INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Families fighting cancer face myriad obstacles, including the costs of getting to and from treatment. Those challenges will be met for those served at Franciscan Health Cancer Center, thanks to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

The Center recently received two grants to underwrite transportation ($10,000) and lodging ($35,000) costs for patients and their families. The funding period extends to March 31, 2024.

"Patients and caregivers who travel great distances for our services often need to find lodging for a night or sometimes longer," said Joan Himebrook, accreditation and community outreach coordinator for the Franciscan Health Cancer Center. "The cost of gasoline and hotel stays add up quickly, and that's why these funds are so important."

The funding is especially helpful for at-risk populations, particularly the needy. If a patient cannot get to treatments and appointments, it poses a huge impact on their health outcomes.

"The financial burden of cancer treatment directly contributes to disparities in cancer outcomes," said Rachelle Anthony, senior director, state partnerships of the American Cancer Society. "We're working to increase access and remove barriers to timely, high-quality cancer care. Providing these grants directly to local health systems and partners allows us to deliver assistance directly to patients when and where it's needed most."

Transportation funds will provide gas cards for patients, as well as providing rides through Lyft Medical, a part of the ride service geared for patient transportation. The lodging grant covers expenses for hotel stays at several facilities near the Franciscan Health Cancer Center, located on Indianapolis' far south side. Franciscan staff coordinate reservations and patients/caregivers are not billed for their stays.

Recipients don't need to provide financial need to qualify for assistance, as the goal of the program is to help patients stay consistent with treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy.

The ACS and Franciscan have partnered on programs before through similar grants.

To learn more about services at Franciscan Health Cancer Center, visit here. For additional patient resources at ACS, visit here.



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