Cancer patients in need of frequent chemotherapy or radiation treatments, dialysis patients, and rehabilitation patients who must go for physical therapy several days a week are canceling visits or prolonging intervals between appointments due to the high cost of transportation. These groups of patients are among the hardest hit by the dramatic increase in the cost of fuel.
The uninsured and the underinsured are also prone to forgo medical care due to the increased costs of gasoline. Many are struggling just to put food on the table and shelter over their heads. Medical care is often postponed unless an emergency situation occurs.
Don't Skip Medications or Split Doses
Medication compliance is also an issue particularly for those with no insurance or high copays. Patients are foregoing medications altogether or may be reducing their dosages by cutting pills in half or quarters or taking doses every other or every third day.
This can be a very dangerous practice. Medications need to be taken according to the label instructions. Many pills or capsules are not meant to be split or crushed. This can present a hazard to the intestinal tract. The exact dosage is no longer controlled and side effects can occur.
Patients experiencing difficulties in paying for medications should consult with their health care practitioner. Many times the office may have supplies of sample medications available. The practitioner may be able to change the prescription to another more affordable medication. Pharmaceutical companies often offer patient assistance programs to provide the medications free or at a lower cost.
Grants Available
Transportation services can be paid for through grants from organizations such as Cancer Care or the American Kidney Fund. Disease related education/support groups such as the American Diabetes Association, the American Cancer Association, etc. may also have grants and other assistance for those who cannot afford medicines, equipment and transportation. Ask your provider about assistance.
Finding Community Resources
Each community receives grants and State and Federal funds for transportation services to the elderly, the disabled and the indigent. A call to the local City Hall, or a check of the community’s website can provide information, forms and links to other community resources.
Dialysis centers employ or contract with medical social workers to assist dialysis patients and their families with community resources as well as coping and grief issues. Ask for this service.
Hospitals can provide information to patients and family members before discharge. Community members can call the hospital for information and referrals for transportation and medical help and resources.
Home health agencies employ medical social workers who are usually a wealth of information about resources in the local community. A referral from the health care practitioner is required, but sometimes information can be obtained just by giving them a call.
Chemotherapy, radiation, dialysis and rehab centers may be able to assist their patients in setting up car pooling or ride sharing options.
Before forgoing medical care and medications, explore the options for reducing cost or obtaining grants and other assistance.
Kathy Quan - Kathy Quan RN BSN has been a home health/hospice nurse for over 30 years. She has authored five books and writes for several online ...
