Does Mesothelioma Treatment Qualify for Financial Assistance?

Government Financial Assistance

Federal and state programs provide substantial financial support for mesothelioma patients. Medicare covers treatment for those 65 and older or those on Social Security Disability. Medicaid serves low-income patients, and VA benefits are available to veterans with service-connected asbestos exposure. Social Security Disability Insurance provides monthly income for those unable to work.

The Social Security Administration's Compassionate Allowances program includes mesothelioma, enabling faster processing of disability applications. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides additional monthly payments to disabled individuals with very limited income and resources.

Nonprofit and Charitable Assistance

CancerCare offers financial assistance grants to cancer patients for treatment-related costs, transportation, and home care. The Patient Advocate Foundation provides case management services and a co-pay relief program. The American Cancer Society offers lodging through its Hope Lodge program for patients traveling for treatment.

Additional organizations provide mesothelioma-specific assistance, including help with travel costs to specialized treatment centers, nutritional support, and counseling services. Hospital social workers can connect patients with local and national resources tailored to their specific needs.

Pharmaceutical Patient Assistance

Drug manufacturers offer patient assistance programs that provide medications at reduced cost or free of charge. Pemetrexed (Alimta), a standard mesothelioma chemotherapy drug, is available through Eli Lilly's patient assistance program for qualifying individuals. Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab), used in mesothelioma immunotherapy, have similar programs through Bristol Myers Squibb.

Eligibility for these programs typically depends on income, insurance status, and whether the drug is being used for an approved indication. Oncology social workers and financial counselors at cancer centers routinely help patients apply for these programs as part of treatment planning.

Legal Compensation

Because mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure, patients are often entitled to significant legal compensation. Asbestos trust funds hold over $30 billion for victims. Personal injury lawsuits and settlements can provide additional recoveries. This compensation can cover medical costs, lost income, caregiving expenses, pain and suffering, and other financial impacts of the disease.

Legal claims can be pursued concurrently with all other forms of financial assistance. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can evaluate your case at no cost and work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no fees unless compensation is recovered.