Costs and Expenses of Mesothelioma Treatment

The costs and expenses of mesothelioma treatment run high. Treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are expensive. Mesothelioma treatment costs are around $25,000 per hospitalization on average.

If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds set up for those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on experienced mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more. 

How Much Does Mesothelioma Treatment Cost?

The cost of mesothelioma treatment is significant, often exceeding $500,000 to $1 million over the course of care. Expenses include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and newer treatments like immunotherapy, which can cost tens of thousands per session. Additional costs arise from diagnostic tests, hospital stays, medications, and travel to specialized treatment centers. Beyond medical expenses, patients may face financial burdens from lost income and caregiving needs. These costs highlight the importance of seeking compensation through settlements, trust funds, or other legal actions to help alleviate the financial strain on patients and their families.

Know What to Expect When Paying for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma tends to progress at a quick pace despite its long latency time. This makes it even more difficult as you’re faced with mounting medical costs in a relatively short time.

Educating yourself about the costs of mesothelioma treatments and the factors involved with payments will help you better prepare financially for future expenses.

Patients typically undergo chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or a combination of all to battle the disease and reduce the symptoms of mesothelioma.

The cost of each treatment depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, the medications used for chemotherapy, the type of radiation therapy procedure, and more.

Also, expect extra expenses for supplemental therapies, vitamins, and pain medications.

Vitamins, medication, homeopathic agents, and natural extracts can be used. This form of treatment is still in its trial stages, so the associated cost has not been determined.

Although these types of treatments are not as pricey as traditional treatments, the expenses can add up.

Why Mesothelioma Patients Should Keep Detailed Records of Medical Bills

For mesothelioma patients, maintaining meticulous records of medical bills is crucial. Here’s why:

1. Accurate Compensation: Detailed records ensure that all medical expenses are considered when seeking compensation. This includes everything from hospital stays to medication costs, which can significantly impact the total amount awarded.
2. Financial Clarity: Keeping track of all medical expenses provides a clear picture of financial commitments. This helps in planning budgets and anticipating future costs, reducing stress during an already challenging time.
3. Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often require detailed documentation to process claims efficiently. Having an organized record can expedite reimbursements and reduce discrepancies.
4. Legal Proceedings: In legal contexts, thorough documentation supports stronger cases for compensation. It provides concrete evidence of the financial burden mesothelioma has imposed, strengthening your claim.
5. Personal Health Management: Understanding your treatment costs can also guide decisions about future healthcare choices and highlight areas where alternative options might be available.

By maintaining comprehensive records, mesothelioma patients can navigate the financial aspects of their treatment with greater ease and security.

How Much Do Mesothelioma Treatments Cost?

Costs for treatment vary by individual. Average prices can be helpful for patients facing some of these common treatments for mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Surgery Costs

A cancer patient undergoing surgery can expect the costs to be around $39,000 or more, according to a study performed by the U.S. News and World Report. This is an increase from surgery costs only a decade earlier at close to $7,000.

The type of surgery, the stage of the disease, after-treatments, and follow-ups will factor into the cost. Another factor that will affect the cost is the type of surgery needed. For example, palliative surgery may have different costs when compared to curative surgery or diagnostic surgery.

Here are some average costs of surgical procedures mesothelioma patients might need based on a 2019 analysis:

• Pleural drainage: $16,089
• Pleural biopsy: $16,575
• Thoracentesis: $19,899
• Pleurectomy/decortication: $53,993
• Extrapleural pneumonectomy: $62,408

The most extensive procedure, extrapleural pneumonectomy, costs the most. It is a complicated surgery performed by only a handful of specialists.

Average costs can also be categorized more generally:

• Average price of a minor surgical procedure: $13,493
• Average price of a major surgical procedure: $30,734

The Cost of Chemotherapy for Mesothelioma Patients

Again, treatment costs vary, but a typical course of chemotherapy treatment for mesothelioma patients is $38,779. This includes six cycles of chemotherapy with pemetrexed and cisplatin or carboplatin.

Some mesothelioma patients benefit from adding the targeted drug bevacizumab (Avastin) to chemotherapy treatment. This brings the cost up to $87,741 for the full course of treatment. Bevacizumab is often recommended for patients who are not candidates for surgery.

The costs of chemotherapy are based on the drugs used. There is a lot of variation in their pricing. For instance, cisplatin is just $308 for six cycles, while pemetrexed is over $38,000.

Radiation Therapy Costs

Mesothelioma patients rarely receive radiation therapy alone, but it is often used to supplement chemotherapy and surgery.

Statistics regarding radiation therapy costs for mesothelioma patients are limited. The median price of a course of radiation therapy for lung cancer patients is $9,000.

How Much Does Immunotherapy for Mesothelioma Cost?

Immunotherapy is not yet a standard treatment, but it is becoming more common and available for mesothelioma patients.

These are the approximate costs of three of the immunotherapy drugs most commonly used in mesothelioma patients:

• Pembrolizumab (Keytruda): $12,500 per month and $150,000 per year
• Nivolumab (Opdivo): $12,500 per month and $150,000 per year
• Ipilimumab (Yervoy): $130,000 for one 12-week course

Understanding the Costs of Mesothelioma Diagnosis

When seeking to diagnose mesothelioma, the financial implications can vary significantly based on the diagnostic methods utilized. A pivotal study from 2014 highlighted an average cost of $7,567 for a general diagnostic workup for lung cancer patients, though this excludes any insurance contributions.

Challenges and Steps in Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Due to its rarity and the nuanced symptoms associated with it, confirming a mesothelioma diagnosis is often complex. The condition’s long latency period further complicates timely detection, necessitating multiple tests for a definitive diagnosis.

Biopsies, considered the gold standard for diagnosing mesothelioma, are the most cost-intensive. The same 2014 study placed the average biopsy expense for lung cancer patients at $14,634. Biopsies involve extracting tissue or fluid samples and include both needle and surgical modalities, with costs differing across types.

Before proceeding to biopsies, imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans are commonly employed to ascertain tumor specifics such as location and size. A chest CT scan, for instance, was estimated at an average of $184, though prices vary with the extent of the scan.

Blood tests offer a more budget-friendly approach and are typically used to search for biomarkers associated with mesothelioma. These tests may include assessments for substances like MESOMARK and Fibulin-3, although biomarker research is still evolving, making precise cost estimations challenging.

Overall, while a biopsy remains crucial for diagnosis, initial tests such as imaging and blood work can provide a pathway to understanding whether further, more expensive procedures are warranted.

How Do Emerging Treatments and Clinical Trials Affect the Cost of Mesothelioma Treatment?

Emerging therapies for mesothelioma can significantly influence treatment costs, often in ways that differ from traditional approaches. While these innovative treatments might initially seem expensive due to their cutting-edge nature, participating in clinical trials can provide a financial advantage. Here’s how:

• Clinical Trial Sponsorship: Many clinical trials are funded by government grants or research institutions. This funding can cover a substantial portion of the cost, reducing the financial burden on patients.
• Insurance Coverage: Depending on the trial and the patient’s policy, insurance providers may cover some or all of the costs associated with participation. This is because many trials are linked to approved treatments or established protocols.
• Access to New Therapies: By enrolling in a clinical trial, patients can access emerging therapies that might not be widely available yet. These can sometimes be more effective or have fewer side effects, which may reduce associated health costs.

In summary, while emerging treatments often come with uncertainties regarding pricing, clinical trials offer a pathway to potentially lower overall expenses and access state-of-the-art care.

Comparing Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer Treatment Costs

Understanding the financial implications of cancer treatment is crucial. When comparing the costs of mesothelioma treatment to lung cancer, several factors come into play.

Treatment Influences
Costs can significantly vary based on the type of treatment received, the disease’s progression, and the healthcare provider chosen. Insurance plans also play a major role in determining out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

Data Availability and Comparisons
Since mesothelioma is a rare condition, concrete data on average treatment costs is limited. However, lung cancer treatment costs offer a useful benchmark given the similarities in required care. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the initial treatment costs for lung cancer patients averaged approximately $68,293, based on data from 2013 to 2017.

Variations in Cost Factors
Both mesothelioma and lung cancer care can involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. The specific regimen a patient undergoes will affect the overall expenditure. While exact figures for mesothelioma can be elusive, lung cancer statistics provide a practical estimate for financial preparation.

In summary, while direct comparisons are challenging due to data limitations, lung cancer treatment costs provide a reasonable gauge for understanding potential expenses related to mesothelioma.

Additional Mesothelioma Expenses

When considering how much it will cost to treat mesothelioma, it is important to include additional expenses. Some examples of the hidden costs associated with treating mesothelioma include:

• Travel. Mesothelioma is rare, so you might need to travel to get specialist care. Consider the costs of transportation, hotel stays, and more.
• Lost Income. If you were working when you got sick and can no longer work, you must consider the loss of income as an expense.
• Home Care. Many patients need in-home personal care or nursing care. You might also need to hire someone to do chores and daily tasks, like grocery shopping, cleaning, and cooking.
• Medical Equipment. In-home care might require medical equipment, like an oxygen tank or the equipment associated with fluid drainage.
• Mental Health Care. Most people with mesothelioma experience declines in mental health with diagnosis and benefit from therapy, counseling, and other mental health care services.
• Financial and Legal Costs. When facing end-of-life decisions, you will probably need to work with a financial advisor, lawyer, or both.

Planning for Unexpected and Recurring Mesothelioma-Related Expenses

Caring for a mesothelioma patient isn’t just about managing treatment costs. It includes an array of additional expenses that can take patients and caregivers by surprise if not properly planned for. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigate these financial challenges:

Anticipate All Forms of Expenditures

Beyond medical treatments, consider the broader spectrum of care-related expenses, such as:

• Travel and Accommodation: For those receiving treatment far from home, travel expenses and the cost of lodging can accumulate quickly.
• Home and Hospice Care: Costs for in-home assistance or hospice care towards the end stages are significant and often not covered completely by insurance.
• Support Services: Expenses for cancer coaching, mental health services, and therapy sessions should factor into your budget.
• Nutrition and Wellness: Specialized diets and nutritional supplements to manage dietary needs can involve unexpected outlays.

Prepare for Fluctuating and Recurring Costs

Treatment plans may require multiple rounds of chemotherapy or other therapies, which can lead to recurring expenses. Additionally, expenses often increase towards the end-of-life stage due to intensive care needs.

Utilize Financial Aids and Resources

To better manage these financial obligations, consider these steps:

1. Insurance Review: Ensure a thorough understanding of what your health insurance covers and identify any gaps. Consider discussing additional coverage options with a specialist.
2. Financial Assistance: Look into organizations that provide grants or financial aid specifically for cancer patients. The American Cancer Society and CancerCare offer support programs that can mitigate costs.
3. Budgeting and Planning: Work with a financial advisor who specializes in healthcare to develop a comprehensive budget that accounts for variable costs.
4. Support Networks: Tap into patient support groups, which can offer insights into available resources and shared experiences in managing costs.

Anticipating these costs and leveraging available resources can alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with mesothelioma care. Preparing ahead ensures that both patients and caregivers can focus more on treatment and support, rather than financial stress.

How to Pay for Mesothelioma Treatment

Very few people can pay the high costs of mesothelioma treatment out of pocket. Consider all the available resources if you are facing these expenses.

Health Insurance

Most patients use some type of health insurance plan to cover some of the costs of mesothelioma treatment. A study of late-stage lung cancer patients broke down the average costs of care with different types of insurance:

• Employer Insurance. Patients with employment-based insurance paid $5,654 on average for care. The largest portion of the costs was co-pays, followed by premiums and deductibles.
• Individual Private Insurance. For those patients with an individual health insurance plan, the average cost was $10,114.
• Medicare. Patients who qualified for Medicare paid the least for lung cancer treatment. They paid an average of $8,396.

Government Assistance

Government programs can provide compensation or healthcare coverage for patients who qualify:

• Medicare is federal health insurance for people over 65 who worked and contributed to the program.
• Medicaid is a federal program administered by each state that covers health care costs for low-income individuals.
• Social Security Disability provides monthly compensation for individuals who worked and contributed to Social Security but can no longer work.
• Veterans Affairs. The VA offers benefits to qualifying veterans, including disability compensation and free medical care.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are studies of new and emerging treatments or treatment protocols. If you qualify for a clinical trial, you can get cutting-edge treatment at no cost. Keep in mind, though, that you will have to pay for any associated costs, such as travel expenses.

However, clinical trials can also offer financial advantages. Treatments in the clinical trial phase often come with lower out-of-pocket expenses compared to standard treatments. This can make them a more affordable option for patients seeking innovative care.

Moreover, in some instances, insurance may cover participation in clinical trials. This includes coverage for certain patient care costs, further reducing financial burden. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand what specific costs are covered.

In summary, clinical trials not only provide access to the latest medical advancements but can also serve as a cost-effective treatment path. Be sure to explore all available options and consult with your healthcare provider to see if a clinical trial is right for you.

When navigating the complexities of insurance coverage for mesothelioma treatment, it’s crucial to communicate effectively with your provider. Here’s a streamlined guide on questions you should ask:

Verification and Approvals

• Pre-Approval Requirements: Is pre-authorization necessary before beginning treatment? Understanding this can prevent unexpected delays or out-of-pocket expenses.

Coverage Details

• Treatment Coverage Percentage: What portion of each treatment session will be covered? This detail helps you anticipate potential costs and plan your finances accordingly.

Network Providers

• Doctor and Facility Inclusion: Is my mesothelioma specialist part of the insurance network, and are the treatment facilities covered? Ensuring your provider is within the network can significantly reduce expenses.

Financial Responsibilities

• Copays and Deductibles: What are the copayment amounts for each visit, and how will they impact my deductible? Knowing these figures allows you to budget effectively and prioritize treatments.

By preparing these targeted questions, you can gather essential financial information, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options.

Legal Options for Compensation

If you received a mesothelioma diagnosis, you might be eligible for compensation for treatment and related expenses. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer or asbestos law firm can help you understand your options:

• Personal Injury Lawsuit. Mesothelioma is usually considered a personal injury because it is caused by negligent workplace asbestos exposure. A lawyer can help you determine which companies are responsible and help you file a lawsuit. These lawsuits often end in settlements, but some go to trial and result in large jury awards for victims.
• Wrongful Death Lawsuit. If you lose a loved one to mesothelioma, you can file a wrongful death suit to seek compensation. This can be useful for paying medical bills from their treatment. You can also use the compensation for funeral expenses.
• Asbestos Trust Fund Claim. If the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure went bankrupt, you cannot sue them. You might be eligible for a trust fund claim. Bankrupt asbestos companies set up trusts to compensate future claimants.
• Veteran Benefits. Veterans have high rates of mesothelioma due to asbestos use by the military. You cannot sue the military or the government, but you are likely eligible for VA benefits. These include specialist medical care and monthly disability compensation. A lawyer can help you make a successful claim, which requires proving that you were exposed to asbestos during your time in the service.

Mesothelioma Financial Assistance: Support for Patients and Families

For those battling mesothelioma, financial assistance can provide critical relief from the overwhelming costs of treatment and related expenses. Support options include compensation through settlements, asbestos trust funds, and veterans’ benefits for those exposed during military service. Additionally, government programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Medicare can help offset medical bills and lost income.

Explore Direct Financial Assistance:

• Medicare and Medicaid: These government programs can significantly reduce the cost of medical care for eligible patients.
• Disability Benefits: Qualifying for disability benefits can provide a steady income, alleviating the financial pressure of lost wages.
• Legal Action: Pursuing compensation through legal channels can offer substantial financial support. Working with an experienced mesothelioma attorney can maximize compensation opportunities and connect patients to the resources they need.

Additional Support Options:

Nonprofit organizations and cancer support groups may offer grants, housing assistance, or travel aid for specialized treatments. These resources can be invaluable in covering expenses that insurance or direct financial aid might not fully address.

By leveraging these various forms of assistance, patients can find significant relief from the financial burden, allowing them to focus more fully on their health and recovery.

Getting Help

Fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on experienced asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. Keep in mind that if you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for considerable compensation. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.