer have special needs and concerns. That?s why CancerCare has a special program called CancerCare for Kids?. It?s all part of the free, professional services CancerCare provides, but focused on the particular needs of children and parents.

Camp Kesem
http://campkesem.org
Since 2000, Camp Kesem has given children affected by a parent?s cancer the opportunity to just be kids. The ever-expanding Kesem community engages in camp activities like sports, arts and crafts, and drama to give campers a fun-filled week.

Children’s Treehouse Foundation
childrenstreehousefdn.org
It’s a given. Cancer affects the entire family. Yet in too many situations, the undeniable psychosocial impact on the children whose parent has cancer goes unattended.

Cancer Hope Network
877-HOPENET (877-467-3638) or 908-879-4039
www.cancerhopenetwork.org
Cancer Hope Network is a nonprofit organization that offers one-on-one support for people living with cancer and their families by matching those seeking support with trained volunteers who been through similar experiences.

Cancer Support Community
888-793-WELL (888-793-9355) or 513-421-7111
http://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/
The Cancer Support Community is an international non-profit dedicated to providing support, education and hope to people affected by cancer. Likely the largest employer of psychosocial oncology mental health professionals in the United States, CSC offers a menu of personalized services and education for all people affected by cancer.

State Medicaid Programs

Alabama
http://medicaid.alabama.gov/ 
Welcome to the Alabama Medicaid Agency! Medicaid is a state/federal program that pays for medical and long-term care services for low-income pregnant women, children, certain people on Medicare, individuals with disabilities and nursing home residents. These individuals must meet certain income and other requirements.

Alaska
https://dhss.alaska.gov/health/dhcs/Pages/medicaid_medicare/default.aspx
Medicaid, an entitlement program created by the federal government, is the primary public program for financing basic health and long-term care services for low-income Alaskans. It is funded fifty percent by federal funds and fifty percent by State general funds. The program focuses on coverage for low-income children, pregnant women, families, the elderly, blind and the permanently disabled. The federal government establishes guidelines that requires the state to cover specific categories of people and types of benefits. It is, however, the legislature’s responsibility to determine which services are to be covered, the qualifying standards and the categories of people who will be eligible for benefits under the Medicaid program. Within these guidelines and constraints, the Department of Health Services has considerable flexibility in establishing financial eligibility criteria, benefit packages and payment policies.

Arizona
http://www.azahcccs.gov/
Welcome to Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is Arizona’s Medicaid agency that offers health care programs to serve Arizona residents. Individuals must meet certain income and other requirements to obtain services.

Arkansas
https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/medical-services/
Medicaid is a program that helps pay for medically necessary medical services for needy and low-income persons. It uses state and federal government money. The Department of Human Services (DHS) runs the Medicaid program in Arkansas. Medicaid and Medicare are different programs. Medicare is federal health insurance. It pays for medical services for aged and disabled persons.

California
www.dhcs.ca.gov/Pages/default.aspx
What is Medi-Cal? Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid health care program. This program pays for a variety of medical services for children and adults with limited income and resources. Medi-Cal is supported by federal and state taxes.

Colorado
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/hcpf/colorado-medicaid
Colorado Medicaid is public health insurance for families, children, pregnant women, persons who are blind or persons with disabilities and the elderly for Colorado residents.

Connecticut
http://portal.ct.gov/dss/Services/Health-and-Home-Care
The Medicaid program provides for remedial, preventive, and long term medical care for income eligible aged, blind or disabled individuals, and families with children. Payment is made directly to health care providers, by the department, for services delivered to eligible individuals. The program complies with federal Medicaid law (Title XIX of the Social Security Act) and regulations in order to receive 50% reimbursement from the federal government.

Delaware
http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/medicaid.html
Medicaid furnishes medical assistance to eligible low-income families and to eligible aged, blind and/or disabled people whose income is insufficient to meet the cost of necessary medical services. Medicaid pays for: doctor visits, hospital care, labs, prescription drugs, transportation, routine shots for children, mental health and substance abuse services.

Florida
http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/access-florida-food-medical-assistance-cash/medicaid
Medicaid provides Medical coverage to low income individuals and families. The state and federal government share the costs of the Medicaid program. Medicaid services in Florida are administered by the Agency for Health Care Administration.

Georgia
https://medicaid.georgia.gov/
As the largest division in Community Health, Medicaid Division administers the Medicaid program, which provides health care for children, pregnant women, and people who are aging, blind and disabled.

Hawaii
http://hawaii.gov/health/disability-services/neurotrauma/key-services-medical.html
Medicare is our Nation’s basic health insurance program for people 65 and older, regardless of their income, who qualify for Social Security benefits, and for some people under 65 who are disabled.

Idaho
http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Default.aspx?TabId=123
Medicaid has different programs available that provide health coverage for: Children under age 19; Parents or other related adults with children under age 19; Pregnant women; Women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer or pre-cancer; People aged 65 or older; People who are blind or disabled (using Social Security criteria).

Illinois
https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=30359
Welcome to the Web site for Healthcare and Family Services, the state agency dedicated to improving the lives of Illinois families through healthcare coverage and child support services. Our mission is to empower Illinois residents to lead healthier and more independent lives by providing adequate access to healthcare coverage at a reasonable cost, and by establishing and enforcing child support obligations. We are proud to make a positive difference in the lives of Illinoisans.

Indiana
http://member.indianamedicaid.com/
Welcome to Indiana Medicaid. On this site, you can learn about the different Medicaid programs and how to apply. Check out our Eligibility Guide to learn about eligibility for certain programs and see if you may qualify. Current Members can learn about your rights and responsibilities and how to access services. Check out the Member Rights and Responsibilities for critical member information.

Iowa
https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/welcome-iowa-medicaid 
Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) is the division of the Iowa Department of Human Services that administers the Medicaid program. This website will inform you about the IME, Provider resources and Member resources.

Kansas
https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare
The Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) is responsible for purchasing health services for children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, the aged, and the elderly through the Medicaid program, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the state-funded MediKan program.

Kentucky
https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx
Kentucky Medicaid Member Information Page: This is the Kentucky Medicaid Member Information page. Listed below are some frequently asked questions and information regarding member services.

Louisiana
http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/subhome/1/n/331
Medicaid is the state’s health coverage program for low-income residents who meet certain eligibility qualifications.

Maine
http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oms/
Office of MaineCare Services. The Office of MaineCare Services (OMS) oversees: MaineCare (also known as Medicaid); Maine RX Plus; Drugs for the Elderly and Disabled. MaineCare Services coordinates the programs and benefits, assures that they operate under consistent policy in keeping with the Department’s goals and Federal mandates, and ensures that they are administered effectively and efficiently.

Maryland
https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/shop-and-compare/medicaid-basics-and-benefits/
Welcome to Maryland Medical Programs, the State of Maryland’s health information resource. Brought to you be the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH).

Massachusetts
http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/masshealth/
What is MassHealth? MassHealth is a public health insurance program for eligible low and medium-income residents of Massachusetts. MassHealth is the name used in Massachusetts for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), combined in one program.

Michigan
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/medicaid 
The Plan covers Michigan’s agreement with the federal government for: beneficiary eligibility; covered services; and, reimbursement for medical services under the program.

Minnesota
http://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/health-care/health-care-programs/programs-and-services/medical-assistance.jsp
Medical Assistance (MA) is the largest of Minnesota’s publicly funded health care programs. It provided coverage for a monthly average of 733,000 low-income people in state fiscal year 2012. Three-fourths of those were children and families, pregnant women and adults without children. The others were people 65 or older and people who have disabilities. Most enrollees get their health care through health plans. The rest get care on a fee-for-service basis, with providers billing the state directly for services provided. MA is Minnesota’s Medicaid program, funded with state and federal funds. The Minnesota Department of Human Services oversees the program statewide.

Mississippi
http://www.medicaid.ms.gov/
Medicaid is a national health care program. It helps pay for medical services for low-income people. For those eligible for full Medicaid services, Medicaid is paid to providers of health care. Providers are doctors, hospitals and pharmacists who accept Medicaid.

Missouri
https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/
MO HealthNet coverage is automatically available to all recipients of MO HealthNet, Nursing Care, Home and Community-based Services, Supplemental Aid to the Blind, Blind Pension, and Adult Supplemental Payments. The purpose of the MO HealthNet program is to provide medical services to persons who meet certain eligibility requirements as determined by FSD. The goals of the MO HealthNet program are to promote good health, to prevent illness and premature death, to correct or limit disability, to treat illness, and to provide rehabilitation to persons with disabilities. Eligible persons receive a MO HealthNet Identification Card or a letter from the local FSD office.

Montana
https://dphhs.mt.gov/montanahealthcareprograms/memberservices
Montana Medicaid is health care coverage for some low-income adults. Medicaid is run by DPHHS (the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services).
Healthy Montana Kids Plus (HMK Plus) used to be called children’s Medicaid, before October 1, 2009. HMK Plus is health care coverage for low-income children in Montana and is also run by DPHHS. All medically necessary services are provided to children covered by HMK Plus.

Nebraska
http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Medicaid-Eligibility.aspx
Nebraska Medicaid covers many medically necessary services from health providers who participate in the Nebraska Medicaid program. Some preventive services, such as well child check-ups and childhood vaccines, are also covered.

Nevada
http://dhhs.nv.gov/Find_Assistance/Medical_Assistance/
The Division of Health Care Financing and Policy (DHCFP) works in partnership with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to assist in providing quality medical care for eligible individuals and families with low incomes and limited resources. The medical programs are known as Medicaid and Nevada Check Up.

New Hampshire
http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/ombp/medicaid/index.htm
NH Medicaid is a federal and state funded health care program that serves a wide range of needy individuals and families who meet certain eligibility requirements. The program works to ensure that eligible adults and children have access to needed health care services by enrolling and paying providers to deliver covered services to eligible recipients.

New Jersey
http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dmahs/clients/medicaid/
Medicaid provides health insurance to parents/caretakers and dependent children, pregnant women, and people who are aged, blind or disabled. These programs pay for hospital services, doctor visits, prescriptions, nursing home care and other healthcare needs, depending on what program a person is eligible for.

New Mexico
http://www.hsd.state.nm.us/
Medicaid is a partnership between each state and the federal government to provide low cost or no cost medical care to those who need it most. Eligibility for all Medicaid programs is based on citizenship, residency, income and other factors (such as resource levels, medical factors and sometimes, an individual’s current health insurance coverage status). Income eligibility for all Medicaid programs is based on a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

New York
http://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/
Medicaid is a program for New Yorkers who can’t afford to pay for medical care.

North Carolina
https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/medicaid
Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income individuals and families who cannot afford health care costs. Medicaid serves low-income parents, children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Medicaid is a little different, depending on who you are and your situation.

North Dakota
http://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/medicalserv/medicaid/
Medicaid was authorized in 1966 for the purpose of providing an effective base upon which to provide comprehensive and uniform medical services that enable persons previously limited by their circumstances to receive needed medical care. It is within this broad concept that the Medicaid Program in North Dakota participates with the medical community in attempting to strengthen existing medical services in the state.
Funding is shared by federal and state governments, with eligibility determined at the county level.
Medicaid pays for health services for qualifying families with children, and people who are pregnant, elderly, or disabled. Over 60,000 people in North Dakota are receiving this important health coverage.

Ohio
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/
Launched in July 2013, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) is Ohio’s first Executive-level Medicaid agency. With a network of approximately 130,000 active providers, ODM delivers health care coverage to more than 2.9 million residents of Ohio on a daily basis. Working closely with stakeholders, advocates, medical professionals, and fellow state agencies, the agency continues to find new ways to modernize Medicaid in Ohio.

Oklahoma
http://www.okhca.org/
SoonerCare, Oklahoma’s Medicaid program, provides health care to children under the age of 19, adults with children under the age of 18, pregnant women and people who are older than 65 or have blindness or another disability.

Oregon
http://www.oregon.gov/oha/healthplan/Pages/index.aspx
Medicaid provides health care insurance for low-income residents through a federal and state partnership. Federal regulations provide a framework for each state to build a unique Medicaid program or State Medicaid Plan.

Pennsylvania
https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Medical-Assistance.aspx
Medical Assistance, also known as Medicaid, and sometimes referred to as MA, pays for health care services for eligible individuals

Rhode Island
http://www.dhs.ri.gov/Programs/index.php
The Rhode Island Medical Assistance Program, also known as “Medicaid” is a federal- and state-funded program that pays for medical and health related services for eligible Rhode Islanders.

South Carolina
https://www.scdhhs.gov/site-page/medicaid
Medicaid is South Carolina’s aid program by which the federal and state governments share the cost of providing medical care for needy persons who have low income.

South Dakota
http://dss.sd.gov/medicaid/
The Department of Social Services Division of Economic Assistance is responsible for administering the Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance (CHIP) Programs to help low income individuals, families and children.

Tennessee
https://www.tn.gov/tenncare/members-applicants/eligibility/tenncare-medicaid.html
The Medicaid program provides medical benefits to eligible individuals who may have no medical insurance or inadequate medical insurance. Medicaid became law in 1965 as a jointly funded cooperative between the federal and state governments to assist states in providing adequate medical care to eligible individuals. Although the Federal government establishes general guidelines for the program, the Medicaid program requirements are established by each State. Whether or not a person is eligible for Medicaid will depend on the State where he or she lives.

Texas
https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip
The State Plan is the officially recognized document describing the nature and scope of the State of Texas Medicaid program. As required under Section 1902 of the Social Security Act, the plan was developed by our state and approved by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Essentially, the plan is our state’s agreement that it will conform to the requirements of the Social Security Act and the official issuances of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Utah
http://health.utah.gov/medicaid/provhtml/general_info.html
The Utah Medicaid program pays medical bills for people who qualify for a category of Medicaid; who have low income or cannot afford the cost of health care; who have resources (assets) under the federal limit for the category of Medicaid.

Vermont
http://www.vtmedicaid.com/#/home
Medicaid provides low-cost or free coverage for low-income children, young adults under age 21, parents, pregnant women, caretaker relatives, people who are blind or disabled and those age 65 or older.

Virginia
https://www.coverva.org/en
Welcome to the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) homepage. DMAS is the agency that administers Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Virginia. The CHIP program in Virginia is called Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS). Our mission at DMAS is to provide a system of high quality and cost effective health care services to qualifying Virginians and their families.

Washington
https://www.hca.wa.gov/health-care-services-supports/apple-health-medicaid-coverage
Washington State has a number of programs dedicated to providing health care coverage for low income residents. The largest single source for this coverage is Medicaid, which offers complete major medical coverage. There are also other programs that offer more limited benefits. Services are available through managed care or fee-for-service.

West Virginia
http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/bms/Members/Apply/Pages/default.aspx
Medicaid State Plan Under Title XIX of the Social Security Act Medical Assistance Program. The West Virginia Medicaid State Plan is a comprehensive written document that describes the nature and scope of the Medicaid program. It outlines current Medicaid eligibility standards, policies, and reimbursement methodologies to ensure the state program receives matching federal funds under Title XIX of the Social Security Act. This State Plan outlines how the Medicaid program is implemented in West Virginia.

Wisconsin
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/medicaid/
Wisconsin’s ForwardHealth Medicaid plans for Elderly, Blind or Disabled provide health care for those who are: Age 65 or older, blind or disabled, With family income at or below the monthly program limit, and Who are United States citizens or legal immigrants. The Medicaid plan you are enrolled in depends on your income, assets, and type of care you need.

Wyoming
https://health.wyo.gov/healthcarefin/medicaid/
Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program that pays for medical care for some low income and medically needy individuals and families.

More Resources for Patients
Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN)
https://aonnonline.org/

American College of Radiology  (ACR)
acr.org

American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO)
asco.org

Lung Cancer Action Network (LungCAN)
lungcan.org

National Comprehensive Cancer Network Patient Resources
nccn.org/patientresources

National Lung Cancer Roundtable (NLCRT)
nlcrt.org

Oncology Nursing Society (ONS)
ons.org

The information contained in this Resource Directory is intended as reference material only. The Caring Ambassadors Program makes no representation nor implies endorsement of any product or service, nor does it accept any responsibility for any claims made by any resources listed.