Lung Cancer Awareness Month – Gain Peace Of Mind With Health Insurance

 

With lung cancer becoming such a recognized medical issue among Canadians, it’s become important to gain peace of mind with health insurance. The costs can add up for an uninsured person and it’s important to sign up for health insurance as soon as possible.

Here’s more on lung cancer, its costs, and why health insurance is a must for Canadians.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer involves abnormal cellular growth in one or both lungs. This growth is uneven, uncontrolled, and harmful. As the cancerous cells develop, they begin to invade surrounding tissues and create noticeable tumors (size can vary). Please note, lung cancer doesn’t follow an established pattern and will provide a diverse range of symptoms. The cancerous cells can grow in any part of the lungs and can also provoke any or different parts of the respiratory system.

Over time, the cancer cells begin to “metastasize” or spread, which starts to pressure the lymph nodes and other regions of the body past the lungs.

It’s important to note, lung cancers come in various forms and can be branched out to a more precise description. For example, there are small cell lung cancers, which tend to grow rapidly and are termed as an aggressive form of lung cancer. While non-small cell lung cancers are generally slower to progress and will remain in the same region for longer periods.

What is the main cause of lung cancer?

According to studies done on the subject, lung cancer is caused by smoking [2]. However, this doesn’t mean lung cancer is only restricted to smokers. It can also happen when the body is routinely exposed to second-hand smoke, radioactive dust, radon, and asbestos. Any long-term exposure to these pollutants can lead to an increased chance of cancerous developments. A person may be at a higher risk if they work around radioactive chemicals and it’s important to take precautions at all times.

Costs of Lung Cancer Treatments

One of the most important factors associated with lung cancer is the treatment and its costs. While the Canadian health system provides access to several treatment options, there are underlying costs to manage the condition such as prescription drugs. Patients will notice these costs as soon as they begin treating the condition head-on.

Before looking at the costs, let’s break down how the treatment is carried out and all of the different phases.

Phases of treatment and their costs:

1) Pre-Diagnosis: This can include hospitalization and ongoing diagnostic tests.

2) Initial Diagnosis: This begins with hospitalization, physician services, and at times limited surgical procedures depending on the case.

3) Continuing Phase: Further hospitalizations and potential institutional care.

4) Terminal Phase: Hospitalizations, institution-based care, and hospice/home care depending on the case.

Each phase is unique and will include varying levels of treatment. All of these details are discussed with the patient and their oncologist. It’s important to note there are ongoing costs associated with these treatments and it’s best to remain aware of them well in advance.

According to research, the costs can end up close to $43,000+ for lung cancer and sometimes well beyond this number [3]. Studies have also shown growing costs associated with newer drugs that are prescribed to cancer patients. As a result, this number can rise based on the symptoms a patient is displaying at the time of their appointment.

Benefits of Health Insurance

With the costs in mind, it’s time to look at the benefits of health insurance and why it’s important to stay on top of this at all times. Anyone that is worried about lung cancer in Canada needs to put this at the top of their list of things to do. Health insurance with a world-class agency can provide tremendous peace of mind and is essential in the long-term.

Here are some of the main benefits associated with health insurance.

1) Protection From Ongoing Medical Costs

Medical costs are rising, and lung cancer is among the most expensive cancers to treat. The costs can include a wide array of details including:

* Prescription Drugs
* Ambulatory Services
* Lab Services
* Rehab
* Related Oral and Vision Care Services

All of these medical costs are covered by a quality health insurance plan. By signing up with a good insurance agency, it’s easier to manage the situation and remain on top of things from day one.

2) Peace of Mind

This is one of the most underrated benefits of health insurance and what it has to offer. Living a peaceful life includes feeling safe at all times and not worrying about potential financial issues such as medical costs. No one plans to fall ill but it can happen at any point.

Therefore, health insurance provides peace of mind in a situation such as this.

3) Top Network of Providers

Health insurance agencies will provide access to some of the nation’s finest medical professionals with years of expertise in managing lung cancer developments. This is essential when it comes to receiving a high level of care every step of the way. Patients are able to sign up through the network and manage their condition without worrying about increasing costs.

4) Tax Benefits

Yes, there are tax benefits associated with health insurance, and it’s best to speak to a qualified accountant immediately. The government provides several tax advantages based on the type of health insurance coverage an individual has. Take the time to learn about these nuances and pay less.

Lung cancer continues to remain a medical problem among Canadians and it’s important to take action now. With increasing costs associated with cancers such as lung cancer, it’s best to take action in the form of health insurance. A good coverage plan will provide peace of mind and ensure everything is protected in your life.

References

1) http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/lung/statistics/?region=pe
2) https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hw183816
3) http://www.cqco.ca/common/pages/UserFile.aspx?fileId=365977