Financial Aspects Of Chemotherapy

With the diagnosis of
cancer, you find yourself
entering a new and
confusing world.

Chemotherapy medications are generally covered by provincial governments or the federal government, usually through hospitals or cancer clinics. You probably will not have to worry about the cost of chemotherapy. However, supportive care medications are not always covered under provincial plans. You may wish to look into other insurance possibilities in case you require supportive care medications during your chemotherapy.

Reimbursement/Drug Plan

If your doctor prescribes supportive care medications, you may be covered under your own private insurance plan, your spouse's policy, or a plan provided by your province or the federal government (Veteran/Indian Affairs/Armed Forces) or eligible for reimbursement. If you are eligible for coverage with more than one insurer when filing your supportive care medication claim, contact all health plans to determine which is your primary insurer and how benefits are coordinated amongst the insurers. Also find out whether you will be required to pay a deductible and co-payment.

Supportive care medications are covered by most health plans. While many insurers cover prescription medication obtained from pharmacies, always check with your plan to be certain. Even if you currently are not a member of an insurance plan, you may be covered under a program funded by the federal government.

Private insurance plans vary, so it's important to familiarize yourself with your policy or program. Most insurers require patients to pay for a portion of their medical care out of pocket, usually in the form of deductibles or co-payment. Your policy's handbook will explain how much of the cost of prescription medicine you will have to pay.

To prepare yourself, please print out this form (PDF) and answer the questions so that you can discuss your insurance coverage and financial assistance possibilities with your healthcare professional.

Note: You will require Acrobat Reader to open the form. If you don't have it already, you can get it free here.

Once you feel prepared for your treatments, the next step in your journey is to find out effective strategies for communicating with others.

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