My Friend Has Stage IV Breast Cancer. Here Are Some Things She Wishes You Knew

Nobody should have to pay $2,543 a month for their chemotherapy copay.

Yet that’s exactly what Tami was doing at one point, after her husband switched jobs and insurance plans. The nonsensical reason: “Currently, I.V. chemotherapy falls under medical coverage, yet oral chemotherapy, which can be taken at home, falls under prescription coverage, hence the financial burden falls on the patient,” says Tami. When she had the $2,543 monthly copay, she was able to apply for and eventually secure financial aid from the drug manufacturer—but going through that process is just one more source of stress for patients already dealing with their diagnosis, treatment, and nonstop medical bills.

People are working to fix the system, and you can help.

“People are always asking what they can do and how they can help,” Tami says. “One place to start is by supporting two bipartisan bills currently in Congress that will better the quality of life for breast cancer patients.” One bill—the Cancer Drug Parity Act (HR1730/S.741)—says that whether your chemo comes in I.V. or pill form, insurance should cover it the same way.

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