How to Triage Health

In this episode

Health insurance denials can raise immediate concerns about how to access care and manage costs. What does a denial actually mean? Do you have options? And what steps can you take next?

In this episode, Michaela and Monica break down what happens when a health insurance claim is denied and explain why an appeal can be an important next step. They discuss the difference between a denial and a final decision, outline the appeals process, and highlight the legal right to challenge coverage decisions.

The conversation explores why many people don’t appeal, common barriers to taking action, and how understanding your rights can help you make informed decisions. They also share practical guidance on how to review a denial letter, what information to gather, and how to move forward with an appeal.

If you have received a denial, or want to be prepared in case you do, this episode offers a clear and grounded overview of the appeals process.

Key Takeaways

• A denial is not the final decision—you may have the right to appeal.
• Health insurance appeals are a legal right for many types of plans.
• Most denied claims are never appealed, even though many could be overturned.
• Your denial letter includes important details about why coverage was denied and how to appeal.
• Understanding the process can help you access needed care and avoid unnecessary costs.

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Health Insurance Appeals Resources: TriageCancer.org/Appeals and TriageHealth.org/Appeals
• Triage Health Appeals Navigator, Powered by Counterforce Health: TriageCancer.org/Cancer-Appeals
• Health Insurance Appeals Tracking Form: TriageHealth.org/AppealTrackingForm
• Resources by Location: TriageHealth.org/StateResources
• Legal & Financial Navigation Program: TriageCancer.org/GetHelp or TriageHealth.org/GetHelp
• Blog: Proposed CMS 2027 Marketplace Insurance Rule Could Weaken Patient Protections
• Advocacy Resources: TriageCancer.org/Advocacy
• Triage Cancer Blog: TriageCancer.org/Blog
• Triage Health Blog: TriageHealth.org/Blog
• Charts of State Laws: TriageCancer.org/State-Laws

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

Newsletter:

• Triage Health: TriageHealth.org/Newsletter 

• Triage Cancer: TriageCancer.org/Newsletters 

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

Hosts:            

Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer

Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

In this episode

A serious or chronic medical diagnosis often raises immediate concerns about work and income. What happens if you needtime away from your job? Will you still get paid? Is your job protected?

In this episode, Michaela and Monica break down the workplace protections and benefits that may be available whensomeone needs time off because of their health. They explain the difference between employer-provided benefits, like paid sick leave or short-term disability insurance, and legal protections that may safeguard your job.

The conversation explores how federal and state laws can apply, how different protections may overlap, and why simplyhaving paid leave does not necessarily guarantee job protection. They also discuss practical steps for thinking through your situation, including what information to gather, what questions to ask, and how to approach conversationswith your employer.

If you are navigating work after a diagnosis, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers clarity and a grounded overview of the rights and protections that may apply.

Key Takeaways

• Employer benefits and legal protections are not the same thing.
• Paid sick leave does not always equal job protection.
• Federal and state laws may provide job-protected leave, depending on your situation.
• Multiple protections can apply at the same time.
• Understanding the bigger picture can help you make informed decisions about time off.

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Employment Resources: TriageHealth.org/Employment
• Charts of State Laws: TriageCancer.org/State-Laws
• Resources by Location: TriageHealth.org/StateResources
• Disability Insurance: TriageHealth.org/Disability-Insurance
• National Health Care Rights Day: TriageHealth.org/Health-Care-Rights-Day
• Upcoming & On-Demand Webinars:TriageHealth.org/Webinars
• Triage Health Blog: TriageHealth.org/Blog
• Triage Cancer Blog: TriageCancer.org/Blog
• Past Webinars: TriageHealth.org/Past-Webinars
• Past Webinars: TriageCancer.org/Past-Webinars

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠         ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠| ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠     @triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠
• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠     ⁠TriageCancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠
• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠       TriageCancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠
• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠        @triagecancer.org⁠⁠|⁠ @triagehealth.org⁠

Newsletter:

• Triage Health: TriageHealth.org/Newsletter
• Triage Cancer: TriageCancer.org/Newsletters

AskTriageEmail — Send questions to [email protected]for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

In this episode

Health care headlines have felt nonstop lately. From congressional proposals and executive actions to court decisions and state-level policy shifts, it can feel overwhelming to keep up.

In this Policy Watch episode, Michaela and Monica step back from the noise to talk about what’s actually happening, what themes are shaping health policy right now, and how to think about these changes in a practical, grounded way. They explore why the volume of health care policy updates feels so intense, and explain the important difference between broad national headlines and what truly impacts an individual or family.

The conversation highlights several major themes shaping the current landscape, including potential changes to health insurance access and eligibility, shifts in health insurance costs, and the growing role of states in making health care policy decisions. They also walk through how to determine whether a specific policy change applies to you, what questions to ask, and where to focus your attention so you’re informed without becoming overwhelmed.

If you’ve been feeling policy “whiplash,” this episode offers clarity, context, and practical next steps to help you move forward with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Headlines are broad. Impact is personal.
• Health care policy changes are happening at federal and state levels and timing matters
• Changes related to cost and eligibility for health insurance are major themes to watch.
• You don’t have to track everything. You just need to understand what applies to your situation.
• Trusted, nonpartisan information is essential when navigating uncertainty.
  

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Triage Cancer Blog: TriageCancer.org/Blog
• Triage Cancer Podcast: TriageCancer.org/podcast
• Upcoming & On-Demand Webinars: TriageHealth.org/Webinars
• Triage Health Blog: TriageHealth.org/Blog
• Triage Health Podcast: TriageHealth.org/Podcast
• Webinar: Legislative & Policy Watch 2026: Health-Related Updates: TriageCancer.org/webinar -legislative-policy-watch
• Past Webinars: TriageCancer.org/Past-Webinars
• Past Webinars: TriageHealth.org/Past-Webinars
• NeedyMeds: NeedyMeds.org 
• GoodRx: GoodRX.com
  

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

Newsletter:

• Triage Health: TriageHealth.org/Newsletter 

• Triage Cancer: TriageCancer.org/Newsletters 

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

Hosts:

Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer

Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

Guest:

Erin Galyean, Founder, Badass Advocate

In this Episode

In this episode of How to Triage Health, Michaela Tobin and Monica Bryant are joined by Badass Advocate Founder Erin Galyean for a conversation about self-advocacy.

Together, they explore what self-advocacy really means for patients, caregivers, and advocates, why it matters, and how individuals can build the skills and confidence to speak up in complex medical, insurance, and employment situations.

The discussion covers:

• How to define self-advocacy in practical, real-world terms
• Common barriers that prevent people from advocating for themselves
• The role of preparation, documentation, and asking the right questions
• How advocates and providers can support patients in becoming stronger self-advocates
• Real-life examples of self-advocacy challenges and strategies

Key Takeaways

• Self-advocacy is a skill that can be learned and strengthened over time.

• Being prepared with information and questions can change the outcome of medical and insurance conversations.

• Patients have the right to ask questions, seek second opinions, and understand their options.

• Effective self-advocacy often involves building a support team, not going it alone.

• Health care professionals and advocates play a critical role in empowering patients to speak up.

Featured Resources Mentioned

Caregiver Resources: TriageHealth.org/Caregiver-Resources 

Resources by Location: TriageHealth.org/StateResources

Triage Cancer’s Legal & Financial Navigation Program: TriageCancer.org/GetHelp or TriageHealth.org/GetHelp 

Make the Most of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: TriageCancer.org/Blog 

Badass Advocate: BadassAdvocate.com 

Caring Bridge: CaringBridge.org 

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

Newsletter:

• Triage Health: TriageHealth.org/Newsletter 

• Triage Cancer: TriageCancer.org/newsletters 

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

Connect with our Guest Erin Galyean:

Website:⁠ BadassAdvocate.com

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@badassadvocate

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Facebook.com/badassadvocate

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Linkedin.com/company/badass-advocate
  

Hosts:

Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer

Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

In this episode

As How to Triage Health returns for Season 2, the conversation centers on reconciliation - the process of looking back at what was planned, what actually happened, and what the data reveals about the real needs people are facing. Our hosts Michaela and Monica explore how reconciliation helps Triage Cancer assess impact, identify gaps, and make informed decisions about what comes next.

Drawing on program data, geographic trends, and ongoing feedback from the community, the discussion highlights how reviewing outcomes goes far beyond counting numbers. By examining repeated questions, barriers people encounter, and how individuals find and use resources, reconciliation helps ensure that education, outreach, and services remain effective and responsive. The episode also explains how this process shapes future programming, partnerships, and resource development, keeping the organization focused on where it can make the greatest impact.

Our hosts also discussed a real navigation case involving an individual who is uninsured and needed help accessing care, highlighting how the January 15 open enrollment deadline creates a critical window to explore Marketplace options and secure coverage. The episode also addresses a listener's question about rising premiums and the pros and cons of health care sharing ministries, explaining how these programs differ from traditional health insurance and the risks to consider before choosing them.

Key Takeaways

What reconciliation really means: Reconciliation is an honest comparison of plans versus outcomes, grounded in learning from real experiences and real needs.

Data goes beyond numbers: Trends, feedback, and repeated questions provide critical insight into where people are getting stuck and what support they need most.

Using data to guide decisions: Information about program reach, geography, and engagement helps determine where to expand, refine, or rethink efforts.

Identifying gaps and opportunities: When the same challenges surface again and again, it signals the need for new or improved resources.

Sharing what we learn: Insights from reconciliation are shared through newsletters, annual reports, and with funders who help make free programs and resources possible.

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Health Insurance Resources:  TriageHealth.org/Health-Insurance 

• Video: How to Pick a Health Insurance Plan: TriageHealth.org/Video-PickingaPlan 

• Health Insurance Comparison Calculator: TriageHealth.org/Worksheet-HealthInsurance 

• Quick Guide to Health Insurance Basics: TriageHealth.org/Quick-Guides/HealthInsuranceBasics 

• Healthcare.gov or 1-800-318-2596

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

Newsletter:

• Triage Health: TriageHealth.org/Newsletter 

• Triage Cancer: TriageCancer.org/newsletters 

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

In this episode:

In this special episode, you’ll hear directly from members of our staff as they introduce themselves, reflect on meaningful highlights from the past year, and share what they’re most excited about as we look ahead to 2026. These personal reflections offer a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make our work possible and the moments that have shaped our journey over the last year.

From impactful projects and meaningful connections to lessons learned along the way, each team member shares what stood out most to them and why it mattered. You’ll also hear what’s energizing and inspiring them as we plan for the year ahead — including hopes for growth, new opportunities, and continued impact.

Together, these voices capture the passion, dedication, and shared purpose that drive our work every day. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to our community, this episode offers a chance to get to know our team a little better and to celebrate where we’ve been — and where we’re going next.

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

Hosts:

Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer

Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

Guest:

Julie Larson, LCSW, Speaker-Educator, Psychotherapist

In this encore episode:

Uncertainty is something we all face, but for individuals living with serious health conditions—and their caregivers—it can feel overwhelming. In this listener favorite, hosts Michaela Tobin and Monica Bryant, Esq. sit with guest Julie Larson, LCSW, to explore practical ways to find calm, stay grounded, and build resilience in the midst of change.

Julie brings years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker supporting individuals with serious illnesses. Together, the conversation unpacks why uncertainty feels so heavy, what it does to our mental and emotional wellbeing, and how to create practices that foster stability even when the world feels out of control.

Why we’re re-sharing this episode:

The insights here are timeless—and especially resonant as so many continue navigating uncertainty in their health, work, and daily lives. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting the conversation, you’ll walk away with renewed tools for staying centered.

Key Themes

• Finding Calm in Uncertainty

• Julie Larson emphasized that the goal is not to “find answers” but to find calm.

• Calm allows for clearer thinking, stronger connections, and better collaboration.

• Coping Strategies

• Recognize stress responses (fight, flight, freeze).

• Practice present moment awareness and self-check-ins (“How am I doing?”).

• Use grounding “entrance ramps”:

• Thoughts: Challenge unhelpful narratives, ask if you’re a reliable narrator.

• Emotions: Identify what your feelings are telling you (e.g., need for comfort or connection).

• Body: Move, breathe, hydrate, or step away when stress shows physically.

• Professional Well-Being

• Compassion fatigue and burnout are common, especially when staff deliver hard news.

• Strategies include:

• Setting boundaries between your emotions and the caller’s emotions.

• Debriefing and restoring balance after difficult calls.

• Giving yourself credit for trying, showing up, and staying steady for others.

• Workplace & Team Tools

• Triage Cancer’s legal team uses “throw spaghetti at the wall” brainstorming to problem-solve when no clear answer exists—this can also be applied to coping with uncertainty.

• Weekly positive navigation stories during staff meetings help “install the good” and remind staff of the impact they’re making.

• Balancing Information Intake

• Staying informed is important, but too much news can increase anxiety.

• Teams should watch for the tipping point between helpful venting and ruminating.

• Advocacy as Coping

• Advocacy can be empowering when it helps people feel they’re contributing to change.

• But if it leads to constant agitation, balance and self-awareness are key.

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Quick Guide to Accessing Mental Health Care

• Quick Guide to Stress Management

• Stress: What is it and what to do about it

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected].

Connect with Julie Larson: 

Website: JulieLarsonlcsw.com/

Social:

• Instagram: @jlarsonlcsw

• LinkedIn: Julie Larson, LCSW

Host:

Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer

Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

Guest:

Robyn Sechler, VP of Partnerships at GoodTrust

Key Takeaways

Estate planning can feel uncomfortable—but it’s one of the most loving things you can do for yourself and your family. In this episode, Michaela and Monica sit down with Robin Sechler of GoodTrust, an online platform that helps people easily create, store, and securely share essential planning documents like wills, trusts, and health care directives.

Together, they discuss how technology is simplifying estate planning, empowering caregivers, and helping families protect their legacies with clarity and compassion.

Key Topics

• Why estate planning is an act of love, not just a financial task

• Core documents every adult should have:

• Will

• Power of Attorney for Financial Affairs

• Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will + Medical Power of Attorney)

• How estate planning benefits caregivers and reduces uncertainty

• How to start sensitive conversations about planning with loved ones

• Pet Directives—planning for the care of furry family members

• Using technology to simplify estate planning with GoodTrust’s Digital Vault

• Create and store wills, trusts, and directives online

• Securely share documents with “trusted contacts”

• Control who can view what, and when

Partnership Highlight

Through a special partnership between Triage Health and GoodTrust. When listeners purchase a one-year subscription using our link, you save $25 and Triage Cancer receives $25 to support free resources. Use code: SAVE25GIVE25.

Resources Mentioned

• Triage Health Estate Planning Resources

• Triage Health Estate Planning Toolkit

• Triage Health Caregiver Resources

• GoodTrust – Online estate planning and digital vault platform 

• Dollar For – Assistance with medical debt and charity care: 

• Medicare Plan Finder – Tool to compare Medicare Part D plans: medicare.gov/plan-compare

• Triage Health Video: How to Use Medicare Plan Finder

• Triage Health Checklist: Medicare Prescription Drug Exception Requests

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠⁠. Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes.

In this episode

A government shutdown, rising costs, and the holidays—financial stress is real, especially when you’re also managing medical bills. In this episode of How to Triage Health, hosts Michaela Tobin and Monica Bryant, Esq., share practical strategies to help you stay in control before, during, and after receiving medical care.

They cover everything from choosing the right health insurance plan and avoiding surprise bills, to understanding pre-authorizations, reading your Explanation of Benefits (EOB), and negotiating or organizing your medical bills. Whether you’re navigating new expenses or trying to make ends meet, this episode breaks down how to stay organized, ask the right questions, and find financial help when you need it most.

Key Takeaways

• Start before treatment: Review your health insurance plan carefully—look beyond the premium. Check deductibles, co-pays, out-of-pocket maximums, and confirm that your doctors, hospitals, labs, and medications are in-network.

• Verify, verify, verify: Don’t rely solely on online lists or portals. Always double-check with both your insurer and your provider that a provider is in-network.

• Know your rights: The No Surprises Act protects patients from certain out-of-network charges, but it’s still essential to confirm coverage ahead of time.

• Get pre-authorizations: Always ask if a procedure or service requires one—and confirm it was obtained. Ultimately, it’s the patient’s responsibility.

• Wait for your EOB: Before paying any bill, compare it to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Mistakes happen—request itemized bills and question anything that looks wrong.

• Ask for help early: Don’t ignore bills. Contact providers about payment plans or charity care before accounts go to collections.

• Get organized: Use Triage Health’s Medical Bill Tracker or your own system (binder, folders, spreadsheet). Keep copies of all bills, EOBs, authorizations, and communications.

• Triage Health Navigating Finances – Guides, webinars, and quick references to help you avoid the financial burden of a chronic and serious medical diagnosis (often referred to as financial toxicity), manage medical bills and debt, pay for prescriptions, find financial help, budget, and more

• No Surprises Act – Federal protections against unexpected out-of-network medical bills.

• Medical Bill Tracker Worksheet – Stay organized and keep track of your bills, EOBs, and payments.

• Financial Big Picture Tool – Assess your overall financial situation and plan for next steps.

• Triage Health Legal & Financial Navigation Program – Connects individuals with pro bono Certified Financial Planners for free, personalized guidance.

• State Resources – Find local assistance programs, legal protections, and financial support near you.

• Charts of State Laws – ​​

• Blog: Understanding Health Insurance: What’s the Difference Between Self-Insured and Insured Employer Plans?

Memorable Quote

“You’re not powerless. Medical bills are intimidating, but you can ask questions, dispute charges, negotiate, and ask for help. The more organized and proactive you are, the better your chances of maintaining financial stability.” — Monica Bryant, Esq.

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

• Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

• Facebook:⁠ ⁠Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

• LinkedIn: ⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

• Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ @triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠

AskTriage Email — Send questions to [email protected] for potential inclusion in future episodes and individualized help.

Hosts:            

• Michaela Tobin, Outreach Coordinator, Triage Cancer
• Monica Fawzy Bryant, Esq., Chief Mission Officer, Triage Cancer

In this episode

When facing a serious medical diagnosis, the questions don’t stop with treatment. How do you protect your income? What rights do you have at work? Where can you find accurate, up-to-date answers?

In this episode of How to Triage Health, hosts Michaela Tobin and Monica Bryant explore the importance of finding reliable information in today’s digital world. Monica highlights how online advice can sometimes miss the mark, how algorithms shape what we see, and why even well-intentioned professionals may unintentionally share inaccurate guidance when stepping outside their area of expertise.

Listeners will walk away with strategies to identify trustworthy resources, understand the risks of misinformation, and know where to turn for reliable guidance on insurance, legal rights, and financial protections.

Featured Resources Mentioned

• Triage Cancer
• Triage Health
• Triage Health Legal & Financial Navigation
• Triage Health Insurance Resources

Connect with Triage Cancer & Triage Health:

Website:⁠   ⁠⁠⁠TriageCancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠TriageHealth.org⁠⁠

Social:

●     Instagram:: ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triage_health⁠⁠

●     Facebook:⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage_Health⁠⁠

●     LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Triage Cancer⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Triage Health⁠⁠

●     Bluesky:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagecancer.org⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@triagehealth.org⁠