Practical issues

Friday 29 January, 2010

Reviewed by: A/P Michael Jefford MBBS, MPH, MHlthsevMt, PhD, MRACMA, FRACP, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Peter Mac; Dr. Carrie Lethborg, MSW, PhD, St. Vincent's Hospital

On this page: Insurance, superannuation and loans | Working after your treatment's over | What if my previous employer treated me unfairly? | Challenges you may face going back to work | What if I can't work? | Support with childcare and home duties

After any serious illness, people may be faced with practical problems. This page describes specific problems and suggests who to contact for help.

Insurance, superannuation and loans

Many cancer survivors say that after they finish treatment they feel they want to get their ‘money matters' in order. This could mean talking with a superannuation fund, wanting to get life insurance or managing your income to provide for yourself or your family.

You many worry that because you've had cancer that you may no longer be eligible for certain financial services, for example, getting a credit card, mortgage or personal loan. You often don't have to give your medical history to get any of these.

Getting new insurance (life, income cover or travel) may be more difficult because you have had cancer. You will need to provide your medical history for many insurance policies. A mortgage is often linked with some kind of insurance so you're likely to have to let them know that you've had cancer.

Many people don't know that they can claim disability benefits from their superannuation or insurance. If your working life is cut short, you probably won't have enough superannuation. Extra disability benefits will help you. This is because your superannuation is designed to last for an ‘average' period of retirement, not longer.

Where can I get help?

The Chronic Illness Alliance can provide free superannuation and insurance advice to people with disabilities.  

You may wish to ask lawyers who have expertise in superannuation and insurance for advice or see a financial counsellor.

To find a lawyer who specialises in this area, call the Law Institute of Victoria Referral Service on (03) 9607 9550.

Working after your treatment is over

Some people continue working during their treatment. But cancer and its treatment can prevent others from going back to their previous type of work. Some people may be able to re-train and take on a different job. This is a big commitment and may take a lot of courage and patience. Others may be physically able to return to their old job but not feel emotionally up to going back straight away.

Some cancer survivors want to take some time out from work after treatment and rethink what they would like to do with their lives. Others are very keen to get back to work as soon as possible. For many, working may represent ‘normality' and is a sign that they are over their cancers. Some people have no choice but to return to work because of income and family needs.

If you had to leave your old job before or during treatment, you may find it hard to get another job now treatment is over. Most employers are supportive of employing someone who has had cancer. But sometimes this is not true and it can come as quite a shock. Everyone is different and reactions will vary. The most important thing is that you feel supported and informed about your choices. The Cancer Council Helpline (13 11 20) can talk to you about returning to work.  

What if my previous employer has treated me unfairly?

Some people are forced to leave their jobs because of a cancer diagnosis or treatment. If you believe you have been unlawfully discriminated against because of a diagnosis of cancer you should seek legal advice straight away.

You can get free initial advice from the Disability Discrimination Legal Service. This service specialises in Disability Discrimination Law.

You can also contact the Equal Opportunity Commission of Victoria or the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (Commonwealth). 

Possible challenges you may face if you do go back to work

If you return to your job, or start a new one, and people are aware that you have had cancer treatment, you may face some challenges.

Co-workers are often great friends and provide strong support. However, some co-workers may not know how to react and be frightened of hurting your feelings, so they may avoid saying anything at all. They may act as though nothing has happened and believe you must be okay because you look well and seem to be able to do your job again. Others may ask you questions that you are not ready to answer. You may feel angry, hurt and frustrated by people's reactions.

The more relaxed and open you are about your cancer and its treatment, the more likely it will be that your co-workers respond to you in a way that feels right for you. If you are having a lot of trouble settling back into your work life, it may help to talk with a counsellor. Some workplaces will have someone on site who you can talk to. If not, call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.

What if I can no longer work?

Not being able to work can be very stressful. You will most likely still need a regular income to pay for bills, the mortgage or rent, and other living expenses.

It's important that you get the support and advice that you need. The Department of Human Services can help with financial and practical matters. For details about disability, sickness and carers payments, call Centrelink on 13 27 17.

Some people find it useful to see financial advisers (you may also hear them called financial planners or consultants). Try your bank or look for an independent financial adviser in the telephone book or on the Internet.

Support with childcare and home duties

You may be eligible for help with childcare costs: call the Family Assistance Office on 13 61 50.

Local councils provide a range of community and in-home services, including foster care for children, meals on wheels, house keepers and respite care. Telephone your council (listed by council in the White Pages).

For more information about practical and financial support, contact your local hospital, community health centre or the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.

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