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Health Insurance and Financial Assistance for the Cancer Patient

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How to manage your health insurance

  • DO NOT let your health insurance expire.
  • If you are changing insurance plans, don't let one policy lapse until the new one goes into effect -- this includes when you are switching to Medicare.
  • Pay premiums in full and on time. It is often difficult and expensive to get new insurance.
  • Know the details of your individual insurance plan and its coverage. Get a copy of your plan's summary description (SPD), which tells you how the plan works, what benefits it provides, and how to get the benefits or file your claim. If you think you might need more insurance, ask your insurance carrier if it is available.
  • Submit claims for all medical expenses even when you are not sure if they are covered.
  • Keep accurate and complete records of claims submitted, pending (waiting), and paid.
  • Keep copies of all paperwork related to your claims, such as letters of medical necessity, explanations of benefits (EOBs), bills, receipts, requests for sick leave or family medical leave (FMLA), and correspondence with insurance companies.
  • Get a caseworker, a hospital financial counselor, or a social worker to help you if your finances are limited. Often, companies or hospitals can work with you to make special payment arrangements if you let them know about your situation.
  • Send in your bills for reimbursement as you get them. If you become overwhelmed with bills, get help. Contact local support organizations, such as your American Cancer Society or your state's government agencies, for extra help.
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    Last Medical Review: 01/05/2011
    Last Revised: 06/27/2011

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