Can medical travel be reimbursed somehow?

[ExcuseMyIgnorance]

In 2001, my dad got kidney cancer. He went to M.D. Andersen to have it treated. Despite the cancer part, he really enjoyed the experience. He's been cancer free ever since.

Last week, his doctor told him they noticed lesions on his remaining kidney (the other was completely removed). They couldn't biopsy it or risk spreading whatever's inside. Without doing anything else, dad set an appointment in TX. Mom and dad are leaving today.

Their insurance is pretty sucky - Conventry One - that's all I know. Travel isn't covered.

It just seems so unfair that an insurance company won't pay for traveling to the best hospital for treatment. Is there a way to get it covered somehow? Probably not but just thought I'd get your thoughts..

[corn18]

It is tax deductible, so that may help a little bit.

[FLA]

isn't it only helpful on taxes if you've reached that certain percentage of your income going towards medical? it used to be 7%, I have to look it up myself

can he ride in the car? American Cancer Society has free ride programs and some volunteers will actually drive that far. If a plane would work, look into Angel Flights, they are wonderful.

I've had patients go to Boston and NYC, if they asked, the hospital often has vouchers for a nearby hotel so you end up paying $40 in a major city and don't have to do the trip in one day

good luck to you and your family

[ExcuseMyIgnorance]

isn't it only helpful on taxes if you've reached that certain percentage of your income going towards medical? it used to be 7%, I have to look it up myself

can he ride in the car? American Cancer Society has free ride programs and some volunteers will actually drive that far. If a plane would work, look into Angel Flights, they are wonderful.

I've had patients go to Boston and NYC, if they asked, the hospital often has vouchers for a nearby hotel so you end up paying $40 in a major city and don't have to do the trip in one day

good luck to you and your family

Those are good ideas but my parents can afford the flights without much concern. I'd just rather they didn't have to spend all that money. :/

[Joan.of.the.Arch]

Those are good ideas but my parents can afford the flights without much concern. I'd just rather they didn't have to spend all that money. :/

If it is a matter of wanting to spare them the stress of thinking about the additional expense, maybe you or you and your brother could kindly insist on covering the travel and lodging. That's what I'd want to do for my parents, regardless of whether any of my siblings wanted to or could chip in. Also, maybe you could make sure things like lawn mowing and pet care get done while they are away. Get them set up with skype or something to communicate back home while they are away, if they will be gone an extended time.