CAR T-cell therapy is expensive. In addition to insurance co-pays and deductibles, other incidental expenses can really add up.
Many commercial health insurance plans pay for CAR T-cell therapy. However, some may limit coverage and others may not cover it at all.
Medicare covers CAR T-cell therapy. Medicaid coverage varies depending on the state in which you live.
Before beginning CAR T-cell therapy, your medical team will contact your insurance provider to determine if it will pay for the treatment. Be sure to tell the financial coordinator at your medical center about all insurance policies you have so that he or she can maximize your benefits.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Although your insurance provider may pre-approve payment for CAR T-cell therapy, some procedures may not be covered. You may also have deductibles and co-pays that add to your out-of-pocket expenses.
Your insurance plan may or may not cover prescription drugs and medical devices. You may also need help with food, lodging, travel, and parking expenses.
Ask the financial coordinator at your medical center to help you estimate your out-of-pocket expenses for treatment. If your insurance company has assigned you a case manager, he or she may be able to help you estimate out-of-pocket expenses as well.
Ask your medical team whether the company creating the CAR T-cells for you has an assistance program to help you cover expenses.
You may be eligible for financial help from BMT InfoNet’s Patient Assistance Fund or other organizations. Click on the resources below to see if you are eligible for assistance.
- BMT InfoNet's Patient Assistance Program
- The Leukemia and Lymphoma Financial Support
- The Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation
Next: Does CAR T-cell Therapy Cure Cancer?
Updated November 2024
