Financial Assistance, Compensation, and Legal Rights
Because malignant mesothelioma is related to asbestos exposure, many people with the disease have questions about whether or not they can be compensated. There are several potential sources of financial assistance and/or compensation for people with mesothelioma.

Asbestos Industry
People are often surprised to find out that the largest amounts of compensation typically available can be recovered from the asbestos industry. These awards are often large enough to provide financial security for families. There are law firms who handle such cases on a contingency fee basis which does not require out of pocket cost.

Social Security Disability
Patients can also file a disability claim with social security. (It's advisable to consult with an attorney that specializes in such claims.)



Disability Insurance
Many people can also file a disability claim if they have disability insurance either privately, through their employer, or as part of a life insurance policy.



Worker's Compensation
If asbestos exposure occurred on the job, in addition to claims against the asbestos industry, a worker's compensation claim or other types of legal action may be filed against an employer. Again, it is advisable to consult with an attorney handling worker's compensation claims. It is prudent to consult also with an attorney handling claims against the asbestos industry to make sure the various claims do not conflict with your optimal strategy.



For More Legal Information
To find out more information or to see some questions commonly asked about mesothelioma legal issues, call 1-800-998-9729.



Health Insurance
For people facing large medical bills and hospital stays, most hospitals have Discharge Planners or other personnel who can assist with issues of medical coverage and hospice. There are also laws that allow patients to take legal action against their insurance company for unfairly denying them coverage for medical treatment.



Coping with Cancer
Mesothelioma Aid - http://www.mesothelioma-aid.org offers excellent advice for living with cancer, including sections on emotional coping and physical coping with mesothelioma. The website also outlines common health insurance plans and offers information on paying for your medical care in a section on financial planning for mesothelioma patients.