Breast cancer is a growing concern for U.S. veterans and military service members. While breast cancer affects over 316,000 individuals each year, it is especially challenging for those who serve our country.
What is the need?
In the United States:
- There are currently over 2 million female veterans and 14 million male veterans.
- 800 veterans are diagnosed with breast cancer each year through Veterans Affairs Health Care alone.
- Military women are up to 40% more likely to develop breast cancer than civilians.
- Military men get breast cancer, too. While male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, men tend to present at more advanced stages of the disease and have a higher mortality rate.
- Breast cancer is a condition presumed to be related to military service for those exposed to toxins while serving.
- Over 1 million veterans live below the poverty level and can’t afford the expense of a cancer diagnosis.
- Many veterans face social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, transportation, and housing costs, that prevent access to timely, quality healthcare.
What is the Military Patient Relief Fund?
To address this growing need, National Breast Cancer Foundation, in partnership with the Jordan Spieth Family Foundation, launched the Military Patient Relief Fund. NBCF will provide financial support to eligible military members diagnosed with breast cancer who face barriers to care, such as:
- Transportation and childcare costs during treatment
- Housing and rent costs due to lack of income
- Groceries to prevent food insecurity
- Expensive prescription co-pays or underinsured treatment costs
The Military Patient Relief Fund is a one-time disbursement of up to $1,000 for eligible service members and veterans.
Eligibility requirements for the Military Patient Relief Fund
The Military Patient Relief Fund application is open to all active-duty service members of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, Reserves, or National Guard, as well as veterans who served in those branches and received an honorable discharge, general discharge, or medical discharge.
Applicants must be in active treatment for breast cancer, or have been in treatment within the last 12 months. Applicants must have a current financial hardship and be under 500% of the federal poverty level.
To apply for the Military Patient Relief Fund
- Complete the online application
- Submit evidence of military status (copy of Military ID, DD-214, etc.)
- Agree to complete a post-funding survey if funds are awarded
To apply for the Military Patient Relief Fund, click here:
Military Patient Relief Fund FAQs
- Are family members of military service members and veterans able to apply?
- What can I expect after I apply?
At this time, we are only accepting applications from military members and veterans. We hope to be able to open the application to eligible family members of veterans and active-duty service members in the future.
After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by a committee to determine if funds will be awarded. All applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision, whether awarded or denied, within 60 days. If awarded, you must verify your address with NBCF. If awarded, a one-time disbursement of up to $1,000 will be mailed to you.
Military Patient Relief Fund Community Partners
We are thankful to our community partners who make patient support services, such as the Military Patient Relief Fund, possible.
Resources for Service Members and Veterans
NBCF’s mission is to provide help and inspire hope to those affected by breast cancer through early detection, education, and support services. Whether you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or want to learn more about breast health and the importance of early detection, we have free resources available for you.
Early Detection
Learn more about the early detection of breast cancer, including the signs and symptoms, how to perform a breast self-exam, and mammograms.
Free Educational Guides & eBooks
Access our library of free downloadable resources, including digital eBooks and guides to learn more about breast cancer, healthy living, and more.
National Mammography Program
NBCF’s National Mammography Program provides free and low-cost mammograms to women in need nationwide. Search for a participating facility near you.
Patient Navigation Program
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, a patient navigator can help guide you through the complex cancer care system. Your local Veterans Affairs Medical Center offers free patient navigation services to military veterans. You can contact them directly or use the link below to find a patient navigator in your area.
Questions?
Submit the contact form below or email us at [email protected].