How does one afford the co-pay for immunotherapy drugs?

thanks greatly appreciated

@autumnwarriorsr, I can add supporting evidence for using your Oncologist's or Cancer Center's social worker. I take Tagrisso, which is a targeted therapy, and I'm not old enough for Medicare. My insurance company is Blue Cross / Blue Shield of Alabama, and my high deductible plan only covers 20% of my $16,817.39 monthly prescription.

But . . . our social worker learned that the manufacturer, AstraZeneca, offers an annual debit card with a $26,000 limit. This will be the second year we use the card to pay for the first month's prescription, putting me over max out of pocket. After that, we add $6K to the $10K on the card and pay for the second month. I file the paperwork when I get home and am reimbursed 100% via direct deposit in 3 days. Then we keep using the same money the following month. The social worker found the program and completed all the paperwork to make this happen. I figure 4 years without progression is easily worth the $6K!

All these drugs are costly. Cancer centers know most individuals can't afford them and have plans to provide guidance. All the best to you. And welcome to the club no one wants to belong to!

@autumnwarriorsr, I'll build on the responses from @abob and @lls8000. Many drug manufacturers have financial assistance programs. Once you know which treatment you will be getting, an oncology social worker can help navigate the world of co-pay and financial resources available to you.

You may find this blog post, written by the Mayo Clinc oncology social work team, helpful to learn more about what they do:
- How an Oncology Social Worker Can Help https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/cancer-education-center/newsfeed-post/how-an-oncology-social-worker-can-help/

I look forward to hear what you learn at your upcoming appointment.

I too am very grateful for my Medicare supplemental insurance. It has coverd all my cancer treatments and many specialist visits in the last three years no approvals necessary, I never saw a bill.

Not recommended yet. I'm just preparing in advance. I had my post treatments first pet scan today and will get the results next Friday. So I am exploring the options. Thanks

Hello @autumnwarriorsr, the cost of cancer is incredibly high. I'm not sure what avenues you have explored already, but because many people experience financial hardship in the face of cancer treatment, most cancer centers have services to help navigate some of the hurdles. A financial counselor, financial navigator, or social worker may be available to talk with about the burden. Some manufacturers will offer income-based assistance.
From a previous post, it sounded like you were waiting for a treatment plan. Is your team recommending immunotherapy?

Perhaps ask your Oncology office if you can apply for any grants, they only use your income - SS, pensions - not interest income. Else my husband t took lowest max out of pocket plan .

Grateful for my Medicare supplemental insurance. After my annual deductible it's covered.