Category: Financial Guidance
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Financial Toxicity in Indian Cancer Care: When the Cost of Survival is a Lifetime of Debt
Cancer is not just a health crisis—it’s a financial disaster for many Indian families. While fighting the disease, patients and their loved ones often face crushing medical bills, pushing them into lifelong debt. This is called “financial toxicity”—when the cost of treatment harms a family’s economic stability. The Crushing Weight of Out-of-Pocket Expenses Cancer treatment…
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Insurance and Cancer in India: Are You Really Covered?
Cancer treatment in India can cost anywhere between ₹5 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs, depending on the stage and type of cancer. While many assume their health insurance will cover these expenses, the reality is often different. Hidden exclusions, policy limitations, and insufficient coverage leave patients struggling with massive out-of-pocket expenses. It is helpful to understand…
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The Travel Burden: Why Distance to Cancer Care is a Major Barrier in Rural India
Cancer is a tough battle, but for patients in rural India, the fight begins long before treatment – it starts with the struggle to reach a hospital. World-class cancer centres (such as Tata Memorial, AIIMS, and CMC) may be found in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Vellore, but getting there is extremely difficult for…
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Cancer and the Financial Burden: How to Manage Costs Effectively
A cancer diagnosis is life-altering, not just emotionally and physically but also financially. The cost of treatment can be overwhelming, often requiring a significant financial investment. This responsibility becomes even more difficult when the patient is the main provider or a young, independent professional. Understanding the Financial Impact The financial impact of cancer is different…
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The Hidden Costs of Cancer: What Most Patients Don’t Budget For
When someone is diagnosed with cancer, the first concern is often treatment and recovery. However, many patients and their families are unprepared for the hidden costs that come with the disease. Beyond medical bills, cancer brings unexpected financial burdens that can add stress during an already difficult time. Here are some of the most common…
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A Breakdown of the Financial Aspects of a Cancer Diagnosis in India
A cancer diagnosis is life-changing, not just emotionally but also financially. From early tests to treatments and rehabilitation, the costs can be overwhelming. Let’s explore and deconstruct the cost of cancer care in India, covering supportive therapy, insurance, diagnosis, and treatment. Initial Diagnosis and Biopsy The first step is usually a biopsy (a small tissue sample test) or imaging scans (like MRI, CT, or PET scans) to confirm cancer. These tests can cost anywhere from 1,000…
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Managing work, Family, and Social Life Post Cancer Treatment
Life after cancer treatment can feel like a new beginning, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Balancing work, family, and social life while adjusting to the physical and emotional changes can be overwhelming. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate this phase successfully and reclaim a sense of…
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Choosing the Right Oncologist is as Important as Your Treatment
Choosing the right doctor can be as crucial as selecting the treatment itself, especially when navigating the challenging journey of cancer care. Samara Mahindra, founder of Carer, shares a deeply personal story that highlights the profound impact of a compassionate doctor on a patient’s experience. When her mother was diagnosed with cancer, Samara and her…
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Financial Planning During Cancer Treatment
Along with physical and emotional challenges, cancer brings the stress of high treatment costs. These expenses can drain a family’s savings quickly. Maintaining the presence of mind to plan for and manage the cost of cancer treatment can make a big difference in this difficult journey. The cost of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgeries…
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Navigating the Financial Terrain of Cancer Treatment: Strategies for managing costs and seeking support
When facing a cancer diagnosis, one of the primary concerns is the financial burden associated with treatment. Cancer treatment is notoriously expensive and can place a significant strain on individuals and families. This concern is particularly heightened when the patient is the primary breadwinner or a young professional reliant on their income. Here are some…