The United States has approximately 50 million people without insurance. Young adults make up the largest proportion of those who are uninsured. health insurance. However, for childhood cancer survivors, it is best to go without health insuranceIt is not an option.
“As a cancer survivor, you will need health insurance more than ever,”Pam Gabris is Beyond the Cure Coordinator. “If you don’t have a lapse in coverage, an insurer cannot deny coverage for your illness or related health problems. It’s critical that you fully understand your rights and responsibilities under your health insurance plan to ensure continuous, dependable coverage.”
The Affordable Care act, which was passed in 2010, allows young adults to be covered as dependents on their parents health insurance if under 26. There are many other insurance options available if this is not an option.
Employer-Provided Health Insurance. Employer-provided insurance is typically a type of managed care. Preferred Provider Organizations and Point of Service Plans (POS), Health Maintenance Organizations and Health Savings Accounts are some of the most common forms of managed care. Ask your human resources manager about which policy you are covered by.
Group Insurance. Self-employed or those who don’t have coverage through your employer, there are often group insurance options available. This can be provided by groups such as fraternal and professional organizations, student associations, labor unions or other special interest groups. To avoid fraud, make sure you check with your state’s Insurance Office.
Federal and State Programs. Find out if your state or federal insurance covers you for health care through Medicaid or State Children’s Health Insurance Programs. The Affordable Care Act states that pre-existing insurance is now available in all fifty states.
Drug Coverage Programs. Programs such as the Medicare Prescription Discount Card and Together Rx Access Card provide relief from the high cost of prescription drugs. The National Children’s Cancer Society provides a free prescription discount card which offers substantial savings on generic and branded medications. You can find participating pharmacies on the NCCS.agelity.com and print a card.
Individual Policies. Individual policies can be expensive. Make sure to explore other options before you purchase. For the best plan possible, consult an insurance broker or the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
To learn more, visit beyondthecure.org
