By Nikki Jennings, Resource Coordinator
A key part of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation’s Resource Coordination Program is staying connected with leading cancer support organizations. These partnerships help us share the latest tools and information to support you along your breast cancer journey. These wonderful community connections continue to help us create a resource hub that you and your loved ones can rely on when new questions arise.
Spotlight: Triage Cancer
One of the key challenges to making your treatment and recovery process as smooth as possible is navigating health insurance and finances. In this blog, we’re excited to highlight the fantastic work of Triage Cancer©—a national organization that provides some of the most comprehensive education and support for navigating insurance, finances, and legal concerns that can add extra burdens to a patient’s journey.
Triage Cancer offers clear, compassionate guidance on the complex issues that affect your care, including insurance, employment, and legal rights. Understanding your coverage and available resources is vital, as it can significantly impact treatment options and financial stability. Many patients struggle with complex insurance terminology during this challenging time, so finding trustworthy, easy-to-understand resources is essential.
My Experience with Triage
I attended Triage’s Insurance & Finance Intensive training earlier this year. I walked away with practical insights and tools designed to make the process less overwhelming for patients and caregivers alike. Read on for some of my takeaways and links to our favorite resource tools to get you started!
Understanding Insurance
Learning insurance terminology, finding coverage, & understanding how your plan works can be a huge hurdle.
Only 4% of Americans can define the top four insurance terms–deductible, co-insurance, co-pay, and out-of-pocket maximum. (2017 PolicyGenius Health Literacy Survey)
Start here:
- Health Insurance Basics – Learn terminology, compare plans, and find the right coverage.
- Cancer Rights Guides – Downloadable resources for patients, caregivers, and young adults (also in Spanish).
- Webinar: Understanding Health Insurance – A helpful walkthrough if you want to enroll or switch coverage.
Financial Toxicity: What It Is & What You Can Do
“Financial toxicity” is a term coined by researchers at Duke who discovered that out-of-pocket expenses related to treatment can diminish quality of life—just like physical side effects.
- Checklist to Avoid Financial Toxicity – Organize your info and spot red flags early.
- CancerFinances.org – Interactive tools tailored to your situation.
- Triage Health Program – Learn how to pick a plan, manage bills, and access benefits.
Legal & Employment Rights
98% of patients experience physical, emotional, or practical concerns during treatment—but only 20% get help. (LIVESTRONG, 2010)
VBCF is committed to bridging that gap. With partners like Triage, we can help you get connected to legal and financial guidance that fits your needs.
- Legal & Financial Navigation Program – One-on-one guidance from experts.
- Virginia-Specific Resources – Find help with disability, housing, and healthcare.
- Charts of State Laws – Understand your rights in Virginia around Medicaid, estate planning, insurance, and more.
Appealing Insurance Denials
Between 2016 and 2020, insurance claim denials increased by 23%. But 40–60% of external appeals are approved. (Triage Cancer Insurance & Finance Intensive, 2025)
You don’t have to take “no” for an answer. If you’ve been denied coverage, you may still have options.
- Quick Guide to Appeals – Three key steps for appealing a denial.
- Animated Video: When an Insurance Company Says No – A quick and helpful explainer.
- Webinar: Health Insurance Appeals – Deep dive into what to expect and how to prepare.
More from Triage:
- Triage Cancer Events – Register for a wide range of free events, including webinars, conferences, Advocate Training, and more.
- Free Educational Materials – Guides, checklists, and printables.
- ‘How to Triage Cancer’ Podcast – Each episode breaks down different legal & practical issues for patients, caregivers, and providers.
- Triage Cancer’s Newsletter – Subscribe here for monthly updates sent right to your email.
- ¿Necesitas recursos en español? – Most resources are available in Spanish.
Need Help?
Have questions or need help finding something specific? Reach out to our Resource Coordinator, Nikki Jennings: 📧 nikki@vbcf.org | ☎ 800-345-8223 x205
You’re Not Alone
Whether you need help understanding insurance, affording care, or knowing your rights, VBCF is here to connect you with the resources you need. We’re committed to making sure no Virginian walks their breast cancer journey unsupported.
