In the United States, there are 50 million uninsured. Young adults are the highest-ranking group without insurance. health insurance. However, it is not possible for children who have survived childhood cancer to be without their health insurance.
“As a cancer survivor, you will need health insurance more than ever,”Pam Gabris, 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 insurance. Employer-provided health insurance is often a form managed care. Preferred Provider Organizations, Point of Service Plans and Health Maintenance Organizations are the most popular types of managed care. Talk to your human resource manager if you have questions about the type of policy that covers you.
Group Insurance. Group insurance is sometimes available to self-employed workers and those whose company does not offer coverage.
Student associations, fraternal and corporate organizations, or special-interest groups. Make sure you verify your state’s insurance agency to avoid any fraudulent providers.
Federal and State Programs. You can check to determine if you are eligible for federal or state health insurance 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. Prescription drug prices can be reduced with programs like the Medicare Prescription Card Discount Card or the Together Rx Access Card. A free prescription card from the National Children’s Cancer Society offers significant savings on both generic and brand-name drugs. To locate participating pharmacies, and to print a card, visit theNCCS.agelity.com
Individual Policies. Individual policies can be expensive. Make sure to explore other options before you purchase. Talk to an insurance broker, or contact the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to get the best out of your plan.
To learn more, visit beyondthecure.org
