Financial concerns

It’s possible that a diagnosis of heart failure may raise important financial concerns for you and your partner or relative. Healthcare systems differ between countries and everyone’s situation is different. However, the following suggestions may help you start dealing with any financial matters you need to consider.

• Understand your partner or relative’s health insurance plan(s). If your partner or relative has a health insurance plan, clarify with them what is covered and what effect their heart failure diagnosis may have on the policy. It’s important to bear in mind that some of the newest advances in treatment for heart failure (new medicines, procedures) are still technically “under investigation” in clinical studies, so an insurance plan may not cover them. Speak with your partner or relative’s doctor about any questions you may have in this area or go directly to the healthcare insurer.
• If necessary, seek financial assistance for treatment costs. It’s essential for heart failure patients to take all their medicines as prescribed. You can speak to your doctor or nurse about this or they may be able to refer you to a social services department that can help with or advise on any financial issues.
• Look at household finances. If the person with heart failure is the main breadwinner or contributes significantly to the household income, then you and your family may well have to make some financial adjustments if they are not able to work to the extent they were before. If your partner or relative has disability insurance you may be able to make a claim on this.