Multiple Myeloma Government Support

Government Health Insurance and Benefits

If you're living with multiple myeloma, supporting a loved one or providing care, these government programs offer valuable assistance with health insurance, prescription coverage and financial benefit advice. Explore these links for information about cancer patients' government benefits and insurance options: 

• Medicare: Access information from Medicare, the largest government health insurance program (https://www.medicare.gov/) in the United States (U.S.).
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services:  Get critical information from this agency that administers Medicare (https://www.cms.gov/) to Americans over 65 years old and Medicaid to economically challenged individuals.
• Healthcare.gov (http://healthcare.gov/): Learn more about the Affordable Care Act (https://www.healthcare.gov/) options available to you.
• State Health Insurance Program for Seniors (SHIP): Explore this free health benefits counseling service (https://www.shiphelp.org/) for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or care partner. SHIP is an independent program funded by Federal agencies and is not affiliated with the insurance industry.
• Health Insurance Resource Center: Visit this site for information on risk pools (https://www.healthinsurance.org/obamacare/risk-pools/) for the medically uninsurable, with a listing by state and how to contact them.
• State Insurance Information: Access state-by-state insurance information and resources from the National Organization for Rare Disorders (https://rarediseases.org/national-organization-for-rare-disorders-ranks-all-50-states-on-rare-disease-policies/).

Disability and Financial Assistance

Living with multiple myeloma can impact a person's ability to work and manage daily expenses. Fortunately, there are government programs that offer financial support for individuals facing these challenges. These resources can help ease financial strain and provide greater stability. Explore the links to learn more about grants for multiple myeloma patients​, including eligibility, application steps, and how to access available support: 

• Securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits: Get information to help you determine if you qualify for SSDI  (http://www.disability-benefits-help.org/disabling-conditions/multiple-myeloma-and-social-security-disability)and how and when to apply.
• Social Security Disability Application: Visit this site to apply online for disability benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityssi/).
• Federal Disability Benefits: Visit to access help with applying for disability benefits (https://www.ssa.gov/disability/), and finding a job, healthcare, or accessible housing.
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program: Learn how this program helps families cover energy costs to stay safe and healthy.

Resources for Veterans

Veterans with multiple myeloma can access dedicated programs and benefits. These resources may include healthcare coverage, disability compensation, specialized cancer care, and support services tailored to your military service history. The links below help you explore your options and connect with the necessary assistance: 

• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Find valuable information about how veterans can access assistance. Veterans who have experienced toxic exposures during military service (https://www.va.gov/) do not have to prove a connection between their myeloma and service to be eligible to receive VA healthcare and disability compensation.
• Veterans Against Myeloma: Explore our extensive resources for veterans (https://www.myeloma.org/veterans-against-myeloma) seeking advice about myeloma and guidance through the process of applying for VA benefits, including disability.

Myeloma Advocacy, Legal and Employee Benefits

A cancer diagnosis can raise questions about your rights at work. Whether you're navigating time off, workplace adjustments, or job protection, help is available. The links below connect you to organizations that can help protect your rights and support you throughout your care journey:

• Center for Medicare Advocacy: Obtain information about this nonpartisan organization (https://medicareadvocacy.org/) that offers advocacy, education, and legal help to seniors and to people with disabilities obtain fair access to Medicare and necessary healthcare.
• Employee Benefits Security Administration: Find information regarding health and retirement benefits (https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa) following a change in job status. Also, get guidance and tips for plan sponsors, fiduciaries, record keepers, and participants on best practices for maintaining cybersecurity and protecting retirement funds.

Cancer and Health Information

Get clear, evidence-based information from reliable sources, whether you want to learn more about a diagnosis, explore treatment developments, or understand how to manage symptoms. These links connect you to organizations offering comprehensive insights to support informed choices and ongoing care:

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Visit the FDA site (http://www.fda.gov/) for information about the regulation of food safety, drugs, medical devices, vaccines, cosmetics, radiation-emitting products, and tobacco products.
• National Cancer Institute: Get comprehensive cancer information from the principal U.S. agency for cancer research (https://www.cancer.gov/).
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Visit this site for information on health and NIH institutions (https://www.nih.gov/). The NIH is the largest biomedical research agency in the world.

Find Support When It Matters Most

The International Myeloma Foundation does not manage government programs, but we do advocate for better access and equity at all levels. We also work to help patients and care partners find the support they need. Whether you want clear information or nearby support groups to connect with people who understand, we offer the resources you're looking fo (https://www.myeloma.org/patient-caregiver-information)r (https://www.myeloma.org/patient-caregiver-information). Download resources, join advocacy, attend webinars, or connect with us today.