A cancer diagnosis changes life’s rhythms. While cancer patients need to prioritize their rest and health, they also need constant visits to the doctor’s office and treatment facilities. Not to mention the struggle of just getting to the grocery store.
Although post-pandemic many doctor’s visits can now be done online, transportation for cancer patients is still a pressing need. Patients in weakened states can’t always drive themselves, or may not even have a car. Not all families can easily change their schedules to provide transport assistance for cancer patients. In this quick read, we’ll explain why transportation is such a vital resource for cancer patients, and the steps they can take to ensure they can make it everywhere they need to go.
Why Transportation Matters
Transportation for cancer patients matters for many reasons. Cancer patients will have a large number of appointments to attend, many of which can require significant time in transit. Unfortunately, lack of transportation is the number one reason cited by hospitals and insurance companies for patients’ inability to complete treatment on time or the complete treatment at all. If we can solve the transportation problem, we can all be a part of a healthier world.
Resources To Use
Thankfully, there are many transportation resources for cancer patients. If you or a loved one feel that getting around during cancer treatment is insurmountable, don’t worry - you have options.
- Volunteer Drivers: Many cancer foundations and charities help put patients in contact with volunteer drivers. These volunteers normally receive training specifically for working with cancer patients and have made a major difference in many lives.
- Rideshare Programs: Many rideshare companies partner with charities and other businesses to offer rides to patients. Donors can directly pay for the rideshare costs of cancer patients who need it. OneVillage has already established a partnership in this vein with Uber.
- Hospital Programs: Many hospitals will offer shuttle services or even direct pickup. You should always check if your hospital or medical center offers rides in such a manner. Even if they don’t, they can put you in contact with helpful volunteer organizations.
- Church Groups: Many Church Groups and other faith-based organizations will operate their own set of volunteer drivers. If you are a member of such a group or have one in your area, they can be great places to look for support and volunteer assistance.
- Public Transit: If you feel well enough to travel by public transit, you should note that many metro systems offer discounts for those suffering from serious disabilities or illnesses. They may even have volunteer support to help patients navigate their system.
Financial Assistance
For many cancer patients, the concern is not finding a method of transportation, but paying for it. If you can find a volunteer service that’s free for users, you are in luck. However, for those who need to travel a greater distance, financial assistance can help ease their burden.
For anyone with medical insurance, it is always a good idea to ask if they will cover travel expenses. Many insurance plans do cover such expenses, at least in part. Some insurance companies will even help organize the rides.
Local governments and charities may also maintain a “travel treatment fund” designed to help manage the costs of transport assistance for cancer patients. These are often common in areas with many remote communities, where getting to a hospital can be a challenge. The fund will make sure people in these areas can still get the medical assistance needed.
You can also ask your hospital or doctor’s office to speak to a social worker or case manager to help with transportation. Some hospitals will have local transportation services or can at least connect you to one.
