Eligibility

To be eligible for the funds a patient must meet the following guidelines:

  • Be a resident of West Virginia 1 year prior to the date of onset/diagnosis.
  • Have a condition that meets the definition of Catastrophic Illness, which means there is imminent risk of death if assistance does not occur.
  • Have exhausted all other resources, including Medicaid and Hill-Burton Funds.
  • An eligible applicant must apply for and be denied coverage by Medicaid, except in certain specific situations.

Learn more about additional options for healthcare coverage and other assistance opportunities listed below.

  • Applying for Healthcare - Medicaid, West Virginia Children's Health Insurance Program, or Private Insurance at the Health Insurance Marketplace from the WV Bureau for Medical Services webpage
  • Health Insurance Marketplace - 800-813-2596 - direct phone number and online link to the federal government's program through the Affordable Healthcare Act to apply for full coverage plans at reduced monthly costs to you
  • WV Navigators - By calling 844-982-2737, a free service in West Virginia, you can receive information and advice based on your needs to select one of the Health Insurance Marketplace plans mentioned above. You may want to talk to them first before deciding on a plan.
  • West Virginia 211 - Get help paying bills, finding food, and locating other resources near you. Call 211 for confidential help from a caring expert. You can also search their database on their website.
  • FindHelp.org - Search and connect to financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help in your community, state, and nationwide.
  • Medical Co-Pay Assistance - There are a number of non-profit organizations that provide medical co-pay assistance (and other assistance) to people who qualify for their programs. Simply search the Internet using keywords "medical co-pay assistance" to find organizations such as the Patient Advocate Foundation or the Healthwell Foundation. You can add your medical diagnosis with the other keywords to search to see if there may be additional help for a specific illness.
  • Breast Cancer Assistance in West Virginia - The following entities work in partnership with the Catastrophic Illness Commission to assist qualified individuals receive free and or low cost mammograms, screenings, treatments, travel, and peer support.