According to the American Cancer Society, nearly one in every two Americans will get cancer. The good news is that more than 65 per cent of these patients can live for five years after their diagnosis if they are treated early and receive targeted treatment.

“It’s important to know what is reasonable to ask of your doctors, employers and insurers because the odds are that you or a loved one will develop cancer at some point,”Louis B. Harrison is a radiation oncologist at Continuum Cancer Centers in New York and Chairman for the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology.

What should you ask and look for? Patients, their families, and their friends should be aware of their rights. These rights could make all the differences during and after cancer treatment. Take a look at these:

– You are allowed to ask questions. It is important to choose the right cancer treatment. Ask as many questions and questions as possible until you feel comfortable. Be wary of doctors who don’t answer.

– You can determine whether a treatment will work. Although doctors can’t predict the outcome of a treatment, they can tell you with some certainty whether it will work. Doctors do have access to the most recent research, so they should be able tell you if a treatment is effective for your particular type of cancer. Be aware of unproven treatments.

Side effects are something you have the right to know about. These side effects should be considered when you decide which treatment is best for you. You should not be deceived by anyone who says a treatment has no side effect.

– You can have a second, third, fourth, or fifth opinion. Your cancer treatment decisions are yours. Ask for recommendations from multiple specialists who are experts in your particular type of cancer. This includes a surgeon, a radio oncologist (a doctor who specializes in radiation therapy), and a medical oncologist (a physician who specializes in chemotherapy). Request that your case be reviewed at a patient conference in your hospital or cancer center.

You have the right to know what your medical leave is. Talk to your employer about your medical leave and disability policies as you make your plans. If you can, request a written agreement.

– You are entitled to know the costs of your treatment. Even if your insurance covers you, expensive treatments can occur. Before treatment begins, talk to your doctor and your insurance provider about your costs. This will help you plan for the future.

To receive a complimentary brochure on understanding the treatment of cancer, please visit www.rtanswers.org.

The pace of life today is rapid. The rise of digital technology has allowed people to communicate with each other via the internet and simultaneously check their children’s soccer scores. With the advent of the Internet, consumers can expect the same conveniences from all services and businesses except their insurance companies. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.

It is no longer enough to be insured, as nearly two-thirds of American households have less income than 2002. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is critical for both financial recovery and physical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Employers are being forced to reduce costs as rising health care costs put even more financial pressure on their employees.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

Some people might have to wait as long as a month to receive their insurance payments. Many insurance companies are able to provide customers with fast service thanks to modern technology and better understanding of their needs. This is just one example. AflacIn the insurance industry, it is rare to find policies that allow for claims approval, processing, and payment within one day.

In the past, fast payment policies were a luxury. It is a necessity in today’s world. It’s vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay guarantee can be found on aflac.com/onedaypay.