Traveling for Care
A cancer diagnosis can leave you feeling overwhelmed, especially if standard treatments have not worked. Many patients and families come to us from across the U.S. when they need new options, faster access, and hope beyond what larger institutions can provide.
Founded in 1992 by Dr. Sant P. Chawla, a pioneer in rare and difficult-to-treat cancers, the Cancer Center of Southern California is internationally recognized for advancing oncology research and clinical trials. For more than 30 years, we have helped patients access therapies not widely available elsewhere, while focusing on both survival and quality of life.
Financial Assistance & Insurance Navigation
We are committed to removing financial barriers to cancer treatment whenever possible.
- Clinical Trial Support: Many clinical trials cover some travel and lodging costs. Our research team helps you understand which benefits may apply for you.
- Insurance Navigation: Our dedicated insurance team can work directly with your insurer to maximize coverage and minimize delays.
- Support for HMO & Kaiser Patients: Even patients with restrictive insurance plans, such as HMOs and Kaiser, may be eligible to participate in clinical trials through our center.
- Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs: When your insurance doesn’t cover certain treatments, or if you do not have insurance coverage, we can assist patients in applying for free medications and therapies offered by pharmaceutical sponsors.
Patient Reviews
“This place is unreal, never ever have I seen people so helpful, compassionate, and kind, everybody has smiles on their faces, Staff you don't even know has knowledge about your situation, I sit in amazement 3 days a week witnessing staff from the front desk all the way to Asha in the back being absolute Saints, everyone is absolutely wonderful, even Milo brings us joy every Friday. Lulu, Kim, Micheal, and Stephanie make you feel so LOVED. They pay attention to what's going on with you. Dr. Chawla comes around and personally talks to patients every day.”
“Dr. Chawla and his team of physicians/staff are incredibly talented, knowledgeable, caring & compassionate people. I had been misdiagnosed in Northern California. After 1 year of traditional chemotherapy, which did not work, I was left facing imminent death from my very rare cancer. After searching the internet, my spouse found Dr. Chawla & his Cancer Center of Southern California and decided to email. Within minutes, Dr. Chawla called us on a Saturday, which totally blew us away, and had us meet the following week to discuss treatments & clinical trials. That was 3 years ago. My cancer typically results in death within 6-12 months. Dr. Chawla & Staff began treatments immediately & stabilized my tumor & spared my life. I highly recommend the Cancer Center of Southern California!”
“The Cancer Center of Southern California is the best place to go to if you are seeking treatment for cancer. The doctors there are the best in their respective fields, and they make sure that each patient consultation is maximized. They are able to explain to patients their diagnoses in layman's terms, list all the possible options available for treatment, and make sure that patients are given adequate guidance in their journey back to good health. The nurses and staff are efficient, friendly, and exhibit professionalism. They make sure that patients are comfortable while getting treatment and listen attentively to the patients' needs. The clinic is also known for conducting numerous clinical trials, certainly something that patients might be interested in looking into if they are unhappy with their current treatment.”
Planning Your Visit
Here’s what you can expect when preparing for your first appointment at our center.
- Contact Us: Call our patient support team at (310) 552-9999 or use our secure online form to schedule an appointment.
- Send Records: We’ll review your medical records and determine the best treatment options quickly.
- Schedule Your Visit: In most cases, you’ll be scheduled for a consultation the same week.
- Coordinate Travel & Housing: Our team assists with accommodations, transportation, and any special needs.
- Begin Treatment: You’ll meet with our oncologists, review your personalized plan, and start your treatment without unnecessary delay.
Where to Stay in Santa Monica & Nearby
From extended-stay hotels to furnished apartments, Santa Monica offers a range of accommodations for patients and families. Our team can help you find the right fit for your stay.
Here are a few recommended hotel and lodging options.
JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot
1740 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401 | (310) 395-9700
Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica
1707 4th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401 | (310) 395-3332
Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica
530 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405 | (310) 399-9344
Comfort Inn Santa Monica – West Los Angeles
2815 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 | (310) 828-5517
Best Western Plus Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
1920 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404 | (310) 829-9100
Pearl Recovery Retreat at SLS Hotel Beverly Hills
465 South La Cienega Blvd, Suite 375, Los Angeles, CA 90048 | (310) 331-8786
For longer visits, furnished apartments and rental homes near the beach can provide privacy and comfort. We can also connect you with local leasing agents.
Getting Here & Getting Around
By Air
Most patients fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is about 20 minutes from our center in Santa Monica. Another option is Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, which may be convenient depending on your departure city.
Ground Transportation
- Private Services: We recommend CoolRide, a professional sedan and limousine service, which can be arranged directly at (888) 812-2665 or coordinated through our office.
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are widely available and can be scheduled directly from your smartphone.
- Taxi Services: Local providers include Santa Monica Taxi and LA Yellow Cab.
- Car Rentals: Numerous rental companies operate at LAX and throughout Santa Monica.
- Public Transit: Santa Monica is one of the most walkable cities in Southern California and is well connected by bus services:
- Big Blue Bus - bigbluebus.com
- LA Metro - metro.net
Transportation Assistance
For those who may face challenges arranging rides, several non-profit organizations offer free or low-cost transportation to medical care.
Programs like the American Cancer Society’s Rides to Treatment, Air Charity Network, Angel Flight West, and Corporate Angel Network connect patients with volunteer drivers or pilots to help ensure that transportation is never a barrier to receiving care.
Our team can guide you to these resources if you need extra support during your treatment journey.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
Traveling for cancer care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The Cancer Center of Southern California has decades of experience supporting out-of-town patients through every step, from arranging travel to delivering world-class treatment.
To schedule an appointment, please call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
In many, but not all, clinical trials, travel and lodging costs may be reimbursed by the study sponsor. Our research team will let you know if this applies to your trial and guide you through the process.
The length of stay depends on your individual treatment plan. Some patients stay for a week, while others may need to remain for several months. Our team will help you plan your accommodations based on your treatment schedule.
We generally recommend that patients remain in Santa Monica until the full course of treatment is completed, plus an additional week of rest before taking a long flight or car ride. Your treating physician will give you specific guidance based on your recovery plan.
Most patients fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 20 minutes from our center. Bob Hope Airport in Burbank is another option, depending on your departure city.
Yes. Many patients with HMO or Kaiser insurance are able to participate in clinical trials through our center. Our team will help you understand your options and eligibility.
