No one should have to worry about finances after a mesothelioma diagnosis. But treatments can be expensive, and some estimates say as many as half of all cancer patients will experience financial challenges after their diagnosis.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed as you try to navigate insurance, billing, and out-of-pocket expenses, know that what you’re feeling is normal — and that help is available.
Our Oncology Nurse Navigator Liz Logan is sharing the latest guidance from the May 2025 Triage Health Conference to help patients and families feel more organized and in control of their medical expenses.
“A big part of my job is helping people understand their options. You don’t have to figure this all out alone.”
Here are 5 steps that can help you manage your finances if you’re facing mesothelioma.
1. Understand Your Health Insurance Coverage
Before treatment begins, take time to learn the details of your health insurance plan. This can help prevent unexpected bills and ensure you’re getting the most from your coverage.
Start by checking how close you are to reaching your out-of-pocket maximum — the most you’ll have to pay out of pocket for covered services in a year. Once you hit that limit, your insurance covers 100% of eligible care for the rest of the year.
You should also confirm that all your doctors and cancer centers are in-network and determine whether prior authorization is required for any mesothelioma treatments.
“If prior authorization is needed, ask if your doctor’s office will handle it — but don’t assume they will,” Liz cautions. “If it falls through the cracks, your treatment might not be covered.”
Get your Free Mesothelioma Guide for information on the latest treatments and how to seek financial compensation to help cover your medical costs.
2. Review Your EOB Before Paying Bills
When your medical bills arrive, don’t pay them right away. Wait until you receive your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance company.
The EOB outlines what your plan paid for, what was denied, and how much (if anything) you actually owe. Sometimes a bill shows up before your insurance has fully processed the claim or before they’ve corrected a billing code.
“Don’t panic when you see that first bill. It might not be accurate, and you don’t want to overpay.”
If you’re unsure how to read your EOB or believe there’s been a mistake, contact your insurance company for guidance.
3. Know How to Appeal Insurance Denials
If your insurance denies coverage for a treatment, you have the right to appeal. Many patients successfully reverse these decisions when they follow the proper steps.
- For pre-treatment denials, patients should file an internal appeal within 180 days. The insurer’s decision should be made within 30 days.
- For denials after treatment, the same 180-day window usually applies, but it might take up to 90 days to get a response.
- In urgent situations, you can request both internal and external reviews at the same time, and your insurer should respond within 72 hours.
If your internal appeal is denied, you can file for an Independent Medical Review (IMR) — also known as an external review — within 4 months of the denial. You’ll receive a decision within 45 days, and it’s legally binding for your insurer.
A study by Premier Inc. found that over half of medical claims initially denied by private payers were ultimately paid after appeals.
4. Pursue Mesothelioma Compensation
You may qualify for mesothelioma compensation if you were exposed to asbestos in the workplace, during military service, or through certain products.
You may qualify for compensation from:
- Asbestos trust funds: Access over $30 billion set aside by bankrupt asbestos companies for qualified mesothelioma patients and families.
- Mesothelioma settlements: Many patients receive $1 million or more without having to go to court. These funds can help cover medical bills, lost income, and other expenses.
- Veterans disability benefits: You may qualify for VA benefits, including tax-free monthly payments over $4,000 and inexpensive treatment through a VA hospital.
This compensation can help reduce the financial burden of mesothelioma care and ensure you have access to the treatment you need.
“There’s a lot of support out there, but patients don’t always know where to look. That’s why Patient Advocates can be so helpful — we connect you to those resources.”
Get a Free Case Review to find out if you qualify for mesothelioma compensation. We’ll connect you with our expert legal partners to help you get the support you deserve.
Get a Free Mesothelioma Case Review
5. Contact the Billing Department
When insurance covers only part of the cost and you can’t afford the remaining balance, consider speaking with the billing department of the hospital or your mesothelioma doctor. They may be able to waive part of the bill or arrange for donated medical services.
For care you’ve already received, it’s worth asking the billing department whether they can:
- Extend your payment deadline
- Offer a lower lump sum payment
- Set up a monthly payment plan
- Waive a portion of the charges
If you’re receiving treatment at a nonprofit hospital, they’re legally required to offer charity care or a sliding scale billing based on your income.
Get Help With Financial Assistance for Mesothelioma Care
Managing the financial side of mesothelioma is stressful, but there are direct steps you can take to stay organized and ensure you’re not missing out on available support.
Liz and our other Patient Advocates can help you:
- Check your eligibility for asbestos trust fund payouts
- File for VA disability benefits
- Find travel grants and copay assistance
- Pursue legal settlements
Call (866) 608-8933 or use our contact form to get in touch today.
