Frequently asked questions

Proton Therapy is an advanced form of radiation that uses protons, or positively charged particles, to target cancer cells. Unlike traditional radiation, Proton Therapy can deliver radiation more precisely to the tumor while reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and organs. This targeted, laser-like approach minimizes side effects and potentially improves a patient’s quality of life during and after treatment.

Proton therapy is most successful in treating localized tumors that have not spread to other areas of the body. The Connecticut Proton Therapy Center treats a wide range of cancers with proton therapy. Proton therapy can also be combined with other forms of cancer treatment. A consultation is needed to thoroughly review all treatment options for your specific diagnosis.

The Connecticut Proton Therapy Center is committed to helping you secure approval by providing your insurance company with supporting clinical evidence about your care. We will work with you to complete all the paperwork, explain to your insurance company the reasoning behind your treatment plan, and assist you with the appeal process. Traditional Medicare and most major insurance providers do cover proton therapy treatments for diagnoses deemed medically necessary, but it largely depends on your specific coverage plan and exact case. The center accepts most major medical plans as well as Medicare and Medicaid. An Insurance and Billing Coordinator is on staff to assist patients in navigating the sometimes-confusing insurance process. The Insurance and Billing Coordinator is available to meet with you during your consultation appointment to discuss all options specific to your insurance coverage and diagnosis.

Don’t get discouraged! If your insurance company determined that your case requires further review, your first request might be denied. This happens often and is common in most cases. In fact, it might take several appeals before your submission is approved. We can support you through the process. We will respond directly to insurer questions, write letters of medical necessity, provide supporting documentation, participate in peer-to-peer discussions involving your case, and provide comparative treatment plans as requested. Let us handle the insurance company and take the stress off you.

If proton therapy treatment is recommended and you do not have insurance coverage, the social worker and insurance and billing coordinator on staff can assist you in locating resources that may help supplement the cost of treatment. Payment plans can also be established should you decide to pay for your care out of pocket.

It depends on the disease site but proton therapy can sometimes be less expensive than traditional radiation. The Insurance and Billing Coordinator on staff can assist with any questions you may have following your initial consultation.

A social worker is on staff at the proton center to assist patients and their families who travel from outside of our region for proton therapy. The social worker can assist with: lodging arrangements at a discounted rate for both short and extended stays, complementary tickets to local attractions, transportation scheduling, etc. To contact the social worker, please call (203) 677-2000.

You do not need a referral but a physician referral is preferred. Please contact the proton center to determine if proton therapy may be appropriate for you. Once we speak to you and determine if you are an appropriate candidate, someone from our care team will reach out to your current doctor and request all the necessary information to get you started.

Our doctors, nurses, and radiation therapists will communicate with your “home care” cancer care team before, during, and after proton therapy. During your course of treatment at CPTC, one of our medical oncologists will oversee your care to make sure everything goes according to the treatment plan. You will have full access to all of our services if needed, such as social work and financial counseling.