How to Get Insurance for a Cancer Patient

A cancer diagnosis is a devastating thing, but even more devastating for those who are not insured. The tremendous cost of successful cancer treatment is prohibitive to most people who do not have insurance. However, shopping for insurance after being diagnosed with cancer is also difficult, because many insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions. It is possible, however, to find insurance for a cancer patient with some patience and digging. You must understand that this is not a quick, simple process, but there are resources available for uninsured cancer patients.

Things You'll Need

• Insurance broker

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Instructions

• 1

  Consider extending your current insurance through COBRA. Your insurance provider cannot drop your coverage due to your diagnosis, and COBRA is a federal law that allows you to continue using your employer-provided insurance as long as you pay the group rate for it. Remember, though, that COBRA is not a permanent solution, so you will need to start shopping for insurance.

• 2

  Look for a plan that does not require you to disclose medical conditions or will not deny coverage based on health problems. These are called "guaranteed issue" plans. While these are often expensive insurance plans, they are better than not having one at all.

• 3

  Use HIPAA laws when changing jobs. Under HIPAA law, you are entitled to receive health insurance from your new employer, if it is offered, regardless of your health or the health of your family. HIPAA only applies to those people who have had insurance for at least 12 months prior to changing jobs.

• 4

  Consider working with an independent broker. Make sure that the broker knows about your condition so that he can shop for insurance for a cancer patient.

• 5

  Check if your state has a guaranteed issue individual insurance plan. These are offered no matter what your health conditions may be.

• 6

  Consider joining an HMO in your area. HMOs often offer an annual open enrollment period, and during this time you can apply without a health screening.

• 7

  Check into state programs, like Medicare and Medicaid. If you have a low income, you may be able to get insurance for a cancer patient through the state.