Best Health Insurance Plans for Cancer Patients in UAE

When choosing  a health insurance plan in UAE, cancer coverage is one of the key considerations. The cost of cancer treatment can be prohibitive without the right insurance, so it's crucial to choose a plan that offers extensive coverage for this critical illness.

The guide will provide you with more information on the best health insurance plans for cancer patients across the UAE, making sure you make an informed choice for your healthcare needs.   

Does Health Insurance Provide Coverage to Cancer Patients?

In the UAE, both public and private health insurance generally include cancer care in their benefits. The diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for cancer are generally covered, although the extent of coverage depends on the policy, insurer and emirate.

In Dubai, the Dubai Health Insurance Law ensures that all residents have access to essential health services. This includes cancer treatment as well. For residents under the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP), cancer diagnosis and treatment are covered. However, certain advanced therapies may require special approval.

In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health (DoH) mandates that all insurance plans provide cancer treatment coverage as part of their basic healthcare package.

For federal government employees and citizens, the Thiqa program offers full coverage for cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment through an extensive network of hospitals.

The BASMAH Initiative – A Special Program for Cancer Care in Dubai

The BASMAH (Breast, Colon, and Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment Initiative) is a first-of-its-kind program launched by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

Key Points About BASMAH

1. Provides full coverage for screening and treatment of breast, colon, and cervical cancer for all Dubai residents with a DHA health insurance policy
2. Screening includes mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears
3. If cancer is detected during screening, patients are given comprehensive treatment coverage without extra premiums or exclusions
4. The aim is to improve early detection rates, reduce late-stage diagnoses, and ensure equal access to life-saving treatment

BASMAH removes the financial barrier for early diagnosis and treatment, which is a common challenge for cancer patients.

Summary Table of Cancer Insurance in the UAE

Private Health Insurance and Cancer Care in the UAE

In addition to government-mandated coverage, many private health insurers in the UAE offer comprehensive benefits for cancer diagnosis and treatment. The extent of coverage varies between providers and plan types, but most reputable insurers follow international best practices in oncology care.

Key Points from Major Insurers 

1. GIG Gulf: GIG Gulf offers cancer care as part of most comprehensive plans. The policies include coverage for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and targeted drug therapies. Some plans also cover genetic testing and palliative care. Higher-tier plans have fewer limits on advanced treatments.
2. Bupa Global: It is known for extensive global cancer coverage, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, advanced biological and targeted therapies, and follow-up scans. Bupa emphasises "as long as you need it" coverage for eligible cancer care.
3. Cigna: Cigna includes full coverage for cancer treatments in most major plans, with access to a wide hospital network and second medical opinion services. Its higher-end plans cover cutting-edge treatments and overseas care if not available locally.
4. Daman: One of UAE’s largest health insurers, it covers cancer treatment in all Enhanced Plans and for nationals under the Thiqa program. Benefits include diagnostic scans, inpatient and outpatient treatment and post-treatment rehabilitation.

The BASMAH initiative focuses on breast, colon, and cervical cancer screening and treatment for Dubai residents with DHA plans. Private insurers, meanwhile, expand coverage to most cancer types. Many also provide:

1. Faster access to specialist consultations and diagnostic tests
2. International treatment options for cases requiring care abroad
3. Support services such as dedicated cancer care managers, counselling, and nutritional support

Types of Cancer Covered in Health Insurance

The BASMAH initiative in Dubai provides coverage for breast cancer, colorectal cancer and cervical cancer. Additionally, most comprehensive health insurance plans in the UAE cover a wide range of cancers - 

1. Lung Cancer
2. Liver Cancer
3. Prostate Cancer
4. Blood Cancers (like Leukaemia)

Coverage Provided Under Health Insurance Plans for Cancer Treatment

Health insurance plans in the UAE offer varying degrees of coverage for cancer treatment, including screenings, diagnostic investigations, and treatments. Given below is an overview of what different health insurance plans generally cover for cancer treatment:

Screening and Early Detection

Early detection is crucial for effective cancer treatment. Health insurance plans in the UAE often cover:

1. Cancer Screenings: Regular screenings for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers are covered under the BASMAH initiative in Dubai. These screenings are included in both basic and comprehensive plans. Comprehensive health insurance plans in Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates also include this coverage. 
2. Diagnostic Tests: Once cancer is suspected, insurance plans cover various diagnostic tests such as biopsies, imaging tests (MRI, CT scans), and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Coverage

Cancer treatment involves multiple stages, each of which can be expensive. Health insurance plans in the UAE generally cover the following - 

1. Chemotherapy: Coverage includes the cost of drugs, administration of chemotherapy sessions, and any necessary supportive medications.
2. Radiation Therapy: Costs associated with radiation treatments are covered, including the use of advanced radiation techniques.
3. Surgery: Surgical procedures to remove cancerous tissues or tumours are covered. This also includes pre-operative and post-operative care.
4. Hospitalisation: Coverage for inpatient care includes room charges, consultations, medications, and other hospital services.
5. Outpatient Services: Many plans cover outpatient treatments, consultations with oncologists, and follow-up visits.

Additional Benefits in Health Insurance Plans for Cancer Coverage 

Health insurance plans for cancer patients often include several additional benefits - 

1. Ambulance Services: Free ambulance services to make sure that patients can reach treatment facilities promptly.
2. Worldwide Coverage: Some plans offer worldwide coverage. This coverage allows policyholders to seek treatment at international facilities within the insurer’s network.
3. Alternative Treatments: Coverage for alternative therapies such as acupuncture or naturopathy may be included within specified limits.

Key Considerations While Opting For a Health Insurance Plan with Cancer Coverage

When selecting  a health insurance plan for cancer treatment, consider the following - 

1. Waiting Periods: Check the waiting periods before coverage begins, usually around 60 days.
2. Coverage Limits: Understand the annual coverage limits and whether the plan offers unlimited coverage for specific cancers.
3. Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions in the policy, such as certain types of cancer or stages of the disease.
4. Claims Process: Choose the insurer that provides a straightforward claim process and has a good settlement ratio to avoid hassles during treatment.

Exclusions in Cancer Coverage in Health Insurance Plans

As we have seen so far, health insurance plans offer extensive coverage for cancer treatment. However, to avoid unexpected out of pocket expenses, you must be aware of the general exclusions of the plans — 

1. Pre-Existing Conditions
   • Undeclared Pre-Existing Conditions: Many health insurance policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions if they were not disclosed at the time of policy purchase. This can include pre-existing cancers or related conditions.
   • Waiting Periods: Even if pre-existing conditions are declared, they often come with waiting periods before coverage begins.
2. Cosmetic and Elective Procedures
   • Procedures deemed elective or cosmetic, such as reconstructive surgeries post-cancer are typically not covered.
      

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