Confused, overwhelmed, scared! Those are the terms that resonate with patients diagnosed with a chronic illness. Then throw in the costs of their diagnosis and another term comes to mind-shocked (that’s the PG term). But there are financial assistance resources to help those diagnosed with a chronic illness. So why do only about 50% of patients access these resources? Because the path to finding the right program is nearly impossible to navigate on your own.

The top reasons Financial Assistance Programs are like a labyrinth

  1. Fragmented system: Financial assistance programs are often scattered across various local, state, and federal agencies, as well as private organizations. Navigating this fragmented landscape can be confusing and time-consuming for those in need of help.
  2. Eligibility criteria: Each program typically has specific eligibility criteria that must be met, such as income level, residency status, age, and more. This can make it difficult for some individuals to qualify for assistance, even if they are struggling with their medical bills.
  3. Limited funding: Financial assistance programs often have limited funding, which means that not everyone who needs help can receive it. This can be particularly challenging during periods of increased demand, such as economic downturns or public health crises.
  4. Lack of awareness: Many people may not be aware of the financial assistance programs available to them or may not know where to start looking for help. This lack of awareness can prevent people from accessing the resources they need.
  5. Application process: The application process for financial assistance can be complex and time-consuming, requiring individuals to gather extensive documentation and complete multiple forms. This can be overwhelming and may discourage some people from applying.
  6. Stigma: Some people may be hesitant to seek financial assistance due to the stigma associated with needing help. This can prevent them from accessing the resources they need and may exacerbate their financial difficulties.
  7. Timeliness of assistance: When facing high medical bills, people often need help quickly. However, the application and approval process for financial assistance programs can take time, which may lead to increased financial stress for those in need.
  8. Coordination of assistance: Individuals may need to access multiple assistance programs to address their medical bills, which can require significant coordination and communication between different agencies and organizations.

Iryss is here to help

Let Iryss be your guide in this journey. Our team is trained to help you identify the right program for you and will assist you with your application. With Iryss there is no labyrinth as we guide you from the start to the finish when applying for a financial assistance program. You can learn more about our plans by visiting our website.