Patient Advocate Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals facing serious, chronic or life-threatening illnesses — including cancer — overcome barriers to care. Through professional case management, direct financial support, co-pay relief, insurance and employment advocacy, and educational resources, PAF works to ensure patients get the medical treatment they need without undue financial or administrative burden.

Main Programs & Services

Case Management & Navigation: PAF case managers help patients and families negotiate with insurance companies, employers, lenders or creditors; appeal denials; coordinate care; stabilize finances; and handle other challenges linked to serious illness or treatment.

Financial Aid & Relief Funds: PAF manages many specialized funds — for example covering non-medical costs (transportation, lodging, nutrition), co-payments for treatments or prescriptions, and expenses related to clinical trial participation — depending on diagnosis and eligibility.

Co-Pay Relief Program: For patients with insurance but facing high co-pays or treatment costs, PAF helps reduce or cover those costs to improve access to necessary care.

Survivor Scholarship Program: For individuals who have survived cancer or chronic illness and are pursuing undergraduate or graduate education. PAF has awarded hundreds of scholarships totaling over $1 million.

Educational & Empowerment Resources: PAF provides informational materials, brochures, and resources to help patients understand their rights, available services, healthcare options, and insurance/financial matters.