Cancer Policy Basics
In the U.S. men have a 1 and 2 lifetime risk of developing cancer, and for women the risk is 1 in 3*. As serious as the threat of cancer may be, new and improved medical treatments are being introduced and studies are showing that regular screening test can detect some cancers in the early stages*.
The five-year relative survival rate for screening-accessible cancers is about 86 percent*. If all Americans participated in regular cancer screenings, this rate could increase. But with high technology come high cost. The American Cancer Society reports that cancer cost Americans more than $206 Billion annually*. And much of that amount is considered indirect or hidden cost NOT covered by major medical plans.
| Direct CostsMost Major MedicalPlans cover: | Indirect CostYou Pay: |
| 38% | 62% |
| -Hospital Charges | -Loss of wages |
| -Physician fees | -Deductibles or coinsurance |
| -Surgeon fees | -Travel Expenses to and from treatment centers |
| -Medication and drug cost | -Lodging and meals |
| -Radiological fees | -Child Care |
*Cancer Facts and Figures, American Cancer Society, 2007
Quick Facts about Cancer Protection Policies.
- Pays Regardless of any other insurance you have with other insurance companies.
- Cancer screening benefits that you can use even if you are never diagnosed with cancer.
- Guaranteed renewable as long as premiums are paid when due.
- Benefits are paid DIRECTLY to YOU.
- Flexible coverage options for individuals and families.
What it covers
Cancer insurance provides benefits in addition to your other medical or disability insurance. Here are some of the major benefits a supplemental cancer insurance policy might provide. (Cancer insurance policies can differ, so read your policy’s explanation of benefits carefully.)
- First occurrence payment. This flat dollar amount is paid the first time you are ever diagnosed with cancer and can be used for whatever you need. Anywhere from $1000 to $50,000.
- Hospital confinement. Pays a daily dollar amount for each day you must stay in the hospital.
- Diagnostic testing and drugs. Pays an additional dollar amount for drugs and testing related to cancer treatment while you are in the hospital
- Surgeon or physician. Pays a daily dollar amount for the services of an attending doctor or surgeon while in the hospital.
- Private nursing. Pays a daily dollar amount for the services of a private nurse (if required) while in the hospital.
- Patient transportation. Pays the cost of transportation by plane, train or bus if you must travel to receive treatment.
- Family transportation and lodging. If you must travel a long distance for treatment, pays for a family member to accompany you and stay nearby.
- Nursing facility or hospice. Pays a daily dollar amount for staying in a nursing care facility or hospice.
- Surgical procedures.Pays a scheduled dollar amount for surgery related to diagnosing and treating cancer. Anesthesia benefits are also available.
- Cancer therapies. Pays a daily dollar amount for radiation, chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, blood products and anti-nausea medication.
Who needs it?
You may not need cancer insurance, but you might want to consider this supplemental coverage. You should think about purchasing cancer insurance if:
- You have a family history of cancer. (Although, if you’ve already been diagnosed with cancer in the past, you probably won’t qualify for coverage.)
- You don’t have enough in savings to pay medical bills your regular health insurance won’t cover.
- You are your family’s sole wage earner.
- You are concerned about protecting your family’s financial assets.
What are the issue ages?
This will vary depending on the insurer. We offer policies from ages 18-85.
Are there waiting periods?
In most states there is a 30 day waiting period from the date of issue before any benefits will be payable. This is common in cancer insurance policies
I currently have cancer or have had cancer in the past, will I still get coverage?
If you currently have cancer or have had cancer within the past 10 years, you will most likely be denied coverage. If you have only had a minor skin cancer, you may still be able to get coverage. Talk to us further about your situation and we will be able to let you know if coverage will be accepted.
I currently smoke, will that affect my price or coverage?
It will not affect your coverage however some companies charge a higher premium depending on the last time you smoked.
Do you offer Lump Sum Cancer Policies?
Yes, we offer both Lump Sum polices that pay large benefits upfront as well as indemnity policies that payout over the course of treatment.
I currently have health insurance will this affect my coverage?
Not at all. Cancer insurance is designed to help supplement any medical coverage you currently have. Whether you use the money to pay deductibles associated with your medical insurance or for expenses medical insurance does not cover such as the mortgage payment, the money you receive is yours to do whatever you see fit to make ends meet.

