Cancer Care Expenses in Canada | Cost Estimator & Guide
Cancer Care Cost Estimator
Estimate the monthly financial impact of cancer treatment in Canada. Values are based on 2026 national averages.
Canadian Cancer Cost Guide
Understanding the financial side of a cancer diagnosis in Canada is critical. While our healthcare system covers many hospital-based treatments, “hidden” costs are substantial.
Direct Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Take-Home Medications: Oral chemotherapy and immunotherapy drugs are often not fully covered by provincial health plans if taken at home. Patients may face deductibles or co-pays ranging from $500 to over $3,000 per month depending on the province.
Medical Supplies: Items such as wound dressings, specialized nutrition, and wigs are typically the patient’s responsibility.
Indirect & Travel Costs
The “Travel Burden”: Rural Canadians face much higher costs. Travel for daily radiation or weekly chemo can result in thousands of dollars in fuel and hotel bills.
Parking Fees: One of the most common complaints in Canadian cancer care, hospital parking can cost $15–$30 per visit, which adds up quickly during multi-week treatment cycles.
The Income Gap
EI Sickness Benefits: As of 2026, Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits provide up to 26 weeks of coverage. However, the maximum amount is often significantly lower than a patient’s regular salary, creating a “income gap” that many families find difficult to bridge.
Caregiver Impact: Family members often take unpaid leave to assist with appointments, leading to a secondary loss of household income.
Financial Assistance Resources
If the calculator shows a significant deficit, consider these Canadian resources:
Canadian Cancer Society (CCS): Offers programs like Wheels of Hope for transportation assistance.
Provincial Drug Programs: Look into the Trillium Drug Program (Ontario), Fair PharmaCare (BC), or similar income-based programs in your province.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC): A non-refundable tax credit that helps people with impairments (or their supporting family members) reduce their income tax.
