Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be one of the most frightening experiences of a person’s life. As he or she battles through the difficulties such a disease can have, fearing for life is not an unrealistic feeling. On top of these difficulties, expenses relating to treatment continue to mount, and even if individuals do make it to remission, they may still face overwhelming medical debt.
Texas readers may be interested in one out-of-state woman who faced such a predicament. Reports stated that she had to deal with not just one but two cancer diagnoses in a five-year span. While battling breast cancer, she lost her job and insurance. Just years later, she ended up also having to face colon cancer.
Though she did obtain new employment, her medical bills got to a point where she could not handle them and creditors were constantly calling. As a result, she chose to file for bankruptcy. She is far from the only person to have to deal with such issues, as approximately one out of every five Americans faces outstanding balances associated with medical costs.
When contending with a serious medical issue, focusing on one’s health should be the top priority. However, due to the costs that can come along with medical care, many people may second guess whether they should even seek treatment. Dealing with medical debt can be a difficult journey, but looking into bankruptcy may be worthwhile. Understanding the different types and options could allow interested Texas residents to determine whether this relief method could help them.
Source: NBC Chicago, “Nearly 1 in 5 Americans Has Crippling Medical Debt“, Chris Coffey, March 12, 2018