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Caring for the Whole Family: Financial Challenges in Pediatric Oncology

When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family’s life is turned upside down. The emotional impact is profound, and for some families, the financial toll can be equally overwhelming. Families often face reduced household income; either because a caregiver must take a leave from work, or reduce work hours, while simultaneously managing significant out-of-pocket costs related to treatment. These costs can include medications not fully covered by insurance; over-the-counter medications; travel expenses; parking fees; meals and accommodation, especially when treatment requires travelling far from home. Rising expenses for essentials such as gas, groceries, and daily living necessities only add to this strain, making it increasingly difficult for families to manage the financial impact of cancer treatment.

Pediatric oncology nurses are often entrusted with the stories of families facing significant challenges throughout their child’s treatment, including financial difficulties. It is essential to be well informed about the resources available to support these families to know how to guide them to the appropriate services that can help alleviate their financial burdens. By doing so, it ensures comprehensive care, addressing not only the medical needs but also the emotional and financial well-being of the family.

In Ontario, private and provincial financial assistance programs play a vital role in reducing this burden, allowing families to focus on their child’s care rather than financial stress. Many of these programs are income-based, ensuring those with the greatest financial need receive the support required. A patient’s social worker and POGO Interlink Nurse work closely with families to assess their financial needs throughout treatment and identify which programs are available and most appropriate.

Briar O’Neil and Emily White, Interlink Nurses at McMaster Children’s Hospital

While available financial resources can vary between hospitals and geographic regions, the POGO Financial Assistance Program provides support to every family experiencing childhood cancer across Ontario, regardless of income. The program offers financial relief by reimbursing some of the costs incurred as a result of a child’s cancer treatment. Even with these programs, some families still face substantial financial challenges, especially when treatment involves frequent travel or extended hospital stays.

Many of these financial relief programs for families are accessible during a child’s active treatment, but for some families, the need for financial support does not end when treatment is complete. Funding for families who require access to rehabilitative services post-treatment highlights a current gap in financial support available in Ontario.

Continued financial relief after treatment is critical in ensuring families can access essential rehabilitative care or recover from the significant impact of a cancer diagnosis on their financial situation. Having the knowledge about what supports exist, and who to refer to for further guidance, can be an essential part of supporting children living with and beyond cancer, and their families.

In addition to hospital and provincially-supported programs, families may benefit from the following financial resources:

Families are also encouraged to check with their hospital foundation, as many offer patient and family support programs that may help offset treatment‑related expenses.

Please note that availability may vary by institution and region. Be sure to check whether your organization is affiliated with these or other community partners that provide financial support to families.

This story was written for the spring 2026 issue of The RePORTer, POGO’s Nursing Newsletter, by McMaster Children’s Hospital Interlink Nurses, Briar O’Neil, RN, BScN, and Emily White, RN, BScN.