In the not too distant past, cancer was seen as a total mystery. Today, however, research has helped shine a light on its causes, and evolving screening and treatment options provide further hope for understanding and battling this terrible disease. Moreover, genetic testing can be a helpful predictor of whether certain cancers are likely to occur. 

Yet, as diagnosis and treatment options evolve, something else is changing: the cancer itself. "Cancer cells are smart," says Dr. Pamela Crilley, chair of the Department of Medical Oncology at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. "They can become resistant to certain treatments. They can also lie dormant for long periods of time and come back later." 

In addition to changes in the way this disease behaves — as well as the methods to treat it — another change is happening: Cancer insurance is evolving to help meet the needs of modern-day patients and their families.   

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Building a better cancer insurance policy 

Cancer insurance helps protect people from cancer-related expenses that may not be covered by major medical insurance. These include deductibles and copayments, as well as everyday living expenses such as utility bills, car payments, child care costs, and even the mortgage or rent. 

But as cancer care evolves, consider partnering with an insurer whose policies are continuously enhanced to help address those advances. Examples include: 

  • Coverage for screening tests and surgeries performed as a result of positive genetic testing

  • Wellness payouts for early diagnosis

  • Access to emotional support from oncology social workers and support groups

  • Nonsurgical treatments, such as immunocology

  • Annual care benefits to help manage costs associated with the effects of chemotherapy and radiation

  • Benefits for a child diagnosed with cancer 

Why cancer insurance? 

The National Cancer Institute estimates the number of people living beyond a cancer diagnosis will reach almost 19 million by 2024. Many will be employees who rely on their companies for access to insurance that helps defray the cost of care and treatment. As the focus on corporate social responsibility grows, resulting in increased attention to the way companies treat their workforces, offering cancer insurance can help provide a rich benefits package that allows clients to communicate their care for their employees. 

Decisions about voluntary cancer insurance shouldn't be seen as a mystery. As your clients look to you for advice and expertise on building the strongest possible benefits package, discuss the importance of providing employees with access to coverage addressing the evolution of cancer care. By doing so, you will provide benefits that help make that care financially accessible. 

This article is for informational purposes and is not intended as a solicitation.

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