Hearing the news that you or a loved one has received a cancer diagnosis is like taking a punch to the gut. Sadness and hopelessness are overwhelming emotions that can make time stand still.
Fortunately in the State of Maryland, cancer patients have several resources to help them navigate the long journey towards recovery. With the help of a licensed oncologist that documents every treatment, you might be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Large Maryland cities like Baltimore, Annapolis, and Bethesda are home to cancer support groups that ensure you do not have to fight the disease alone.
Oncologists in Maryland
One of the keys to beating cancer involves finding the right oncologist to treat the disease and help you manage the symptoms. You should consider an oncologist that has established a record of treating cancer, as well as knowing exactly how to manage your symptoms by using both medications and nutritional tools.
Your oncologist also must have a direct connection with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to file the proper patient paperwork in a timely manner. The SSA refers to a list of benefit guidelines published in the organization’s Blue Book that an oncologist can examine to see if you qualify for benefits.
Contact any of the following medical centers for an oncologist referral:
John Hopkins Oncology Center
Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Building
401 N. Broadway, #1100
Baltimore, MD
(410) 955-8842
AAMC Oncology and Hematology
2003 Medical Parkway, #210
Annapolis, MD
(443) 481-4884
Associates in Oncology/Hematology
6420 Rockledge Drive, #4200
Bethesda, MD
(301) 929-0765
Cancer Support Groups
One piece of advice given by accomplished oncologists is for patients to have positive attitudes while fighting cancer. Words of encouragement from friends and family members will help you stay in the right frame of mind, as well as the wisdom delivered by the fellow cancer patients you meet at support group meetings.
Many cancer support groups welcome guest speakers from the medical community that offer advice on how to deal with the potentially life threatening disease. Cancer patients have numerous support group options in Maryland.
Baltimore Cancer Support Group
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
7910 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD
Meet every Thursday at 7:00 pm
Wellness House of Annapolis
Survivors Support Group
2625 Mas Que Farm Road
Annapolis, MD
Meets on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month from 2:00-3:30 pm
(410) 990-0941
Hope Connections for Cancer Support
Beaumont House at FASEB
9650 Rockville Pile
Bethesda, MD
Call (301) 634-7500 for dates and times
Applying for Social Security Benefits to Fight Cancer in Maryland
Cancer patients should not have to worry about personal finances during the time it takes to beat the disease. The SSA offers financial aid for patients that meet specific criteria, such as loss of employment for 12 consecutive months or receiving a diagnosis of terminal cancer.
You can apply for SSDI online to avoid long lines at SSA centers. However, you eventually must meet with a case worker at any of the SSA centers operating in Maryland.
SSA Baltimore
6100A Wabash Avenue
Baltimore, MD
(866) 752-0973
SSA Annapolis
185 Harry S. Truman Parkway, #114
Annapolis, MD
(800) 772-1213
SSA Bethesda
315 N. Washington Street
Rockville, MD
(800) 772-1213
Social Security Disability Lawyer
The last piece of the cancer support puzzle is to work with a licensed SSDI lawyer. Your lawyer not only ensures the timely filing of paperwork, but also represents you if you experience discrimination because of a cancer diagnosis.
Speak with a Social Security disability lawyer to ensure you receive the best legal representation. Our Free Disability Evaluation to be connected with an attorney in your area that can assist you in having a successful application.
