How Should I Get Organized

Just as you have done for your medical records, get either a three ring binder or an accordion file to keep track of every scrap of paper dealing and every conversation dealing with the financing of your cancer treatment. 

Keep a copy of your insurance policies “Explanation of Benefits” in your folder for easy access.  You will want to compare these benefits with what the insurance company says it is paying out for particular treatments or visits.  Do they line up?  Were you charged for an out-of-network expense that was in-network?  Where you charged for a visit to the emergency room as an unscheduled appointment rather than what it was, a medical emergency?  Have you overpaid your deductible? 

Include a logbook to keep track of the dates and times of phone conversations with medical administrators and insurance company agents.  Keep track of what agreements were made, by whom, and when.  If an insurance agent promises that a treatment will be covered, note the agent’s name and identification number if they have one. 

Within your folder, keep a copy of all paperwork sent by your insurance company separate from any bills sent by a doctor or medical facility. Remember too that many bills sent to you will not include the amount that your insurance company will be paying.  Cross check correspondence from your medical company with any bill to find out what you will actually have to pay out of your own pocket.  Call your insurance company to verify any charges before you pay them. 

Identify someone who can act on your behalf financially.  Such a person is usually referred to as having “power of attorney,” and can pay your bills and file claims in the event that you cannot for a time. 

The volunteers and social workers attached with Cancer.im can help you in giving details of the organizations providing financial assistance as well as health insurance. Often claiming the payments becomes issue. Patient’s family fails to follow up the entire matter, as they get busy in running around the hospital and doctors. The team of social workers and volunteers of Cancer.im can do the needful for you. There are many charitable organizations that work with Cancer.im. They can claim the payments for the patient’s family and can take care of the necessary legal actions if required, on behalf of them.