Cancer patients who are immunocompromised face unique risks during this pandemic, in addition to the everyday stressors in managing their disease and accessing the care they need. Communities of color, particularly African Americans and Latinx, have been hit hard and disproportionately by the COVID-19 pandemic – including challenges in accessing healthcare and now, due to the economic impact of the crisis, many face financial hardships.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) COVID-19 Patient Financial Aid Program launched on April 1, 2020, less than three weeks after the National Emergency was declared. The program provided $250 to eligible blood cancer patients experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic. This assistance helped offset non-medical expenses such as food and other household expenses, rent and transportation.

19,381 patients assisted from April 1, 2020 to June 23, 2020. $3.9 million of the total $4,8 million assistance provided was utilized as of August 31, 2020. 17% of patients assisted identified as black or African-American, 12% identified as Hispanic/Latino, and 2% identified as Asian. Patients made over 117,000 purchases with their award. More than 50% of patients used their award within three weeks of receiving funding. More than 70% of patients utilized over 90% of their award within the first five months. Looking across the most rural counties in the US, assistance was provided to patients in 25% of these counties.

Susan Goss Brown, Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer LLS