Financial Assistance

The pediatric social worker is a key member of your child’s health care team. One of the things your social worker can do is to help you explore sources of financial aid for which your child or family may be eligible. The hospital financial office may also be able to help you make credit arrangements or see if you qualify for public or private sources of financial assistance. It’s best to apply immediately, because processing can take weeks.

The following is a partial list of sources of financial and employment assistance:

Medicaid: Medicaid is a government program that provides insurance for low-income patients. Entitlements vary among states. Contact your local Department of Human Services or Department of Public Assistance to find out whether your family is eligible and how to apply.

Supplemental Security Income: The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program may provide some income for a child who is ill or has a handicapping condition. Qualification is based on the parent’s income. SSI will also entitle your child to Medicaid. Check with your local Social Security Administration office for an application. The federal telephone number is 800-772-1213.

State Catastrophic Illness Coverage: State insurance may be available if your private insurance plan does not include catastrophic coverage. Ask the pediatric social worker to help you find out if your state has this program.

Family Medical Leave Act: Enacted in 1993, the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requires employers to continue health insurance coverage to an employee on medical leave for up to 12 weeks. This means that a parent of a child with a brain tumor can take up to 12 weeks of paid or unpaid (at the discretion of your employer) leave within a 12-month period. An employee who uses FMLA is guaranteed his or her job or equivalent job at equal pay and benefits level.