“Why should I purchase a cancer plan; I have a good, comprehensive, major medical and catastrophic coverage plan?” That is the question almost always asked of me when I mention a specialty product like a cancer plan. The first answer is simply that there are so many non-medical expenses associated with cancer. This is often a chronic disease which could possibly keep you home from work for months. So, your major medical pays the doctor bill; but who pays the water, electricity or phone bill while you have been off the job for a while? Often, a patient is instructed to travel to see a specialist. Perhaps your family physician wants you to go to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota or Sloan Kettering Center in New York. There are traveling expenses, meals, housing expenses and sometimes child-care expenses. Perhaps your spouse needs to come along. These are non-medical expenses usually not covered in your insurance policy.
Most folks have insurance deductibles, co-insurance and copays that must be paid out of pocket; or additional co- pays for a specialist or prescription drugs. These costs can build up quickly. My personal experience with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (in 1987) lasted ten months and nearly bankrupted me. I decided to leave behind my life in Colorado and return home to Indiana and live with my parents until marriage three years later. Yes, cancer can really disrupt a life and devastate one’s savings.
Nowadays, most cancer plans are designed with simplicity. Upon the occasion of your being diagnosed with cancer, the insurance company sends a lump sum check. The amount may be $20,000. or $50,000, or whatever amount you choose when applying for the plan with your insurance professional. I personally work with companies like Aetna and Guaranteed Trust Life Insurance Company to bring you the best plan to meet your needs. As I continue to build this web-site, I will be posting additional information on this important issue. In the meantime, please feel free to call me at (219) 613-1079 with your questions or to share your thoughts and insights.