Medicare
Cancer and Medicare: questions to ask before you pick a plan
If you are in treatment, the plan that fits best is usually the one that includes your cancer center and your oncologist, and that has a yearly out-of-pocket limit you can live with.
Questions that matter most
- Is my cancer center in the plan's network, and is my specific oncologist?
- What is the plan's yearly out-of-pocket limit, and does it count everything?
- Are my treatment drugs covered, and under what rules, such as approval before treatment?
- Do I need referrals or approvals for scans and treatments?
Do not switch in the middle of treatment without checking
A plan change takes effect on a set date. Before you switch, confirm that your next scheduled treatments will still be covered, and ask what happens to treatment that has already been approved.
Have this ready when you call
- Your oncologist's and cancer center's names
- Your treatment drugs
- Your treatment schedule
- Your current plan's card
Common questions
Does Original Medicare have a yearly limit?
Original Medicare does not have a yearly limit on what you pay, though a Medicare supplement can cover many of the costs. Advantage plans have a yearly limit.
Can I be denied a Medicare supplement because of cancer?
Outside certain windows, a supplement insurer can look at your health in most states. There are times when you cannot be turned down, so ask about the dates.
Related answers
Rather talk it through?
Call 855-367-1095 and a licensed agent will go through your situation with you. There is no charge to ask, and no obligation to enroll.
- Licensed insurance help
- No guaranteed eligibility, pricing, or availability
- Educational starting point
GetFastRates.com is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Calling connects you with licensed insurance help. Plan availability, costs, benefits, and enrollment rules can vary by state, carrier, and individual situation.