•  Shop the Internet for supplies. Though there are drawbacks, including some chance of fraud and obvious time-delays, vendors may have less overhead and should be able to provide the same level of quality at a lower price.

•  Free supplies and medicines are sometimes parts of a clinical trial you can join.

•  If it's a specialized medical item, ask your pharmacist for help.

•  Be aware that your doc may have little or no handle on the costs of things being ordered for you. Docs are trained to look past economics to the thing that will be the absolute best for the recovering patient. So forgive the medical team that sends you out to buy a new Cadillac, when all you needed was a used pickup. Then look for third party suppliers with qualified generics and alternatives.

•  Doctors' offices often have free samples.

•  If the product or service you need isn't covered by your medical insurance, and you have the luxury of a bit of money on hand, try negotiating a cash deal. The discount may be very deep in return for folding green at the door.

•  Homecare services are mostly negotiable.

•  Homecare workers are often expert at helping to cut costs.

•  Ask the American Cancer Society - or the nonprofit cancer organization with the name of your brand of the disease in its title (lung, breast, prostate, etc.) - for help shopping. Also, ask for a subsidy or discount supplier.

•  If you're in need of help with drug purchases, the major manufacturers have discount programs. Find out which one makes the drugs you need and go to its internet site for help.

•  Most, if not all, hospitals have private funds that are available to patients in need. The help you receive can be in any of several forms. Maybe a cost is reduced or eliminated. Maybe you are admitted to a clinical trial, qualifying you for free stuff. This help is seldom in the form of a check.

•  There are a lot of ways to save money on travel, food and lodging. If you must leave home for treatment, call the medical center you will be visiting. Ask to speak to the concierge.

•  Negotiate physical therapy, appliances such as hearing aids, orthotics and prosthetics. Get at least two independent bids. You may not save money, though it's likely. The bonus may be in a better product, longer warranty, or more therapy sessions.