Ï㽶ÊÓƵ

Skip to main content

The Financial Side of Cancer: Your FAQs Answered

Read Time: 3 minutes

Provider sitting with hands folded on desk; piles of coins and a piggybank are on the desk in front of him.

For many, navigating medical finances while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Huntsman Cancer Institute is here to help ease the stress that may come from medical bills and insurance claims.

From our financial advocates and Cancer Learning Center staff to our social workers and patient navigators, there are people here to help you with your financial questions so you can focus on treatment.

Below is an overview of frequently asked questions (FAQs) on insurance, billing, and financial assistance. 

Billing Procedures

Current patients pay and manage bills through an online tool called . For any billing questions you may have like how to pay your bill, how to read your statement, or how to pay online, our financial advocates will refer you to the billing customer service.

I have questions about my bill. Who can I reach out to for assistance?

We strive to provide transparent billing procedures for our patients. Our billing team can assist you with everything from billing policies to statements or outstanding balances.

Understanding Insurance

One of the first steps in managing your finances during cancer treatment is understanding your insurance benefits and requirements. Huntsman Cancer Institute’s financial advocates can help you gain a clear understanding of your coverage. 

What types of insurance does Huntsman Cancer Institute accept?

We accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and more. Depending on your insurance, we will review and assist with your network questions.

If your insurance is out of network, we provide billing for out-of-pocket costs and may recommend seeing specific in-network providers to minimize expenses.

In addition to Huntsman Cancer Institute providers, you may want to confirm that the individual health care providers you will be seeing are in-network. This includes physicians, specialists, nurses, and any other health care professionals involved in your care. 

What are insurance benefits and how can I understand what is available to me?

Insurance benefits refer to the coverage and services provided by your insurance plan. These benefits vary depending on your specific insurance provider and plan. For example, benefits may include coverage for medical services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, preventive care, and wellness programs.

If you have questions about the benefits provided by your insurance plan, we recommend you reach out to your insurance provider directly. If you have questions that involve Huntsman Cancer Institute, you may ask a financial advocate for guidance.
 

How much are out-of-pocket costs for Huntsman Cancer Institute?

If you would like to estimate out-of-pocket costs, access our online tool using your insurance information.

What if my insurance does not cover a specific treatment?

If your insurance doesn’t cover a specific treatment, our financial advocates can explore alternative options and assistance programs with you. 

Financial Assistance Programs

For many patients and families facing cancer, financial concerns can be overwhelming. There are various local and national organizations that aid those in need, covering medical costs, treatment-related expenses, and everyday living expenses.

The help available to you may vary depending on where you live, your income and medical insurance, and what cancer or medical conditions you have now, or have had in the past.

Our teams at Huntsman Cancer Institute can help answer your questions and match you to programs. We are here to help you navigate the financial aspects of your cancer journey. 

I am facing financial hardship. Are there resources available to help me?

Under Huntsman Cancer Institute’s financial assistance policy, you may be eligible for full or partial reduction of your bill based on your total household income in relation to federal guidelines.

How do I know if I am eligible for Medicaid?

Medicaid is a government-funded health care program in the United States that provides medical assistance to individuals and families who are below a certain income level. Medicaid rules have changed for Utah, and you may be eligible for coverage. Learn more about Medicaid eligibility and enrollment.

What are some additional financial aid resources outside of Huntsman Cancer Institute?

There are many resources and grants available to people with cancer. Government programs like Medicaid and Medicare offer health care coverage, while nonprofit organizations like the and provide financial aid and support services.

Who is available to help me find financial resources?

Contact the Cancer Learning Center. Staffed by cancer information specialists, the Cancer Learning Center is a free service that is available to everyone. They can help you find national resources and resources in your community.

Talk with your social worker. Social workers with Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Patient and Family Support team provide support with practical concerns such as finances and work-related issues. If you are not a Huntsman Cancer Institute patient, ask your cancer team to connect you to their social worker.

Work with a patient navigator. Patient navigators make sure patients and caregivers get needed services. If you are not a Huntsman Cancer Institute patient, ask your cancer team if they have patient navigators, nurse navigators, peer support, or other programs that can help connect you to resources and financial aid.

Cancer touches all of us.