Can You Be Denied Cancer Treatment Without Insurance?

Can you still receive cancer treatment without insurance?

In many cases, you can still receive cancer care without insurance. Under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), Medicare-participating hospitals with emergency departments must provide medical screening exams and stabilizing treatment for emergency medical conditions, regardless of your ability to pay.¹

What happens if you have cancer and no insurance?

If you have cancer and no insurance, you may be responsible for the full cost of your treatment. Your costs may include both medical and day-to-day expenses, from hospital visits and specialist care to driving to and from the hospital and childcare.

Fortunately, many hospitals and cancer centers have financial navigators, social workers or billing specialists who can review your situation, estimate your costs and help you apply for assistance before your treatment begins.

Options for cancer treatment without insurance

If you need cancer treatment without insurance, consider taking these steps as soon as possible.

• Ask for a financial navigator: A financial navigator or oncology social worker can help you understand your treatment costs, billing options and available resources. They may also help you apply for insurance, financial assistance, prescription support and grants.
• Apply for government programs: Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide free or low-cost health coverage to eligible patients.² You can apply for Medicaid or CHIP at any time of year if you qualify.
• Explore Marketplace coverage: Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Health Insurance Marketplace plans can’t deny you coverage or charge you more because you have a pre-existing condition, including cancer.³ You can typically only apply for a new Marketplace plan during open enrollment, though certain life events may qualify you for a special enrollment period, such as losing your previous health coverage, moving to a new ZIP code, getting married or having a child.⁴
• Ask about hospital financial assistance: Some hospitals offer charity care or financial assistance programs for eligible patients. Hospital organizations must have a written financial assistance policy and emergency medical care policy.6 Eligibility rules vary by hospital, so ask your billing department how to apply and what documents you need.
• Look for patient assistance programs: Some nonprofits, cancer organizations and drug manufacturers may offer help with treatment-related costs. Depending on the program, support may include medication assistance, treatment grants, transportation, lodging or general living expense relief. Your provider’s office can often help you find programs that suit your diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Ask about payment plans: If you don’t qualify for financial assistance or insurance right away, ask your provider whether you can set up a payment plan. These plans can help spread your treatment costs over time. Before enrolling, make sure you understand the plan's monthly payment, interest, fees and what happens if you miss a payment.