Resources

Resource Guide for Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant

Financial Aid

There are some places you can turn to for help with transplant expenses. While there are no agencies or organizations that will absorb the full cost of a transplant, some relief is possible. Ask a social worker at your treatment center for the names of those that you might contact. Check with nonprofit organizations affiliated with your disease. Make applications for reimbursement for mileage, lodging and even some prescriptions (see Resource Listing).

If the transplant is for a minor child, contact your state department of health. Many states have Children’s Health Care Services, which provide substantial financial aid or insurance coverage, regardless of your income. Sometimes monthly supplemental payments might be required from you.

If insurance coverage is minimal for your transplant, you may need to raise funds to help pay for your treatment. It is important to begin fundraising efforts early. There are several nonprofit organizations that specialize in helping patients raise funds (see Resource Listing). These organizations help arrange fundraisers and maintain accounts to which tax-deductible contributions can be made on a patient’s behalf. Another benefit of working with such groups is that they may provide encouragement and emotional support. Also, check with civic, service, or religious groups for help.

Some considerations for successful grassroots fundraising include:

• Be well organized. Appoint a leader and committee who will oversee a project and take responsibility for getting it accomplished. The patient should not serve as chairperson of his/her own fundraising campaign.
• Have a dedicated group of volunteers.
• Keep volunteers motivated.
• Inform donors how money is directed.
• Have a variety of fundraising projects.
• Publicize your efforts in the community.

If you are going to fundraise, estimate how much money you will need. First, be sure that none of these costs will be covered by insurance. Are you eligible for medical assistance programs? Have you discussed getting help from your employer? Form a volunteer group to manage fundraising projects. Information on fundraising can be found at the public library, from your transplant social worker, or from an organization like those found in the Resource Listing.

Back to Resource Guide Main page