Transportation & Lodging for Care (TLC) Service

At the UF Health Cancer Center, we advocate for equal access to top-tier cancer care for every patient. However, we know that out of pocket costs to travel to care can create financial and logistical hardships that make it harder to get the treatment that is needed. It is essential that we systematically address these barriers to ensure equitable access and outcomes in cancer care and research participation.

A bald woman wearing a pink shirt looks up at the sky and smiles in an outdoor setting.

That’s why we are proud to announce our innovative Transportation & Lodging for Care (TLC) service, designed not just to assist, but to rethink how we support patients along their cancer journey.

TLC coordinators can help arrange lodging at local hotels, provide meals during their stay, offer assistance with gas costs and even organize rides if needed. 

The TLC service is not just about providing financial support; it’s about empowerment. Our approach aims to put the control in the hands of our patients, ensuring that support is tailored to meet the needs of each person we are privileged to serve. We aim to alleviate some of the burden for those touched by cancer because at the UF Health Cancer Center, we believe that every patient deserves nothing less than our very best. 

Current UF Health Cancer Center patients experiencing significant financial hardship that limits their ability to access treatment may qualify for assistance. For further information, please call 352-325-3702 or email TLCServices@cancer.ufl.edu.

Available Support & Services

TLC uses a patient navigation approach to ensure that services offered are appropriate, accessible and impactful. Pending resource availability, these resources are made available to all qualified patients.

Transportation

Gas cards for those who have a mode of transportation or free scheduled rides.

Food

Meal choices and delivery will be provided ahead of scheduled appointments requiring overnight stay.

Lodging

Overnight accommodation for those who require an overnight stay for their treatment visits.

Patient Eligibility

  • Currently undergoing or is scheduled to undergo cancer treatment, including clinical trials at the UF Health Cancer Center. Excludes treatments that require services for more than two consecutive days.
  • Reports barriers to transportation, financial constraints and/or food insecurity questions during most recent encounter.
  • Reported barriers are not overcome by resources otherwise available through existing clinical or social services.

How to refer

  • UF Health Cancer Center provider or staff identifies social barriers or relevant challenges to care adherence
  • Provide patient flyer for services
  • Referring clinical team completes intake form (REDCap) outlining service needs
    • Patient information
    • Anticipated treatment schedule
    • Referring provider contact information
  • Upon qualification, coordinator schedules all services and provides notice of services to patient, provider and referring staff
  • Coordinator sends reminder text and service details to patient before visit(s)

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