Bargaining Health for Wealth: The Dilemma of Liquidating Assets for Lung Cancer Treatment

Selling More Than Stocks: Navigating the Emotional and Financial Landscape of Funding Lung Cancer Treatment

In the face of challenging lung cancer diagnosis – patients and their families often endure financial hardships, whether it is about cancer treatment options or medical expenses. One such alternative that patients and families have taken into consideration to deal with financial problems is the selling of assets to cover the costly cancer treatment and care. 

 This decision is made after careful evaluation by the patient’s family members – as it involves a complex interplay of health, money, and emotional factors. In this article, we will explore the considerations and challenges involved in selling lung cancer care assets by recognizing the complexity of the decision-making process and the impact the expense can have on lung cancer patients and their loved ones.

Breakdown of Medical Costs

Medical costs related to lung cancer in India can greatly vary depending on several factors including – the stage of the cancer, the type of treatment options, the choice of healthcare facility, and geographical location. Moreover, the availability of health insurance and government subsidy programs can also affect patient’s overall financial burden.

Here are some general overviews of potential costs associated with lung cancer treatment in India: 

Diagnosis and initial consultation 

 Chest X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic tests may incur costs.  Initial consultation fees of oncologists and other specialists. 

The total cost of the diagnostic tests and consultation will be approximately – ₹16,000 to ₹36,000

Methods of treatment

 Depending on the type and stage of lung cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments may be recommended by oncologists.

Surgical procedures for lung cancer – ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 (or more depending on the complexity)

Chemotherapy 

• Cost per session – ₹15,000 to ₹50,000
• Number of sessions can vary based on the treatment plan

Radiation Therapy

• Cost per session – ₹5,000 to ₹20,000
• Number of sessions can vary based on the treatment plan

Targeted Therapy

• Cost of targeted therapy drugs – ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per month

Medications

The expense of cancer drugs can be a significant part of the total costs. Some medications may be available at subsidized rates through government programs or may be covered by health insurance.

• Cost of supportive medications and pain management – ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per month

Hospital treatments

Expenses related to hospital treatment –  including room charges, hospital services and other hospital services. 

• Room charges and other hospital services – ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 per day
• Additional charges for nursing care, medications, and other facilities

Aftercare

 Regular check-ups, imaging studies, and, if necessary, further treatment. 

• Regular follow-up consultations and imaging studies – ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per visit

 Having health insurance can significantly affect patients’ financial burden. Some policies cover cancer treatment, while others may have limitations or exclusions.

Financial Support Services and Resources For Lung Cancer Patients

Financial support services and organizations provide assistance to lung cancer patients. These services can help in managing the costs associated with treatment, medications, and other related expenses. 

Here are some support services in Mumbai that one can consider for cancer-related financial hardships – 

Government Health Programs

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) – a government-sponsored health insurance scheme that provides financial protection to vulnerable families.  

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) – A state-level health insurance scheme in Maharashtra that covers various medical services. 

Charities and NGOs

Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA) – CPAA provides financial assistance, counseling, and support services to cancer patients.  

Tata Memorial Hospital – Tata Memorial Hospital is a premier cancer treatment center in Mumbai and often collaborates with NGOs to provide financial assistance to patients. 

National Health Mission (NHM)

NHM in India aims to provide accessible, affordable, and accountable quality health services to the last person of the last household. They may have programs that offer support to cancer patients.

Crowdfunding platforms

Online crowdfunding platforms like Milaap or Ketto allow individuals to create fundraising campaigns to cover medical expenses. This can be a way for the community to meet the financial needs of the patient.

Health Insurance

Check with your health insurance provider to understand the coverage for cancer treatment. Some policies may cover a significant portion of the expenses.

Local Government Health Services

Municipal hospitals and health services in Mumbai may have provisions for financial support or subsidized treatments for economically weaker sections.

Patient Support Groups

Joining patient support groups can provide valuable information about available resources and support systems.

If you or any of your loved ones are looking for cancer related support, we encourage you to contact these organizations directly and explore the specific assistance they offer. In addition, the above available resources can be used more effectively by consulting health social workers, talking with oncologists and seeking guidance from patient support groups.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the decision to sell  assets to finance lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal and complex choice that must be approached with care. It is advisable to look into government aid programs, health insurance  and support charities that may offer alternative  financial aid options. In the end, selling an asset is a complex interplay of medical, financial and emotional considerations. 

People facing this challenges should communicate openly and honestly with healthcare providers, financial advisors and loved ones to ensure an informed and balanced approach to both the health and financial considerations of the complex journey of lung cancer treatment.