Cancer Insurance Options for Oregon and Washington

A cancer diagnosis changes everything—emotionally, physically, and financially. While Medicare or health insurance may cover some medical bills, many seniors are surprised by what isn’t covered: travel to treatment, time off work for a spouse, or alternative therapies not included in a plan.


That’s where cancer insurance can help. We work with those who are concerned about the high costs of treatment if they are ever diagnosed with cancer. Supplemental cancer insurance policies will provide a cash benefit when you need it most.

Helping You Plan for the Unexpected

The Financial Reality of Cancer

Did you know 41 in 100 men and 39 in 100 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime? (Source: American Cancer Society)

Even with Medicare, you could still face thousands in:

  • Deductibles and coinsurance
  • Out-of-network costs
  • Lodging and transportation
  • Time away from work for caregivers

What Is Cancer Insurance?

Cancer insurance is a supplemental plan that provides a lump-sum cash benefit upon diagnosis or during treatment. It’s designed to help with the non-medical costs that other insurance doesn’t touch.

A woman is sitting at a desk holding a piece of paper.
An elderly couple is sitting on a couch talking to a man in a suit.

What These Plans Typically Offer

  • Cash paid directly to you, not to doctors or hospitals

  • No restrictions on how money is used

  • Fixed amounts based on policy terms (e.g., $10,000 or $20,000 upon diagnosis)

  • Guaranteed renewable for life

  • Coverage remains in place even if you change Medicare plans

These policies do not replace your health insurance—they work alongside it to give you added peace of mind.

A Real-Life Scenario: How Cancer Insurance Can Help

Imagine you’ve just been diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer. Your Medicare covers much of the treatment—but not the cost of travel to Portland for radiation five days a week, or the lost income your spouse takes missing work to drive you.



A cancer insurance policy could provide a $20,000 cash payout to use however you need—covering:

  • Gas, meals, and hotel stays during treatment

  • Bills while taking unpaid time off

  • Alternative care options like nutrition support or acupuncture

This isn’t theoretical—it’s the kind of support we help our clients plan for.

Questions We Hear About Cancer Insurance

  • What is cancer insurance and is it worth it?

    It’s a supplemental policy that pays cash if you’re diagnosed with cancer. It’s worth considering if you want extra help beyond Medicare.

  • Does Medicare cover cancer fully?

    Medicare covers a lot, but not everything. You may still owe deductibles, 20% coinsurance, or travel costs.

  • How does cancer insurance differ from regular health insurance?

    Health insurance pays doctors and hospitals. Cancer insurance pays you directly.

  • Who should consider it?

    Anyone who wants financial flexibility after a diagnosis. It’s especially valuable if you have a family history of cancer or limited savings.

Source Attribution:
This information was obtained from www.medicare.gov and the American Cancer Society.