Cancer and your finances
You may be worried about how to manage the financial impact of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. This information will help you understand the types of costs that can add up and find ways to deal with them.
![Cancer and your finances book](https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Finances-Cover.png)
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Print these questions
Treatment costs
- How much will I have to pay for consultations?
- How much will I have to pay for imaging scans or other tests?
- Can you give me a written estimate of treatment costs?
- Are there other effective treatments that cost less?
- Who else will care for me and how can I find out what their fees will be?
- Are there any out-of-pocket costs not covered by Medicare or my private health cover?
- Will there be any up-front payments?
- Do you bulk-bill?
- Can I be treated as a public patient?
Health fund
- Am I covered for this surgery?
- Do I have to pay an excess or co-payment?
- Do you have a gap scheme?
- Is my hospital or doctor covered by your gap scheme?
Financial impacts of treatment
- Are the costs negotiable? Can the cost be reduced if I can’t afford it?
- When will I have to pay? Do you offer flexible repayment plans? Do you charge interest?
- Will I be able to work while having treatment?
Financial help
- What Centrelink benefits am I able to claim?
- Who can I talk to about my financial situation and available financial support?
- Am I eligible for patient travel assistance? How do I apply?
Need to talk?
Call 13 11 20 to talk to a health professional Or email us your questions.