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The Franciscan Health Foundation has received a $45,000 grant from the American Cancer Society aimed at aiding cancer patients who require transportation and lodging during their treatment, according to an announcement made recently. This funding is part of a larger $9 million initiative to assist nearly 63,000 eligible patients nationwide, ensuring access to approximately 800,000 transportation and lodging services.
The Franciscan Health Foundation was awarded two distinct grants: one allotting $10,000 for transportation and another providing $35,000 for lodging costs. These grants are designed to help cancer patients and their families manage the expenses related to fuel and hotel accommodations.
Tom King, administrative director of oncology for Franciscan Health in Central Indiana, commented: “We have many patients and caregivers who travel long distances to receive our services, and they often need to find lodging for a night or sometimes even longer. The cost of fuel and hotel stays add up quickly, making the importance of these funds even greater. We are very appreciative of the American Cancer Society providing these grants.”
The American Cancer Society points to research from a 2023 study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, which indicates that delays in care due to transportation difficulties are linked with elevated emergency room visits and mortality risk in adults, regardless of cancer history.
Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society, stated: “Transportation obstacles or the cost of a hotel room should not be barriers that determine the survival of those needing cancer treatment. Partnering with health systems and organizations across the country to provide funding to deliver the direct assistance needed helps to fill these equity gaps and improves cancer outcomes.”
The transportation assistance includes providing gas cards and Lyft rides, while the lodging grant will fund accommodations in several hotels located near the Franciscan Health Cancer Center in Indianapolis. The foundation ensures that patients and caregivers are not financially burdened for their stay.
There is no requirement for financial need documentation for patients to benefit from this program, with a focus on maintaining treatment consistency in processes such as radiation and chemotherapy.
Both organizations have a history of collaborating on grants to support cancer care accessibility.
