Can you get health insurance if you have cancer?

Have cancer and wondering if you can still get health insurance? Cancer coverage does exist, and is a key part of how the Affordable Care Act changed health insurance.

Cancer and the Affordable Care Act

Plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act in the United States cannot deny you health coverage or discriminate against you in any way if you have a pre-existing condition, including cancer. So even if you have cancer, your health insurance company cannot kick you off your plan. They also cannot charge you more for your plan.

The ACA also made two important changes that are particularly important for people who need expensive medical treatments. First, it got rid of annual and lifetime dollar limits on care that a particular individual can receive. Secondly, it introduced a maximum annual limit on what an individual can spend in out-of-pocket costs for their health care. (In 2020, this will be $8,150; it’s important to know that this does not include your health insurance premiums.) 

This is particularly good news for cancer patients who may be currently undergoing intense cancer care and ongoing treatment. And this also applies to cancer survivors who may be worried about whether they will be able to afford treatment again should they come out of remission.To learn more, grab our free step-by-step guide to enrolling in Marketplace health insurance here.

Understanding your plan's cancer coverage

Every health insurance plan has different details in terms of what coverage for cancer-related care looks like. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your health plan if you are pursuing cancer treatment. Have health insurance coverage through Obamacare and have a cancer diagnosis? Unsure of how best to maximize your specific insurance policy? You can always contact a HealthSherpa Consumer Advocate at (872) 228-2549 to find out more. 

Before enrolling in a plan, it’s important to make sure it complies with the Affordable Care Act. Otherwise, it may not have to include these consumer protections. HealthSherpa only offers ACA-compliant plans, so you can be sure that you’re making a safe choice when you enroll through us. 

You can shop for plans here, call a Consumer Advocate at (872) 228-2549, or enter your zip code below to see available plans in your area. 

Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare and cancer coverage

You can also apply for Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) at any time, even outside of Open Enrollment, and if you qualify you can enroll and have your coverage start almost immediately. For Medicare, those who are eligible can apply when they turn 65.