According to Canadian Cancer Statistics, a 2024 Cancer special report on the impact of cancer in Canada, cancer is the leading cause of mortality in Canada and more and more people are diagnosed every year. Today, about 1.5 million Canadians are living with cancer.
The thought of facing a serious illness like cancer can be overwhelming, not just emotionally but also financially. The report estimates a cancer patient will face almost $33,000 on average in out-of-pocket cancer-related costs in their lifetime, including loss of income.
Let’s talk about how health insurance can be crucial in avoiding the financially draining costs of cancer care in Canada.
Isn’t cancer care covered by public health?
Public health insurance covers most cancer treatments and related medical expenses in Canada. The plans vary by province and territory, but most often cover hospital stays, surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy expenses.
While many cancer treatments are covered by the government, there are still significant out-of-pocket expenses you face when you have cancer: the cost of medications, home care, and other services. According to the Cancer Society’s report, people with cancer and their caregivers have to pay about 20% of Canada’s total cancer costs – and that can be an incredibly high price tag. These costs are expected to continue to rise just as more people will be facing a cancer diagnosis.
Canadian Cancer Statistics: Perspectives of people affected by cancer
Here are three perspectives shared in the Canadian Cancer Society’s report
Vanessa’s Perspective
After being diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer, within one year Vanessa has paid over $4,000 out-of-pocket for prescription drugs. She never imagined she would have to pay for other major expenses too, including new ostomy bags every four days, physiotherapy sessions, osteopathic consultations, and visits to a nutritionist.
“It was a huge financial load to carry. There were months when I wondered how I was going to pay the rent. The end of every month was a source of stress because I knew I’d have to call my dad and ask him for the money I was short.”
Natalie’s Perspective
Natalie lost her job when she was undergoing treatment for stage 3 colorectal cancer.
“I needed my employer health insurance benefits because of what I was going through. At the time I was like, ‘What am I going to do?’ I needed drugs that I was paying for myself privately. It was very scary. My husband was going back to school at the time, so there was just lots and lots of financial strain to afford our bills.”
Angus’ Perspective
Angus was diagnosed with lung cancer and then found he also had male breast cancer.
“Recovering in hospital from yet another surgery, I needed a private room because I was immunocompromised. I didn’t ask for this; it was considered a necessity. Imagine my surprise when I received a bill. The last thing you need when you’re facing cancer is unexpected costs. It can easily derail you when you already have so much on your plate.”
Health insurance helps you pay for prescriptions and support services not covered by the government
After a cancer diagnosis, Vanessa, Natalie, and Angus’ focus should have been on their health and recovery – not on their finances.
If they had their own health and dental insurance plan in place, it would have provided support to help cover the out-of-pocket costs, ensuring they could get the necessary healthcare they needed without the added financial stress. The coverage provided with health insurance can be invaluable in managing the overall impact of cancer on your life like
- Some of the cost of assistive devices, such as crutches, canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and prosthetics and home oxygen
- Part of the cost of home care services, such as personal support workers or health care aides or nursing
- Virtual health care– you can have video calls or phone consultations with a medical practitioner from the comfort of your own home, from work or wherever you are for a wide variety of health issues like discussing mental health issues or to talk privately about sexual health
- Referrals and coverage for eligible expenses for therapy appointments to other health practitioners that offers private, confidential virtual care or in person visits including dieticians, psychologists, social workers, chiropractors, naturopaths, and physiotherapists
Health insurance plans can include coverage for
- Prescription Drugs
- Dental Care
- Vision Care
- Hearing Care
- Semi-private or private hospital coverage
- Ambulance costs.
Health insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind
Cancer is a life-changing event that places tremendous physical and emotional burdens on the individual. Health insurance can offer financial protection by covering these additional costs, helping you focus on recovery rather than financial strain.
Knowing that you have comprehensive health insurance can provide peace of mind. It allows you to focus on your health and well-being, rather than the financial implications of your treatment. Health insurance is not just about covering medical bills; it’s about ensuring you have the support and resources you need during a challenging time.
By investing in a good health insurance plan, you can protect yourself and your family from the financial burden of cancer care, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your health and recovery. Even if you have employer coverage today, having your own health plans can ‘fill in gaps’ and as long as you continue to pay your premiums, it will stay with you for your lifetime.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Give us a call today at 416.601.0429 or 1.800.667.0429 toll-free. I’m here to help you navigate your options and find the best plan for your needs.
