Cancer Support Resources in Kansas
Kansas patients outside Wichita and the Kansas City metro can face drives of two hours or more to reach a cancer specialist — particularly in western counties like Garden City, Dodge City, and Liberal. The state’s vast geography and agricultural character shape a cancer care landscape where distance is the defining challenge, and where the non-medical burdens of treatment — travel, lodging, lost wages, isolation — can become as difficult to manage as the diagnosis itself.
Western Kansas is one of the most sparsely served regions in the country for oncology. The towns that anchor the western half of the state — Colby, Liberal, Dodge City, Garden City — have regional hospitals that provide general medical care, but specialized cancer treatment almost universally requires travel to Wichita or Kansas City. For a patient in a small farming community in Clark or Stevens County, a round trip to a cancer center can mean six or more hours of driving — and that trip may need to happen weekly for months. When winter closes roads, the barrier becomes even higher.
Agricultural chemical exposure is a genuine cancer risk factor across much of Kansas. Pesticide and herbicide use in farming communities has been linked to elevated rates of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and certain leukemias, particularly among farmers and farmworkers with decades of exposure. Many Kansas farmers are navigating cancer diagnoses that may be connected to their working lives. Several organizations that work specifically with agricultural families are listed in this directory.
The Kansas City metro sits at an unusual crossroads — the metropolitan area spans the state line, and resources, hospitals, and insurance networks don’t observe that line cleanly. Patients on the Kansas side may find the best cancer care option across the border at a Missouri facility, which creates insurance network complications that require navigation. The University of Kansas Cancer Center in Kansas City is a major NCI-designated resource anchoring care for northeast Kansas, but patients in rural western and southwestern counties remain far from its reach.
Rural aging compounds everything. Kansas has one of the older rural populations in the Midwest, and many cancer patients in small towns are elderly, living alone, and without the support network that makes managing a serious illness easier. Caregiver support programs and patient navigation services are especially important for older adults in isolated communities who may not know what help is available or how to access it.
Kansas has a significant military and veteran community centered around Fort Riley near Junction City and McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, as well as a large population of veterans settled across the state after service. Veterans facing cancer diagnoses tied to service-related exposures may qualify for VA oncology services and benefits through the VA facilities in Topeka and Wichita.
Whether you are a patient in treatment, a survivor moving forward, a caregiver holding it all together, or a social worker looking for referrals — this page is for you. Resources are organized starting with statewide programs, then by region across the state.
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Statewide Resources
These organizations serve all of Kansas — by phone, online, or through regional offices. Start here if you are unsure where to look.
American Cancer Society — Kansas
📍 Statewide (offices in Wichita, Kansas City area)
The ACS provides free rides to treatment through Road to Recovery, a 24/7 helpline staffed by cancer information specialists, and connections to local support groups across Kansas. Their Hope Lodge network may serve Kansas patients traveling out of state for specialized treatment.
- 24/7 helpline: 1-800-227-2345
- Road to Recovery free transportation
- Support groups and online community
- Look Good Feel Better program
Who: All cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
Kansas Cancer Partnership
📍 Statewide
A coalition of organizations working to reduce the burden of cancer in Kansas through the Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan. They coordinate resources across the state, track cancer data, and connect patients with programs for screening, prevention, and survivorship support.
- Statewide cancer prevention and control coordination
- Resource referrals for patients and families
- Cancer data and community health assessments
- Connection to screening programs
Who: All Kansas residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
CancerCare
📍 Statewide (phone and online)
Every counselor at CancerCare is a licensed oncology social worker. They provide free one-on-one counseling by phone, online support groups, and limited financial help for copays and transportation. No office visit needed — they serve anyone in Kansas remotely.
- Individual counseling with oncology social workers
- Telephone and online support groups
- Financial assistance for treatment costs
- Caregiver-specific programs
Who: Cancer patients, caregivers, and bereaved loved ones
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Kansas Department of Health & Environment — Early Detection Works
📍 Statewide
Kansas’s state-funded program providing free breast and cervical cancer screenings for uninsured and underinsured women. If cancer is detected, the program helps women enroll in Medicaid for treatment coverage. This is a critical safety net, especially in rural counties where screening access is limited.
- Free mammograms and Pap tests
- Diagnostic follow-up services
- Medicaid enrollment after diagnosis
- Phone: 877-277-1368
Who: Uninsured/underinsured women ages 40-64
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-277-1368
KanCare (Kansas Medicaid)
📍 Statewide
Kansas operates its Medicaid program through KanCare, managed by three private insurance companies. Cancer patients who meet income requirements can receive full treatment coverage. The Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program provides Medicaid eligibility specifically for women diagnosed through the Early Detection Works screening program.
- Full coverage for cancer treatment
- Prescription drug coverage
- Breast and cervical cancer treatment program
- Phone: 800-792-4884
Who: Low-income Kansas residents
Cost: Free or very low cost
Phone: 800-792-4884
Midwest Cancer Alliance
📍 Statewide (network across Kansas)
The outreach and community network of the University of Kansas Cancer Center. Midwest Cancer Alliance partners with hospitals and clinics throughout Kansas to bring NCI-quality cancer care closer to home. Their network includes partner sites in Salina, Hays, Dodge City, Garden City, and other communities — reducing the need for long drives to Kansas City.
- NCI-quality care at local partner hospitals
- Clinical trial access in community settings
- Patient navigation across the state
- Telemedicine consultations with KU specialists
Who: All Kansas cancer patients
Cost: Varies (insurance accepted)
Phone: 2-1-1
Patient Advocate Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone-based)
Provides case managers who work one-on-one with patients to resolve insurance denials, negotiate medical debt, and connect patients with copay assistance programs. They also offer a Co-Pay Relief Program for specific cancer diagnoses.
- Insurance appeals and denials help
- Medical debt negotiation
- Co-Pay Relief Program
- Phone: 800-532-5274
Who: All cancer patients with financial or insurance barriers
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-532-5274
Joe’s House
📍 Statewide (online directory)
An online resource helping cancer patients find affordable lodging near treatment centers. Especially valuable for rural Kansas patients who need to travel to Kansas City or Wichita for specialized treatment. Lists hotels, hospitality houses, and other options near major cancer centers.
- Searchable database of lodging near treatment centers
- Discounted hotel rates for patients
- Links to hospitality houses
Who: Cancer patients traveling for treatment
Cost: Free to search; lodging costs vary
Phone: 2-1-1
HealthWell Foundation
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Provides financial assistance for prescription copays, premiums, and deductibles. They maintain disease-specific funds for many cancer types. When a fund is open, Kansas patients can apply for help covering the cost of specific cancer medications that would otherwise be unaffordable.
- Copay assistance for cancer medications
- Premium and deductible support
- Disease-specific funds
- Phone: 800-675-8416
Who: Insured patients who cannot afford out-of-pocket costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-675-8416
Cancer Support Community — Kansas
📍 Statewide (online programs)
Offers free support groups, educational workshops, and mind-body programs for cancer patients and caregivers. Their online Cancer Support Helpline connects Kansas patients with licensed counselors. The Cancer Experience Registry helps patients track and share their experiences for better care.
- Online and phone support groups
- Cancer Support Helpline: 888-793-9355
- Educational workshops and webinars
- Caregiver support programs
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 888-793-9355
Kansas Food Bank
📍 Statewide (distribution network)
Serves 85 counties in Kansas through a network of over 800 partner agencies. Cancer patients dealing with food insecurity during treatment can access local food pantries and meal programs. Their website has a searchable pantry finder to locate the nearest distribution site.
- Network of 800+ food pantries across Kansas
- Emergency food boxes
- Mobile food distributions in rural areas
- No documentation required at most pantries
Who: Anyone experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Kansas Legal Services
📍 Statewide (offices in 10 cities)
Provides free civil legal assistance to low-income Kansans. Cancer patients may need help with insurance disputes, disability applications, advance directives, estate planning, or employment issues. Offices in Wichita, Topeka, Kansas City, Salina, Hays, Garden City, and other locations.
- Free legal help for low-income residents
- SSDI/SSI disability applications
- Advance directives and estate planning
- Phone: 800-723-6953
Who: Low-income Kansas residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-723-6953
Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center — Wichita
📍 Wichita (serves statewide veterans)
The primary VA medical center for Kansas veterans, providing comprehensive cancer care including oncology, radiation therapy, and palliative care. Veterans across Kansas can access VA cancer treatment here, with community-based outpatient clinics in multiple Kansas cities providing local follow-up.
- Full oncology services for veterans
- Community-based outpatient clinics across Kansas
- VA caregiver support program
- Phone: 316-685-2221
Who: Eligible veterans
Cost: Free or low cost with VA eligibility
Phone: 316-685-2221
Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center — Leavenworth
📍 Leavenworth (serves northeast Kansas veterans)
Serves veterans in northeast Kansas and the KC metro area with oncology services. Works closely with the Kansas City VA and University of Kansas Cancer Center for referrals to specialized cancer treatment. Veterans can access care here or be referred to NCI-designated centers through the VA Community Care program.
- Oncology services for northeast Kansas veterans
- VA Community Care referrals
- Social work and caregiver support
- Phone: 913-682-2000
Who: Eligible veterans
Cost: Free or low cost with VA eligibility
Phone: 913-682-2000
Kansas 2-1-1
📍 Statewide
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Kansas to reach the United Way’s free referral line. Trained specialists connect callers with local resources for transportation, housing, food assistance, utility help, and other support services. Available 24/7 and invaluable when you do not know where else to turn.
- 24/7 referral helpline
- Transportation assistance referrals
- Housing and utility help
- Searchable online database
Who: Anyone in Kansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
PAN Foundation (Patient Access Network)
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Helps underinsured patients afford their medications by covering out-of-pocket costs for specific diseases. They maintain funds for many cancer types including breast, lung, colorectal, and blood cancers. Kansas patients with federal or commercial insurance can apply when funds are open.
- Copay assistance for cancer drugs
- Travel assistance for treatment
- Disease-specific funds
- Phone: 866-316-7263
Who: Underinsured cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-316-7263
Kansas City Metro (KS Side)
The Kansas City metro straddles the state line. These resources are on the Kansas side — Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Kansas City KS, Lenexa, and surrounding Johnson and Wyandotte counties. Many Missouri-side resources also serve KS patients.
University of Kansas Cancer Center
📍 Kansas City, KS (Fairway campus & multiple locations)
The only NCI-designated cancer center in the Kansas City region and the entire state of Kansas. Beyond world-class treatment, they offer extensive support services including patient navigation, social work, financial counseling, support groups, integrative oncology, survivorship programs, and access to cutting-edge clinical trials. Their support extends across the state through the Midwest Cancer Alliance network.
- NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center
- Patient navigators and oncology social workers
- Financial assistance and charity care programs
- Support groups and survivorship clinic
- Phone: 913-588-1227
Who: All cancer patients
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 913-588-1227
Cancer Action — Kansas City
📍 Kansas City metro
A local nonprofit providing practical and emotional support to cancer patients in the KC metro area. Their services include free counseling, support groups, wellness programs, art therapy, and a resource library. They serve patients on both sides of the state line and offer programs specifically for caregivers.
- Free counseling and support groups
- Wellness and integrative programs
- Art therapy and creative workshops
- Caregiver support programs
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers in KC metro
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Cancer Center
📍 Merriam / Shawnee, KS
Provides cancer treatment along with a full range of support services including nutrition counseling, social work, chaplaincy, and support groups. Their cancer navigators help patients manage the treatment journey and connect them with community resources in Johnson County.
- Patient navigation services
- Nutrition and dietitian counseling
- Cancer support groups
- Chaplaincy and spiritual care
Who: Cancer patients at AdventHealth
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Olathe Health Cancer Center — Support Services
📍 Olathe, KS
Provides cancer care in southern Johnson County with a dedicated team of oncology social workers and patient navigators. They help patients access financial assistance, transportation, and community support services. Their partnership with the University of Kansas Cancer Center provides access to clinical trials locally.
- Oncology social workers on staff
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Transportation coordination
- Clinical trial access through KU partnership
Who: Cancer patients in south Johnson County
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Children’s Mercy Kansas City — Cancer & Blood Disorders
📍 Kansas City (Overland Park campus & main hospital)
The region’s leading pediatric cancer center, with a campus in Overland Park, KS. Their Division of Hematology/Oncology provides treatment alongside child life specialists, social workers, music therapy, school support, and family navigation services. They serve children from across Kansas and the region.
- Full pediatric oncology program
- Child life and psychosocial support
- School re-entry programs
- Family resource center and parent support
- Phone: 816-234-3000
Who: Children and adolescents with cancer
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 816-234-3000
Rally Foundation — Kansas City Chapter
📍 Kansas City metro
Raises awareness and funds for childhood cancer research while supporting local families. Kansas City chapter hosts events, connects families going through pediatric cancer treatment, and provides information about clinical trials and support resources available in the KC metro area.
- Family connections and peer support
- Childhood cancer awareness events
- Research funding and clinical trial information
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Wyandotte County Community Health Center
📍 Kansas City, KS
A federally qualified health center serving one of Kansas’s most underserved communities. Provides cancer screening referrals, patient navigation, and connections to treatment for uninsured and underinsured residents in Wyandotte County. Bilingual staff serve the area’s large Hispanic population.
- Cancer screening referrals
- Patient navigation for underserved patients
- Bilingual services (English/Spanish)
- Sliding-scale primary care
Who: Uninsured and underinsured residents
Cost: Sliding scale
Phone: 2-1-1
Johnson County Transit (JCT)
📍 Johnson County, KS
Provides demand-response transit services in Johnson County, including rides to medical appointments. Their Special Edition service provides door-to-door rides for residents with disabilities. Cancer patients who cannot drive during treatment can use this service to get to appointments at local cancer centers.
- Medical appointment transportation
- Door-to-door paratransit service
- Affordable fares
- Phone: 913-362-4636
Who: Johnson County residents
Cost: Low cost ($1.50-3.50 per ride)
Phone: 913-362-4636
Harvesters — The Community Food Network
📍 Kansas City metro (KS & MO)
The regional food bank serving northeastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri. Distributes food through a network of pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. Cancer patients struggling with food costs during treatment can access their partner pantries throughout the KC metro including Johnson, Wyandotte, Leavenworth, and Douglas counties.
- Network of food pantries in KC metro
- Mobile food distributions
- BackSnack program for children
- Phone: 816-929-3000
Who: Anyone experiencing food insecurity in the KC region
Cost: Free
Phone: 816-929-3000
Providence Medical Center Cancer Support
📍 Kansas City, KS
Offers cancer treatment along with oncology social work, patient navigation, support groups, and spiritual care services. Located in the heart of KCK, they serve Wyandotte County’s diverse population with culturally sensitive cancer support and connections to local community resources.
- Oncology social workers
- Support groups and counseling
- Spiritual care services
- Community resource connections
Who: Cancer patients in Wyandotte County
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Wichita & South Central Kansas
Wichita is the state’s largest city and the primary cancer treatment hub for south-central and western Kansas. Patients from as far as Dodge City and Liberal often travel here for care.
Cancer Center of Kansas
📍 Wichita (main) & 15+ locations across Kansas
One of the largest oncology practices in Kansas with locations throughout the state, including Wichita, Newton, El Dorado, Winfield, Wellington, Dodge City, Liberal, and Garden City. Their patient support services include financial counseling, patient navigation, support groups, and clinical trial access. Having locations in smaller cities reduces the travel burden for patients in rural areas.
- 15+ locations reducing rural travel burden
- Patient navigators at each location
- Financial assistance and copay programs
- Clinical trial access
- Phone: 316-262-4467
Who: All cancer patients across Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 316-262-4467
Turning Point — The Center for Hope & Healing
📍 Wichita, KS
A Wichita-based nonprofit providing free emotional support and practical help to anyone affected by cancer. Their drop-in center offers support groups, individual counseling, yoga, art therapy, nutrition classes, and wig services. Turning Point is one of the most comprehensive free cancer support organizations in Kansas.
- Free support groups (multiple types)
- Individual counseling
- Yoga, art therapy, and wellness programs
- Wig boutique and head covering assistance
- Caregiver support groups
- Phone: 316-634-0808
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 316-634-0808
Ascension Via Christi Cancer Center
📍 Wichita, KS
A major cancer treatment facility in Wichita offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology alongside support services. Their oncology social workers help patients access financial assistance, community resources, and emotional support. Ascension’s charity care program can help uninsured patients.
- Oncology social work services
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Cancer support groups
- Nutrition and rehabilitation services
- Phone: 316-268-5000
Who: Cancer patients in the Wichita area
Cost: Varies; charity care available
Phone: 316-268-5000
Wesley Medical Center — Cancer Care
📍 Wichita, KS
HCA Midwest Health’s flagship Wichita hospital with comprehensive cancer services. Their cancer program includes patient navigators, social work, support groups, and survivorship care planning. They also participate in community cancer screening events throughout south-central Kansas.
- Patient navigation and care coordination
- Oncology social work
- Cancer support groups
- Community screening events
Who: Cancer patients in the Wichita area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Wichita Transit — Paratransit Services
📍 Wichita, KS
Wichita Transit provides fixed-route bus service and ADA paratransit for individuals with disabilities. Cancer patients who qualify can use the paratransit service for door-to-door rides to treatment appointments. The fixed-route system connects many neighborhoods to hospitals and cancer centers.
- ADA paratransit door-to-door service
- Fixed-route bus connections to hospitals
- Reduced fares for disabled riders
- Phone: 316-265-7221
Who: Wichita-area residents
Cost: Low cost ($1.75 regular; $0.85 reduced)
Phone: 316-265-7221
United Way of the Plains — Wichita
📍 Wichita & south-central Kansas
Connects residents with local resources through their 2-1-1 helpline and online database. Cancer patients can find assistance with utility bills, rent, food, transportation, and other basic needs. They fund local agencies that may provide direct financial help during cancer treatment.
- 2-1-1 resource referral helpline
- Emergency financial assistance referrals
- Utility and rent help connections
- Community resource database
Who: South-central Kansas residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Lord’s Diner — Wichita
📍 Wichita, KS
Serves free hot meals every evening at their Wichita locations. Cancer patients struggling with food costs or too exhausted to cook during treatment can get a nutritious meal. No ID, no questions asked. They also operate a mobile kitchen that reaches underserved areas of Wichita.
- Free hot meals every evening
- Mobile kitchen for underserved areas
- No documentation required
- Multiple Wichita locations
Who: Anyone in need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Wichita Cancer Foundation
📍 Wichita, KS
A local nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding for cancer education and patient assistance in the Wichita area. They support local programs that provide direct patient services and community education about cancer prevention and early detection.
- Patient assistance funding
- Cancer education and awareness
- Community event sponsorship
- Local program support
Who: Wichita-area cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Central Plains Area Agency on Aging
📍 Wichita (serves 8-county region)
Provides services for older adults and family caregivers in the Wichita area and surrounding counties. Their caregiver support program offers respite care, training, and counseling for people caring for a loved one with cancer. They also help with meal delivery, transportation, and in-home services.
- Caregiver respite and support
- Meals on Wheels
- Transportation assistance
- In-home care coordination
- Phone: 316-660-5120
Who: Older adults and their caregivers
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 316-660-5120
NEMT (Non-Emergency Medical Transportation) — KanCare
📍 Wichita & statewide (KanCare members)
All KanCare (Medicaid) members in Kansas are entitled to free non-emergency medical transportation to appointments. This includes rides to cancer treatment, which is critical for rural patients who may be hours from the nearest oncology provider. Contact your KanCare managed care organization to arrange rides.
- Free rides to medical appointments for Medicaid members
- Covers long-distance travel to cancer centers
- Must schedule in advance through MCO
- Available statewide
Who: KanCare (Medicaid) members
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Topeka & Northeast Kansas
The state capital and surrounding communities, including Emporia, Ottawa, and smaller towns in the northeast quadrant.
Stormont Vail Cancer Center
📍 Topeka, KS
Topeka’s primary cancer treatment center and a Midwest Cancer Alliance partner. Provides comprehensive oncology services along with patient navigation, oncology social work, financial counseling, support groups, a cancer resource library, and survivorship programs. Their Cotton O’Neil Cancer Center brings NCI-quality protocols to the capital city.
- Patient navigators and oncology social workers
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Cancer support groups (multiple types)
- Cancer resource library
- Survivorship care planning
- Phone: 785-354-6000
Who: Cancer patients in northeast Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-354-6000
The University of Kansas Health System — St. Francis Campus
📍 Topeka, KS
Now part of the University of Kansas Health System, St. Francis in Topeka provides cancer treatment with the backing of the KU Cancer Center. Patients can access clinical trials, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and support services through this connection. Social work and patient navigation services help with referrals and resource connections.
- Connected to KU Cancer Center network
- Clinical trial access
- Oncology social work
- Patient navigation
Who: Cancer patients in the Topeka area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Topeka Rescue Mission Ministries
📍 Topeka, KS
Provides meals, shelter, and support services for Topeka’s most vulnerable residents. Cancer patients who find themselves in housing crisis during treatment — or who need free meals — can access their services. They also operate a food distribution program and a thrift store where patients can find affordable clothing and household items.
- Free meals daily
- Emergency shelter
- Food distribution program
- Clothing assistance
Who: Anyone in need in Topeka
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Topeka Community Foundation — Emergency Assistance
📍 Topeka & Shawnee County
Manages multiple charitable funds that may assist cancer patients with emergency financial needs. Their grants to local nonprofits support programs addressing healthcare access, housing stability, and basic needs in the Topeka area. Ask your oncology social worker about current funds available for cancer patients.
- Emergency financial assistance through partner agencies
- Grant funding for local health programs
- Community resource connections
Who: Topeka-area residents in financial crisis
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Topeka Metro Transit
📍 Topeka, KS
Topeka’s public bus system provides fixed-route and paratransit service. Cancer patients who cannot drive can use Metro Link paratransit for door-to-door rides to treatment at Stormont Vail or St. Francis. Reduced fares are available for individuals with disabilities and seniors.
- Fixed-route bus to hospital areas
- Metro Link paratransit for eligible riders
- Reduced fares for disabled/senior riders
- Phone: 785-783-7000
Who: Topeka-area residents
Cost: Low cost ($1.50 regular; reduced fares available)
Phone: 785-783-7000
Midland Care — Topeka
📍 Topeka & northeast Kansas
Provides hospice, palliative care, and grief support services throughout northeast Kansas. For cancer patients facing advanced illness, Midland Care offers in-home comfort care, pain management, caregiver respite, bereavement counseling, and a grief support group called Pathways. They serve patients wherever they live — home, nursing facility, or their Midland Care Campus.
- Hospice and palliative care
- Caregiver respite and education
- Pathways grief support program
- Phone: 785-232-2044
Who: Patients with advanced cancer and their families
Cost: Covered by Medicare, Medicaid, most insurance; charity care available
Phone: 785-232-2044
Newman Regional Health — Cancer Services
📍 Emporia, KS
Provides cancer treatment services in Emporia, reducing the travel burden for patients in the central-eastern part of the state. Partnered with the Midwest Cancer Alliance to bring clinical trials and KU treatment protocols locally. Their patient navigators help connect patients with support resources in the Lyon County area.
- Local chemotherapy and oncology services
- Patient navigation
- Midwest Cancer Alliance partnership
- Phone: 620-343-6800
Who: Cancer patients in the Emporia/Lyon County area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 620-343-6800
Lawrence & Douglas County
Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence benefits from proximity to the KU Cancer Center in Kansas City but also has its own local support infrastructure.
LMH Health — Oncology Center
📍 Lawrence, KS
Lawrence Memorial Hospital’s cancer center provides local treatment as a Midwest Cancer Alliance partner, giving Lawrence-area patients access to KU Cancer Center protocols without driving to Kansas City. Support services include oncology social work, patient navigation, financial counseling, and connections to community resources in Douglas County.
- Midwest Cancer Alliance partner — KU protocols locally
- Oncology social work and patient navigation
- Financial counseling
- Phone: 785-505-5000
Who: Cancer patients in the Lawrence area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-505-5000
Douglas County Visiting Nurses Association
📍 Lawrence, KS
Provides home health, hospice, and caregiver support services in Douglas County. Cancer patients receiving treatment can access in-home nursing care, medication management, and help with daily activities. Their hospice program offers comfort care and family support for patients with advanced cancer.
- In-home nursing for cancer patients
- Hospice and palliative care
- Caregiver respite services
- Phone: 785-843-3738
Who: Douglas County residents needing home health or hospice
Cost: Covered by insurance/Medicare; sliding scale available
Phone: 785-843-3738
Just Food — Douglas County
📍 Lawrence, KS
Douglas County’s community food hub providing free food to anyone in need. Cancer patients dealing with food insecurity during treatment can visit their pantry or receive home delivery. They focus on providing fresh produce and culturally appropriate foods alongside shelf-stable items.
- Free food pantry (choice model)
- Home delivery for homebound patients
- Fresh produce and healthy options
- Phone: 785-856-7030
Who: Anyone in Douglas County experiencing food insecurity
Cost: Free
Phone: 785-856-7030
Lawrence Transit System
📍 Lawrence, KS
Lawrence’s public bus system connects neighborhoods to LMH Health and other medical facilities. Their T Lift paratransit service provides door-to-door rides for eligible riders with disabilities, including cancer patients who cannot use the fixed-route buses during treatment.
- Fixed-route bus service to hospitals
- T Lift paratransit for eligible riders
- Reduced fares for disabled/senior riders
- Phone: 785-864-4644
Who: Lawrence-area residents
Cost: Low cost ($1 regular; reduced fares available)
Phone: 785-864-4644
KU Medical-Legal Partnership
📍 Lawrence & Kansas City area
A collaboration between KU School of Law and KU Medical Center providing free legal assistance to patients facing health-harming legal needs. Cancer patients can get help with insurance denials, disability applications, advance directives, medical debt, and employment issues. Law students work under attorney supervision.
- Free legal help for health-related issues
- Insurance appeal assistance
- Advance directives and estate planning
- Disability application help
Who: KU Health System patients with legal needs
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Manhattan & Flint Hills
Home to Kansas State University, Manhattan serves as the healthcare hub for the Flint Hills region, including Junction City, Fort Riley, and surrounding rural communities.
Ascension Via Christi Hospital — Manhattan
📍 Manhattan, KS
Provides cancer care in the Flint Hills region with oncology services, chemotherapy, and support. Their social workers connect patients with financial assistance, transportation, and community resources. As part of the Ascension network, charity care is available for qualifying uninsured patients.
- Oncology services and chemotherapy
- Social work and patient navigation
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Phone: 785-776-3322
Who: Cancer patients in the Flint Hills region
Cost: Varies; charity care available
Phone: 785-776-3322
Konza Prairie Community Health Center
📍 Manhattan & Junction City, KS
A federally qualified health center providing primary care, cancer screening referrals, and patient navigation for uninsured and underinsured residents. Their sliding-scale fee structure makes healthcare accessible for patients who may be delaying cancer follow-up due to cost. They also serve the military community near Fort Riley.
- Sliding-scale primary care and screening referrals
- Patient navigation for underserved populations
- Serves military families near Fort Riley
- Phone: 785-238-4711
Who: Uninsured and underinsured residents
Cost: Sliding scale based on income
Phone: 785-238-4711
Irwin Army Community Hospital — Fort Riley
📍 Fort Riley, KS
Military medical facility serving active duty service members and their families at Fort Riley. Provides cancer screening, referrals to military oncology centers, and support services through the Army’s Exceptional Family Member Program. TRICARE covers treatment at civilian cancer centers when needed.
- Cancer screening and referrals for military
- TRICARE coverage coordination
- Family support through EFMP
- Phone: 785-239-7000
Who: Active duty, retirees, and military families
Cost: Free for eligible beneficiaries
Phone: 785-239-7000
Flint Hills Breadbasket
📍 Manhattan, KS
A community food pantry and resource center serving Riley and surrounding counties. Provides free food, personal care items, and referrals to other assistance programs. Cancer patients managing treatment costs can access nutritious food here without charge, and staff can connect them with additional community resources.
- Free food pantry
- Personal care items
- Resource referrals
- Phone: 785-537-0730
Who: Anyone in need in the Manhattan area
Cost: Free
Phone: 785-537-0730
North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging
📍 Manhattan (serves 18-county region)
Covers a vast 18-county region in north-central Kansas, providing services for older adults including those dealing with cancer. Their caregiver support program offers respite care, training, and counseling. They also coordinate Meals on Wheels, transportation assistance, and in-home services across a huge geographic area.
- Caregiver respite and support
- Meals on Wheels
- Transportation assistance across 18 counties
- Phone: 785-776-9294
Who: Older adults and their caregivers in north-central Kansas
Cost: Free or sliding scale
Phone: 785-776-9294
Salina & Central Kansas
Salina sits at the crossroads of I-70 and I-135, serving as a key healthcare access point for patients in central Kansas who cannot make the trip to Wichita or Kansas City.
Salina Regional Health Center — Tammy Walker Cancer Center
📍 Salina, KS
Central Kansas’s primary cancer treatment facility, offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical oncology, and a full range of support services. A Midwest Cancer Alliance partner, they bring NCI-quality protocols to Salina so patients in central Kansas do not have to drive to the cities. Support services include patient navigation, social work, a cancer resource center, and support groups.
- Comprehensive cancer care in central Kansas
- Patient navigation and oncology social work
- Cancer resource center and lending library
- Support groups and survivorship programs
- Financial counseling and charity care
- Phone: 785-452-7000
Who: Cancer patients in central Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-452-7000
Cancer Center of Kansas — Salina Office
📍 Salina, KS
A satellite office of the Cancer Center of Kansas, providing medical oncology and hematology services locally in Salina. Patients can receive chemotherapy and follow-up care without traveling to Wichita. Patient navigators at this location help connect patients with local and statewide support resources.
- Local chemotherapy and oncology services
- Patient navigation
- Clinical trial access
- Connection to Wichita-based support services
Who: Cancer patients in the Salina area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Salina Emergency Aid / Food Bank
📍 Salina, KS
Provides emergency food assistance, utility help, and prescription assistance to Saline County residents. Cancer patients dealing with financial hardship can access food boxes, help with utility bills, and small grants for prescription medications. One of the key safety-net organizations in central Kansas.
- Emergency food boxes
- Utility bill assistance
- Prescription medication help
- Phone: 785-823-2610
Who: Saline County residents in financial need
Cost: Free
Phone: 785-823-2610
CityGo — Salina Area Transit
📍 Salina, KS
Salina’s public transit system providing demand-response (dial-a-ride) and deviated fixed-route service. Cancer patients needing rides to the Tammy Walker Cancer Center or other medical facilities can schedule a pickup. Service is available throughout the Salina city limits.
- Dial-a-ride to medical appointments
- Deviated fixed-route service
- Affordable fares
- Phone: 785-826-1583
Who: Salina-area residents
Cost: Low cost ($1.50 per ride)
Phone: 785-826-1583
Hays Medical Center — Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Institute
📍 Hays, KS
The primary cancer treatment center for northwest Kansas, part of the University of Kansas Health System. Their cancer institute provides radiation, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services for patients in a region where the next-closest cancer center may be 2-3 hours away. Support includes patient navigation, social work, and support groups.
- Comprehensive cancer care for northwest Kansas
- KU Health System partnership
- Patient navigation and social work
- Support groups
- Phone: 785-623-5000
Who: Cancer patients in northwest Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-623-5000
Hutchinson Regional Medical Center — Cancer Center
📍 Hutchinson, KS
Provides cancer treatment services in Hutchinson, serving Reno County and surrounding communities. Their oncology program includes chemotherapy, and they partner with regional cancer centers for radiation and surgical referrals. Patient navigators and social workers help connect patients with financial and emotional support resources.
- Local oncology services
- Patient navigation
- Social work and financial counseling
- Phone: 620-665-2000
Who: Cancer patients in the Hutchinson area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 620-665-2000
Great Bend Regional Hospital — Cancer Services
📍 Great Bend, KS
Provides cancer screening and treatment coordination for patients in Barton County and surrounding areas. While patients may need to travel to Salina, Wichita, or Hays for specialized treatments, Great Bend Regional helps coordinate care and provides local follow-up. Their social workers help connect patients with regional support resources.
- Cancer screening and care coordination
- Local follow-up care
- Social work support
- Phone: 620-792-8833
Who: Cancer patients in the Great Bend area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 620-792-8833
Dodge City & Southwest Kansas
Southwest Kansas is one of the most medically underserved regions in the state. The meatpacking industry brings a large immigrant workforce, and agricultural exposure is a significant health concern. Cancer patients here face some of the longest drives in the state to reach treatment.
Cancer Center of Kansas — Dodge City
📍 Dodge City, KS
A satellite location of the Cancer Center of Kansas, providing medical oncology services in Dodge City so that southwest Kansas patients do not have to drive 2.5 hours to Wichita for every appointment. Offers chemotherapy, follow-up care, and patient navigation. Financial counselors help patients access assistance programs.
- Local chemotherapy in southwest Kansas
- Patient navigation
- Financial counseling
- Bilingual staff (English/Spanish)
Who: Cancer patients in southwest Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Western Plains Medical Complex
📍 Dodge City, KS
The primary hospital in Dodge City, providing cancer screening, diagnosis, and coordination of care for patients in Ford County and surrounding areas. Their social workers help patients navigate the system when treatment requires travel to Wichita or Kansas City, and they connect patients with local and statewide resources.
- Cancer screening and diagnostic services
- Care coordination for distant treatment
- Social work support
- Bilingual services
- Phone: 620-225-8400
Who: Cancer patients in the Dodge City area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 620-225-8400
Cancer Center of Kansas — Garden City
📍 Garden City, KS
Another southwest Kansas satellite of the Cancer Center of Kansas, providing medical oncology services in Garden City. This location is critical for the large immigrant and meatpacking worker population in Finney County. Bilingual staff serve the area’s diverse community. Patient navigators help connect patients with financial assistance and support.
- Local oncology services in Garden City
- Bilingual patient navigation (English/Spanish)
- Financial counseling and assistance programs
- Clinical trial referrals
Who: Cancer patients in southwest Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
St. Catherine Hospital — Garden City
📍 Garden City, KS
A Centura Health hospital providing cancer diagnostics, treatment coordination, and support services. As the largest hospital between Dodge City and the Colorado border, St. Catherine is a key access point for cancer patients in far-western Kansas. Social workers help coordinate care when patients need to travel for specialized treatment.
- Cancer diagnostics and care coordination
- Social work and patient support
- Bilingual services for Hispanic community
- Phone: 620-272-2561
Who: Cancer patients in the Garden City area
Cost: Varies; charity care available
Phone: 620-272-2561
United Methodist Mexican-American Ministries (UMMAM)
📍 Garden City & southwest Kansas
Provides social services, advocacy, and community support for the large Hispanic population in southwest Kansas. They help families navigate the healthcare system, connect with cancer screening programs, provide interpretation services, and assist with applications for financial assistance programs. A vital resource for immigrant families facing a cancer diagnosis.
- Healthcare navigation for Hispanic families
- Interpretation and translation services
- Assistance with benefit applications
- Community education and outreach
Who: Hispanic and immigrant families in southwest Kansas
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Garden City Cooperative Ministries
📍 Garden City, KS
Provides emergency food, utility assistance, and other basic needs support to families in Finney County. Cancer patients struggling with bills during treatment can get help with food, utilities, and referrals to other assistance programs. Serves the diverse Garden City community with culturally sensitive services.
- Emergency food pantry
- Utility bill assistance
- Referrals to other programs
Who: Finney County residents in need
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Center of Kansas — Liberal
📍 Liberal, KS
A satellite of the Cancer Center of Kansas serving the far southwest corner of the state. Liberal is one of the most isolated cancer treatment locations in Kansas — the nearest alternatives are hours away in Garden City, Dodge City, or even Amarillo, Texas. Having local chemotherapy services here saves patients grueling round trips.
- Local chemotherapy services
- Patient navigation
- Bilingual services
- Reduces travel for far-southwest patients
Who: Cancer patients in the Liberal/Seward County area
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging — Transportation
📍 Dodge City (serves 10-county region)
Coordinates transportation services for older adults across a 10-county region in southwest Kansas. Cancer patients over 60 can access rides to medical appointments, including trips to cancer treatment in Dodge City, Garden City, or Wichita. In a region with no public transit, this service can be the difference between getting treatment and missing appointments.
- Medical appointment transportation for seniors
- Covers 10-county southwest Kansas region
- Meals on Wheels in partnership areas
- Phone: 620-225-0510
Who: Adults 60+ in southwest Kansas
Cost: Free or suggested donation
Phone: 620-225-0510
Rural Western Kansas
Western Kansas — from Colby and Goodland in the northwest to Ulysses and Hugoton in the southwest — is one of the most medically isolated regions in the country. No oncologists practice full-time in many of these counties. These resources help bridge the gap.
Citizens Medical Center — Colby
📍 Colby, KS
A critical-access hospital in northwest Kansas providing cancer screening, diagnostic services, and care coordination. When patients need treatment, social workers help arrange referrals to Hays Medical Center or the KU Cancer Center and assist with the logistics of traveling for care. Telemedicine consultations with KU oncologists are available.
- Cancer screening and diagnostics
- Telemedicine oncology consultations
- Social work and care coordination
- Phone: 785-462-7511
Who: Cancer patients in northwest Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-462-7511
Goodland Regional Medical Center
📍 Goodland, KS
A critical-access hospital near the Colorado border providing cancer screening and initial diagnostic services. Goodland is closer to Denver than to any Kansas cancer center, and some patients are referred to Colorado for treatment. Social workers help coordinate care and connect patients with resources in both states.
- Cancer screening and diagnostics
- Care coordination across state lines
- Social work support
- Phone: 785-890-3625
Who: Cancer patients in far-northwest Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 785-890-3625
Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging
📍 Norton, KS (serves 18-county region)
Covers 18 counties across the vast northwest Kansas region. Their transportation program is a lifeline for older cancer patients in counties with no oncology services and no public transit. They coordinate volunteer drivers and agency vehicles to get patients to medical appointments, sometimes driving hundreds of miles round trip.
- Long-distance medical transportation for seniors
- Covers 18 rural counties
- Meals on Wheels
- In-home services and caregiver support
- Phone: 785-628-8204
Who: Adults 60+ in northwest Kansas
Cost: Free or suggested donation
Phone: 785-628-8204
KU Cancer Center Telemedicine — Rural Outreach
📍 Available at partner hospitals across rural Kansas
The University of Kansas Cancer Center offers telemedicine consultations for patients in rural Kansas who cannot easily travel to Kansas City. Through the Midwest Cancer Alliance network, patients can see KU oncology specialists via video from their local hospital or clinic. This is especially important for second opinions, treatment planning, and follow-up care in western Kansas.
- Video consultations with KU oncologists
- Second opinion services
- Treatment planning from local hospitals
- Available at Midwest Cancer Alliance partner sites
Who: Rural Kansas cancer patients
Cost: Varies; insurance accepted
Phone: 2-1-1
Kansas Farm Bureau — Health Plans
📍 Rural Kansas (statewide)
Many Kansas farmers and ranchers get their health insurance through the Kansas Farm Bureau. If you are a Farm Bureau member diagnosed with cancer, contact them to understand your coverage, including whether your plan covers treatment at major cancer centers. They also connect members with mental health resources and community support.
- Health insurance for farmers and ranchers
- Coverage guidance for cancer treatment
- Mental health resource connections
- Phone: 785-587-6000
Who: Farm Bureau members
Cost: Based on membership and plan
Phone: 785-587-6000
K-State Research & Extension — Rural Health
📍 Extension offices in every Kansas county
Kansas State University’s extension network has agents in every county — even the most rural. While not a cancer-specific organization, extension agents often serve as connectors in small communities, helping families find health resources, stress management programs, and financial planning assistance. Their rural health programs address the unique challenges of farming families dealing with illness.
- Local resource connections in every county
- Stress management and wellness programs
- Financial planning resources for farm families
- Community health education
Who: Rural Kansas families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Farm Aid — Farmer Assistance
📍 Nationwide (serves Kansas farmers)
Farm Aid’s hotline helps farming families navigate crises, including a cancer diagnosis. Their staff connects Kansas farmers with financial assistance, health insurance navigation, stress counseling, and local resources. When a farmer gets cancer, the whole operation can be at risk — Farm Aid helps address both the personal and business sides of the crisis.
- Crisis hotline for farming families: 800-FARM-AID
- Health insurance and benefits navigation
- Financial assistance referrals
- Stress counseling connections
Who: Farmers and farming families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Kansas AgrAbility Project
📍 Statewide (based at K-State)
A USDA-funded program helping farmers and ranchers with disabilities — including those undergoing cancer treatment — continue working in agriculture. They provide assistive technology assessments, worksite modifications, and connections to health and rehabilitation services. For Kansas farmers whose cancer treatment affects their ability to work the land, AgrAbility can help them adapt.
- Assistive technology for farmers with disabilities
- Worksite assessments and modifications
- Rehabilitation service connections
- Phone: 800-526-3648
Who: Kansas farmers and ranchers with disabilities
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-526-3648
Kansas Rural Health Options Project
📍 Statewide (rural focus)
Works to improve healthcare access in rural Kansas communities. They support critical-access hospitals, rural health clinics, and community health workers who help patients navigate the system. For cancer patients in counties with no oncology services, they can help identify the closest treatment options and available support.
- Rural healthcare access advocacy
- Community health worker programs
- Resource mapping for rural patients
- Support for critical-access hospitals
Who: Rural Kansas residents
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Additional Kansas Resources
Additional organizations serving cancer patients across Kansas — including national programs that serve the state.
Good Days (formerly CDF)
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Provides financial assistance for copays, premiums, diagnostics, and travel for patients with chronic diseases, including many cancer types. Kansas patients can apply online or by phone when disease-specific funds are open. Their travel assistance can help rural patients cover gas and lodging costs when traveling to cancer centers.
- Copay and premium assistance
- Diagnostic test assistance
- Travel and lodging help
- Phone: 972-608-7141
Who: Insured patients with qualifying diagnoses
Cost: Free
Phone: 972-608-7141
Stupid Cancer
📍 Statewide (online)
The largest network for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients. Provides online support groups, podcasts, a social networking platform, and resource navigation. Kansas young adults (ages 15-39) diagnosed with cancer often feel isolated — Stupid Cancer connects them with peers who understand their unique challenges around careers, fertility, relationships, and identity.
- Online community for young adults with cancer
- Virtual support groups
- Podcasts and educational content
- Resource navigation
Who: Adolescents and young adults (15-39) with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Imerman Angels
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Matches cancer patients and caregivers with survivor mentors who had the same type of cancer. Especially valuable for Kansas patients in isolated rural areas who may not have local support groups. Being paired with someone who has been through the same diagnosis provides emotional support that no pamphlet can replicate.
- One-on-one cancer mentor matching
- Matched by cancer type, age, and gender
- Caregiver mentoring also available
- All mentors are cancer survivors
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
NeedyMeds
📍 Statewide (online)
A comprehensive online database of patient assistance programs for medications, healthcare costs, and other needs. Kansas patients can search by drug name, diagnosis, or zip code to find programs they qualify for. Especially helpful for finding manufacturer copay cards and state-specific assistance programs.
- Searchable database of assistance programs
- Drug discount card
- Diagnosis-specific resources
- State-specific program listings
Who: Anyone needing help with healthcare costs
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
LLS — Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (Plains/Sunflower Chapter)
📍 Kansas & western Missouri
Provides free information, support, and financial assistance to blood cancer patients and their families. Their patient navigators help Kansas patients access clinical trials, understand treatment options, and connect with local support. Financial assistance includes copay and travel help for blood cancer patients.
- Patient navigation for blood cancers
- Financial assistance (copays, travel)
- Support groups and peer connections
- Phone: 913-262-1515
Who: Blood cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 913-262-1515
Susan G. Komen — Kansas & Western Missouri
📍 Kansas (statewide)
Funds breast cancer screening, treatment, and support programs in Kansas. Their breast care helpline provides free, confidential support from trained specialists. Komen grants support local organizations that provide mammograms, patient navigation, and treatment assistance for underserved Kansas women.
- Breast care helpline: 877-465-6636
- Funding for local screening programs
- Patient navigation support
- Treatment assistance grants
Who: Breast cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-465-6636
RxAssist
📍 Statewide (online)
A comprehensive database of pharmaceutical manufacturer patient assistance programs. Kansas cancer patients who cannot afford their medications can search for programs that provide free or discounted drugs directly from the manufacturer. Most major cancer drug manufacturers participate.
- Database of manufacturer assistance programs
- Free and discounted cancer medications
- Application guidance
Who: Patients who cannot afford medications
Cost: Free to search
Phone: 2-1-1
Ronald McDonald House — Kansas City
📍 Kansas City (serves families statewide)
Provides free lodging and meals for families of children receiving treatment at Kansas City-area hospitals, including Children’s Mercy and the KU Cancer Center. Kansas families traveling from across the state for pediatric cancer treatment can stay at the House at no cost, keeping families together during treatment.
- Free lodging near children’s hospitals
- Family meals and snacks
- Playrooms and family activities
- Phone: 816-363-2555
Who: Families of hospitalized children
Cost: Free
Phone: 816-363-2555
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides travel grants to help families of children with cancer get to treatment. Their Travel for Care program covers flights, gas, hotel, and meals for families traveling to specialized pediatric cancer centers. Critical for rural Kansas families who need to reach Kansas City for treatment at Children’s Mercy.
- Travel grants for pediatric cancer families
- Covers transport, lodging, and meals
- Online application process
- Quick turnaround on approvals
Who: Families of children with cancer
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)
📍 Statewide (phone/virtual)
A national program providing free information and resources on cancer-related legal issues. Their telephone assistance line helps Kansas cancer patients understand their rights regarding employment, insurance, government benefits, and estate planning.
- Free legal information hotline: 866-843-2572
- Employment rights guidance
- Insurance dispute information
- Educational webinars
Who: Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 866-843-2572
Angel Flight Central
📍 Statewide (serves KS, MO, and central US)
Coordinates free flights for cancer patients who need to travel long distances for treatment but cannot afford commercial airfare. Volunteer pilots fly patients from small airports across Kansas to treatment centers in Kansas City, Wichita, or out of state. For patients in western Kansas, this service can turn a 10-hour drive into a 2-hour flight.
- Free flights to treatment centers
- Volunteer pilots across Kansas
- Serves patients who cannot afford or tolerate long drives
- Phone: 816-421-2300
Who: Cancer patients needing long-distance travel for treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 816-421-2300
Livestrong Foundation
📍 Statewide (phone/online)
Provides free cancer navigation services, connecting patients with financial assistance, fertility preservation programs, insurance guidance, and emotional support. Their navigators can help Kansas patients sort through the complex web of available resources and identify the ones most relevant to their situation.
- Free cancer navigation by phone
- Fertility preservation program referrals
- Insurance and financial guidance
- Phone: 855-220-7777
Who: All cancer patients
Cost: Free
Phone: 855-220-7777
Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services — Family Caregiver Support
📍 Statewide
Administers the National Family Caregiver Support Program in Kansas, providing services through the network of Area Agencies on Aging. Family members caring for a loved one with cancer can access respite care, caregiver training, counseling, and limited supplemental services. Contact your local AAA to learn what is available in your area.
- Caregiver respite and support
- Training and education for caregivers
- Counseling and support groups
- Phone: 800-432-3535
Who: Family caregivers of older adults or adults with disabilities
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-432-3535
Kansas Insurance Department — Consumer Assistance
📍 Statewide
If your health insurance denies coverage for cancer treatment, the Kansas Insurance Department can help. Their consumer assistance division investigates complaints, mediates disputes between patients and insurance companies, and helps patients understand their rights under Kansas law. They also help people find health insurance options.
- Insurance complaint investigation
- Help with coverage denials
- Health insurance marketplace guidance
- Phone: 800-432-2484
Who: Kansas residents with insurance issues
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-432-2484
NAMI Kansas
📍 Statewide
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Kansas chapter provides free mental health support and resources. A cancer diagnosis often triggers anxiety, depression, and PTSD. NAMI Kansas offers support groups, a helpline, educational programs, and connections to mental health services that complement cancer treatment.
- Free support groups for mental health
- NAMI Helpline: 800-950-6264
- Educational programs
- Peer support and mentoring
Who: Anyone dealing with mental health challenges
Cost: Free
Phone: 800-950-6264
Triage Cancer — Financial & Legal Resources
📍 Statewide (online)
Provides education on financial and legal issues affecting cancer patients. Their website has Kansas-specific guides on health insurance, disability benefits, employment rights, and estate planning. Free webinars and downloadable checklists help patients and caregivers navigate the non-medical side of cancer.
- State-specific legal and financial guides
- Free webinars on cancer-related topics
- Downloadable checklists and tools
- Disability benefits navigation
Who: Cancer patients and caregivers
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Promise — Kansas Affiliates
📍 Wichita, Topeka, Lawrence, & Manhattan
Helps families experiencing homelessness and housing instability — which can happen during cancer treatment when medical bills pile up and income drops. Kansas affiliates provide temporary housing, meals, case management, and help getting back on their feet. Multiple Kansas cities have Family Promise chapters.
- Temporary housing for families in crisis
- Case management and support
- Meals and basic necessities
- Help with permanent housing
Who: Families experiencing housing instability
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Provides information, support, and patient navigation for colorectal cancer patients. Their Buddy Program pairs newly diagnosed patients with survivors for one-on-one support. Kansas has higher-than-average colorectal cancer rates, particularly in rural areas where screening access is limited, making this organization especially relevant.
- Patient navigation and support
- Buddy Program (peer mentoring)
- Financial assistance information
- Phone: 877-422-2030
Who: Colorectal cancer patients and survivors
Cost: Free
Phone: 877-422-2030
Lung Cancer Foundation of America
📍 Statewide (online/phone)
Provides resources and support for lung cancer patients, who often face stigma around their diagnosis. Kansas has elevated lung cancer rates due to smoking and agricultural dust exposure. The foundation offers educational resources, clinical trial matching, survivor connections, and an online community.
- Lung cancer patient resources
- Clinical trial matching
- Survivor connections
- Educational materials
Who: Lung cancer patients and families
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Family Reach
📍 Statewide (online application)
Provides direct financial assistance to cancer patients and families to cover basic needs like rent, utilities, car payments, and groceries. Their grants are designed to keep families financially stable during treatment so they can focus on healing instead of bills. Kansas patients can apply online.
- Direct financial grants for basic needs
- Rent and mortgage assistance
- Utility and car payment help
- Financial planning tools
Who: Cancer patients in active treatment
Cost: Free
Phone: 2-1-1
Pittsburg Community Health Center
📍 Pittsburg, KS (southeast Kansas)
A federally qualified health center in southeast Kansas providing cancer screening referrals, preventive care, and patient navigation for uninsured and underinsured residents. Southeast Kansas is one of the state’s most underserved areas, and this center serves as a gateway to cancer services for Crawford County and surrounding communities.
- Cancer screening referrals
- Patient navigation
- Sliding-scale primary care
- Phone: 620-231-9873
Who: Uninsured and underinsured residents in southeast Kansas
Cost: Sliding scale
Phone: 620-231-9873
Mercy Hospital — Independence & Southeast Kansas
📍 Independence, KS
Provides cancer screening and care coordination in Montgomery County. As part of the Mercy system, patients have access to financial assistance programs and can be referred to larger Mercy cancer centers in Joplin, MO or Springfield, MO when needed. Social workers help coordinate transportation and lodging for patients traveling for treatment.
- Cancer screening and referrals
- Mercy financial assistance programs
- Care coordination for distant treatment
- Social work support
Who: Cancer patients in southeast Kansas
Cost: Varies; financial assistance available
Phone: 2-1-1
Neighboring State Resources
Kansas borders four states. Depending on where you live, resources in a neighboring state may be closer or better suited to your needs.
Missouri Cancer Resources
📍 Kansas City metro (MO side)
The Kansas City metro is split across the state line. Many cancer resources on the Missouri side — including the Cancer Support Community of Greater KC, numerous support groups, and financial assistance programs — are available to Kansas patients. If you live in the KC metro, explore resources in both states.
Nebraska Cancer Resources
📍 Northern Kansas border
Patients in north-central and northwest Kansas may find that cancer centers in Nebraska — particularly the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center (NCI-designated) in Omaha or regional centers in Kearney and North Platte — are closer than Kansas City or Wichita. Nebraska also has its own financial assistance and support programs.
Colorado Cancer Resources
📍 Western Kansas border
Patients in far-western Kansas (Goodland, Colby, Sharon Springs) may be closer to Denver than to any Kansas cancer center. The University of Colorado Cancer Center (NCI-designated) in Aurora and other Colorado cancer programs may be more accessible. Colorado also has extensive patient assistance and transportation programs.
Oklahoma Cancer Resources
📍 Southern Kansas border
Patients in south-central and southeast Kansas — particularly near Arkansas City, Coffeyville, or Parsons — may find that cancer resources in Oklahoma are accessible. The Stephenson Cancer Center (NCI-designated) in Oklahoma City and cancer programs in Tulsa and Ponca City may serve Kansas border residents. Oklahoma also has tribal health resources available to eligible patients.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you are overwhelmed and do not know which resource to call first, try one of these:
- American Cancer Society Helpline: 1-800-227-2345 (24/7, speaks multiple languages)
- Kansas 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone for local resource connections
- CancerCare: 800-813-4673 (free counseling with oncology social workers)
- Your hospital’s social worker: Ask at your next appointment — they know local resources better than anyone
- Turning Point (Wichita): 316-634-0808 (free support for anyone affected by cancer)
You do not have to figure this out alone. Every organization on this list exists because someone wanted to help people like you.