Insurance
It is important to take time to review your health insurance policy to have a better understanding of your coverage.
If you have private insurance, you may find a link to your plan by visting the America's Health Insurance Plans page of Health Insurance Plan Links. A call to the Customer Service or Member Services Department may be helpful.
If you are not already enrolled, you may be eligible for one of three government-sponsored programs for health benefits.
- Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those who are 65 or older, people of any age with permanent kidney failure, and disabled people under age 65.
- Medicaid is a federal-state health insurance program for people who need financial assistance for medical expenses.
- Veterans Benefits are available for eligible veterans and their dependents at a Veterans Administration Medical Center. The Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC) is a tertiary care facility serving Indiana veterans.
Understanding the details of your insurance can be very confusing. Your coverage may vary depending on the insurance company, your plan, and the state you live in. Our financial counselors and oncology social workers at the IU Simon Cancer Center or Riley Hospital for Children are available to help you with your insurance concerns.
Your state insurance department should also be able to answer your health insurance questions. In Indiana, call the Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services Division at locally at 317.232.2395, toll-free at 1-800-622-4461 or email consumer@doi.state.in.us
Health Insurance Appeals
If you disagree with the basis stated for denial of health insurance claims, check your policy or employee booklet for the company's appeal procedures. The company should be able to answer procedural questions about appeals over the phone. Your appeal should be in writing and may require information from your doctor.
More about Insurance
Consumer Guides (America's Health Insurance Plans)
What Cancer Survivors Need to Know About Health Insurance (National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society)
About Insurance Programs in Indiana
Medicaid/Healthcare (Family and Social Services Administration)
Senior Health Insurance Information Program (Indiana Department of Insurance)
Seniors (Family and Social Services Administration)
About Insurance and Clinical Trials
Clinical Trials and Insurance Coverage - A Resource Guide (National Cancer Institute)
States That Require Health Plans to Cover Patient Care Costs in Clinical Trials (National Cancer Institute)
Medicare Coverage of Clinical Trials (National Cancer Institute)
The NCI/VA Agreement on Clinical Trials: Questions and Answers (National Cancer Institute)
TRICARE Beneficiaries Can Enter Clinical Trials for Cancer Prevention and Treatment Through a Department of Defense and National Cancer Institute Agreement (National Cancer Institute)
