For most cancer survivors, the costs of initial treatment and continuing care are a major concern. What happens to insurance coverage and costs after treatment for cancer?

In general, people who had life and health insurance before treatment are able to keep it, although costs and benefits may change. Those who change jobs or apply for new policies, however, may encounter problems. Survivors are encouraged to read the The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 and to:

• Get a copy of insurance policies and find out exactly what coverage is included.
• Keep careful records of all covered expenses and claims.
• File claims for all covered costs. Surprisingly, many cancer survivors don't take full advantage of their insurance, either because they don't know about a benefit or are confused or put off by the paperwork.
• Get help in filing a claim if needed. If friends or family can't assist, patients should ask a social worker for help.
• Private companies and some community organizations also offer help with insurance filing.
• If a claim is turned down, file again. Ask the doctor to explain to the company why the services meet the requirements for coverage under the policy. Patients who are turned down again should find out if the insurance company has an appeals process.
• Keep insurance needs in mind when changing job status.
• A patient should not leave a job with insurance benefits until the patient has a new job with good coverage or has made other plans for insurance. This is also important for a spouse to keep in mind if they are covered under the survivor's policy.
• Look at the differences in insurance coverage and other benefits offered by various employers. A cancer survivor may be better off taking a new job with a lower salary that has better insurance coverage.

Previous Page