When you are diagnosed with breast cancer, a stack of parking receipts, pharmacy bills and missed days of work is likely the last thing on your mind. But for so many, these hidden costs are a reality during treatment and recovery.
We know our healthcare system covers most medical services, which is why many people are surprised to learn just how many expenses can pop up during treatment. Some things may seem relatively minor on their own, but they can add up quickly, causing something small to turn into a mountain over time. Others can have a much bigger impact, especially if treatment affects your ability to work or care for your family. These are enormous burdens that can be hard to see past.
Having a better sense of what these costs might look like can make it easier to plan ahead and find support before the financial stress starts to build up.
Transportation and Parking
One of the most common unexpected expenses is getting to and from treatment. There are often many appointments with your doctors, imaging tests, consultations, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, follow-ups and more. Traveling to all of these appointments, or relying on family to help you get there, can put mileage on your vehicle, add to already high gas bills, or require time navigating public transportation.
If you’re driving, then you have to consider the parking costs at hospitals or medical offices, which are often not free. Costs can vary across Canada. Some hospitals in larger cities may charge upwards of $25 per day, while others may charge be around $10. Either way, frequent appointments can mean hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses over time.
If you live in a rural or remote area where treatment is not close to home, you may find yourself paying for air travel, accommodations, taxis and meals to access the care you need.
There are a few ways to reduce these costs:
- Ask your cancer centre whether they offer discounted parking passes
- Keep your receipts related to any medical travel, as some may be eligible for tax deductions
- Research grants, programs or volunteer services available in your community through provincial or local support organizations
Medical and Treatment-Related Expenses
It’s an unfortunate reality in parts of Canada that some medications prescribed for treating breast cancer may not always be fully covered. Newer medications may not yet have completed the complex drug funding process needed for public coverage.
Even when a medication has completed the approval process, not all provinces choose to add it to their public drug plans. Coverage can vary depending on your province, age, income and private insurance plan. Many people assume that all cancer treatments and related medications are fully covered, but it is not always true. In some provinces, certain oral cancer medications taken at home may not be covered in the same way as treatments administered in a hospital. As a result, some people face significant out-of-pocket costs unless they have private insurance or qualify for provincial drug programs. Adding to this, you may need other medications to help manage side effects like nausea, pain, infection or sleep difficulties.
Reviewing your prescription drug coverage early can help you plan for these gaps. Determine what is covered by your private insurance, if you have it, and what you are eligible to receive through public drug plans. Your pharmacist may be able to suggest lower-cost options, while your hospital may have drug access navigators available to assist with reimbursement.
Finally, speak with your healthcare team about any financial concerns you may have. Social workers, patient navigators and pharmacists may be aware of patient assistance programs or other financial support options.
Recovery Supplies and Services
Following surgery, you may need a mastectomy bra or breast prosthesis. You might also need compression garments to help manage lymphedema or physiotherapy to reduce your risk of developing it. You may also choose to buy wigs, scarves or other head coverings if you experience hair loss during systemic therapy.
These can significantly improve your day-to-day life, but the costs can add up quickly. Before purchasing any supplies, check whether your private insurance provides coverage. Many plans offer at least partial reimbursement for prostheses, compression garments or physiotherapy. Certified fitters at mastectomy boutiques are often familiar with government funding programs and insurance requirements.
Finally, reach out to local charities or community programs that may also provide financial assistance.
Lost Income
While parking, recovery supplies and prescriptions add up, the added burden of losing your income can have one of the biggest impacts on your finances.
Side effects, treatment schedules and recovery might make it especially difficult for you to continue working at the same capacity as before. Some people take medical leave, while others may reduce hours or adjust their workload.
If you are employed, explore the benefits available through your workplace. You may be able to access short-term disability, long-term disability or sick leave. Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits may also be available for eligible people who are unable to work due to illness.
Planning Ahead
Every story is different, and every financial challenge comes with its own unique impact. How it affects you and your family will depend on multiple circumstances, including your treatment plan, where you live and what kind of support is available to you.
Start by asking questions, reviewing your benefits, keeping receipts, creating a budget and discussing it with your healthcare team. You may not see it, but there may be more support available than you realize.
Receive updates by email 
