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Living Far From Treatment Facility

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Last Modified: November 20, 2009

Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts,"

I am getting radiation therapy for breast cancer at a facility many miles from home. Are there organizations that can help with getting a ride to treatment or finding a place to stay that might be cheaper than a hotel?

Tracy Lautenbach, MSW, LCSW, Social Worker in the Radiation Oncology Department at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, responds:

Yes there are. The American Cancer Society has a Road to Recovery Program that can help with providing rides to treatment by volunteer drivers if they are available. They also have a mileage reimbursement program that can assist with the cost of travel to treatment facility. You would start by contacting the American Cancer Society to register yourself (1-800-ACS-2345).

Regarding lodging during treatment: Host for Hospitals is a local organization (Philadelphia Area) that provides free in-home lodging for patients in someone else's home. The American Cancer Society has several Hope Lodges open, which also provide free lodging. Also, Joe's House is an organization that assists in finding lodging for patients.

See OncoLink's Financial Assistance Links for these and other helpful organizations.

This question and answer was part of the OncoLink Brown Bag Chat Series, Understanding Breast Cancer Supportive Care Issues View the entire transcript.