Health Insurance Coverage for Breast Cancer: What You Need To Know

Learn about breast cancer insurance options, coverage for critical illness, and financial protection through corporate and individual healthcare plans.

October 24, 2024
Insurance Guides, Reliable Guides, Reliable Resources

No one is exempt from breast cancer. In the face of it, cases are also rising. Or perhaps detection methods have advanced. Several famous women have bravely faced this disease, such as Filipino celebrities like Dr. Vicki Belo and Maritoni Fernandez, who came out on the other side thriving.

The important thing to remember about their experience is that they endured after their diagnosis. Breast cancer is no longer a death sentence that it is thought to be: with early detection, treatments can be successful and survival assured. Thus, Dr. Vicki Belo remains the most visible success in the field of dermatology in the country, and actress Maritoni Fernandez is continuing her acting career well into this day, more than two decades after being diagnosed.

Inspirations in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

These women, along with comedian Tetay, actress Glenda Garcia, and Bibeth Orteza, have become inspirations in the fight against breast cancer. Their perseverance in the face of breast cancer reminds us that survival is not only possible but also attainable with determination and support. These stories should encourage us to take action—not just to admire their strength but to learn from their experience and prioritize early detection and timely treatment.

It is through their courage that we are reminded not to be complacent. Early detection as well as timely medical treatment must be sought. Delaying a diagnosis can significantly reduce survival rates, by as much as 17%. The battle against breast cancer is a race against time, and while the financial burden can be substantial, safeguarding one’s health should remain the top priority.

Protecting Against the Financial Burden of Breast Cancer

There are ways to guard, not only against the disease but also, its financial stresses. The average healthcare plan is not enough to cover the full range of treatments and batteries of tests required for breast cancer patients. Fortunately, with increasing awareness about the disease and its prevention, insurance companies have devised affordable and specialized plans designed specifically to address the costs associated with breast cancer treatment.

These specialized breast cancer insurance plans provide more comprehensive coverage not included in general healthcare plans. Their premiums per annum are fairly affordable, allowing policyholders to protect themselves from the potential costs of fighting the disease without causing significant financial strain.

The inclusions are, predictably, most of the treatments required to beat the disease. Here’s what you need to know:

Diagnosis is an investigative process, not a single instance: The patient then has to go through multiple tests and consultations once symptoms are observed. The most common symptoms are pain in the breast area, nipple discharge, and changes in skin texture. Breast cancer diagnosis, especially the determination of its stage, will require a battery of costly tests.
Treatment options must be deliberated and designed: Deciding on treatment requires consultations with a team of healthcare professionals. It is also best to seek second opinions, not only about the diagnosis but about the treatment plans. This means that consultation fees could be frequent. Treatment should also include palliative care, which means managing the symptoms and making the disease as tolerable as possible for the patient.
Treatment options could get expensive. The range of choices includes the following:
- Surgery to remove tumors, followed by
- Chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy, which are post-surgery options for early-stage breast cancer and to prevent cancer cells from coming back
- Immunotherapy: This involves a host of medications to strengthen the immune system and make it resilient to the spread of cancer cells
Breast cancer is covered under most critical illness riders in healthcare plans: If you already have a critical illness rider, you might consider complementing this with an additional affordable breast cancer plan.

Reliable Health Insurance Coverage for Breast Cancer

To support those facing the financial challenges of breast cancer, Reliable Insurance Brokers offers specialized coverage that provides comprehensive financial protection for treatment and care.

Corporate Healthcare Plans

For corporate clients, breast cancer is included under Dreaded Conditions, with limitations on the maximum benefit limit. A key benefit of these plans is that pre-existing conditions are waived, ensuring you get the care you need. This coverage includes:

Consultations: Regular visits to healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Diagnostic Procedures: Coverage for the multiple tests required to diagnose and stage breast cancer, such as mammograms, biopsies, and MRIs.
Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy: Treatment options like chemotherapy and radiation therapy are included to help manage and eliminate cancer cells post-surgery.
Hospitalization: Full coverage for hospital stays required during treatment and recovery.

Individual, Family, and Group Healthcare Plans

For individuals, families, and groups, we provide breast cancer coverage under Dreaded Conditions. There are some limitations on the extent of coverage, but we’ll work with you to ensure you’re informed about what’s included and help you plan accordingly.

If you have any questions or need help understanding your coverage options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Secure Yourself Against Breast Cancer

Regular screenings, proper medical consultations, and securing adequate insurance coverage are your best defenses against breast cancer. Discuss your options with a reliable insurance broker to ensure you’re financially protected against critical illnesses. Carefully assess your current health plan and riders to see if they provide the necessary coverage.