What is a supplemental cancer policy?

A supplemental cancer policy is insurance separate from your health insurance.  It is meant to supplement your income to help with medical expenses not covered by your primary health insurance.

These plans make payments in one of two ways.

The first way pays directly to the provider for your medical expenses.  These payments are based on your expenses pertaining to your cancer treatments.  You are usually able to use your supplemental policy to cover copays, deductibles, and co-insurance from your primary health insurance.

The second way pays a certain amount of money directly to you.  This can include amounts for your diagnosis, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.  The reasoning behind this method of payment is to allow you to decide how best to use the money. If you are unable to work, you might decide it is more important to pay a utility bill or buy groceries with that supplement.

I have a supplemental cancer policy.  What do I need to do to receive a payment?

In order to be reimbursed, you must submit a claim along with additional information as requested by your supplemental insurance company. It typically includes:

• pathology report
• imaging reports
• doctors’ office notes
• billing statements

You can obtain copies of these documents by asking your providers.  At Alliance Cancer Care, you can ask your nursing team for the required documentation.

Unfortunately, you are unable to get a supplemental cancer policy once you have already received a cancer diagnosis.  If you have one of these policies, it is worthwhile to take advantage of the benefits.  You have paid your premiums for this very reason, and the coverage will most likely alleviate financial worry or stress.

It may also be beneficial to review your policy to see if there are additional ways to receive reimbursement for preventative care.  This can include well-care visits, mammograms, colonoscopies, etc.

If you have questions or need assistance with your supplemental policy, call our office at (256) 319-5400.