Costs of care
Palliative care costs are normally covered either by Medicare or private health insurance. It is important to find out as soon as possible who pays for what, and what additional financial assistance may be available. Who pays can depends on whether care is being provided at home or in the hospital. There may be costs attached to services you access in the community. There may be limits to length of stay depending on the health insurance policy and the hospital.
Don’t be afraid to ask about the cost of these services. It is better to know in advance than receive a bill you weren’t expecting. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, a social worker from your hospital or community health service can provide advice. Many Centrelink offices have financial information services where you can have a confidential interview and get advice and assistance.
If you are a member of a private health fund that includes cover for home nursing (as part of the hospital cover) you can then elect to be treated by a nursing service as a private patient.
Domiciliary Care and Home Care groups can provide equipment and care support in the home. Fees may apply. If equipment is not available, these agencies can recommend private hire agencies at reasonable rates. Red Cross may also be able to help with this equipment hire. You can find information on Domiciliary Care and Home Care groups in the CareSearch State Resources page.
If you need to call an ambulance, it will cost money in some states, but not in others. Information on your state or territory is found below.
Eligible Veterans and War Widows who develop cancer can seek assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs for services and equipment and in certain cases, medications.
Getting help and advice
Various resources and organisations provide practical help and advice to help with finances during an illness.
Resources
- Palliative Care Council of South Australia
Palliative Caring at Home: Covers practical issues involved in caring for the patient at home and answer many questions carers might have about what to expect and where to go for help, such as where to get equipment, counselling and financial help or other information.
- Australian Securities Investment Commission
Getting Advice: A practical guide to personal financial advice: May help in choosing an advisor to help with financial issues.
- Centrelink
Needing help after someone has died? Helpful, practical information about what to do and who to contact after someone has passed away, where to get financial advice, and information about payments and special benefits.
- Women's Information Switchboard (SA)
Managing money when your partner dies: Part of a series of fact sheets to helps women to build their financial skills.
Websites
- Make-A-Wish Foundation
Helps to grant wishes for children with life-limiting illnesses
- Ronald McDonald House
Provides accommodation, available for children and families who travel to metropolitan hospitals for treatment
- AIDS Trust of Australia
May be able to provide financial support for patients with HIV / AIDS
- Cancer Council Australia
Some cancer organisations provide limited financial support for those with cancer
Pink Ribbon Day
Provides information on practical support and financial assistance for breast cancer patients.
This page was created on 26 March 2007 and is due for review in March 2009