As anyone who has faced the high cost of health care knows, cancer treatment is expensive. Fees for tests, treatments, consultations, and other medical necessities―even when a patient is covered by insurance―often exceed the limits of the coverage, and the expenses mount rapidly. In most cases, patients are left paying out of pocket for any additional costs, such as those incurred in travel. And with many high-level cancer centers located in urban areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, or Boston, it’s easy to see how simply getting to see one’s doctor or traveling to an infusion center, for example, can quickly become an unmanageable economic burden.
To help take some of this load off the minds of patients and their families, Airbnb has partnered with the Cancer Support Community to offer welcome relief for many. Now, AONN+ members have a new resource to share with patients who must travel away from home to receive treatment. The recently expanded Airbnb Open Homes program will give FREE temporary housing to patients and their families who require medical stays. The lodging is provided by Airbnb’s generous hosts and accommodations are available in some of the costliest areas. The housing will provide a comfortable and homey place to rest and recuperate after receiving treatment, and, best of all, it alleviates the stress of paying for lodging near one’s healthcare facility.
Patients must apply and be verified, and there are income and other criteria to satisfy. But Airbnb has an overall goal of housing 100,000 people in need by 2022 through its various programs. If you know of someone who would benefit from this program, direct them to the Cancer Support Community Airbnb web page for the most recent qualifying criteria or contact the Airbnb Helpline, 877-793-0498, to receive an application on behalf of a patient.
