Hi ,
my husband has medullary thyroid cancer, he started selpacatinip in March, we are currently applying for travel insurance , one of the questions is are you on chemotherapy treatment, Onocology say that don’t class a TKI has chemotherapy, but insurance might, have you come across this question previously? We want to get insurance right . we know how tricky insurance can be if it’s not right. Thank you
Hello Janjamred,
My name is Adele. I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to our online community and thanks for posting your question.
Selpacatinip belongs to a group of targeted drugs which are effective against specific types of cancer cells. This is different to more traditional chemotherapy that are classed as cytotoxic (toxic to cells) and are used to destroy cancer cells.
Being on any type of cancer treatment impacts on travel insurance and it is important that you have the necessary cover when you are travelling abroad.
Every insurance company has different criteria, and many people contact us to discuss this. Many of the companies use general medical screening questions, which may not be suitable for your situation. If this is the case it is important to contact them directly to ensure that they have the correct information. Therefore, if the form you are completing does not have the relevant space for recording the type of treatment your husband is receiving, I would suggest you give them a ring to explain.
On our website we have a specific page on cancer and buying travel insurance, which provides some information you may find useful. Money Helper also has a section on finding a travel insurance provider, when you have a pre-existing medical condition, which you may find helpful to find alternative companies for comparative quotes.
Many people want to travel when they have a cancer diagnosis and we have a specific group for people to discuss travel insurance within the Macmillan Online Community, which you may find helpful.
You may also find it informative to look at our webpage about travel. This covers general information, including what to consider when planning your trip and the possible physical effects of cancer and travelling.
I hope this information is useful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in contact by email, webchat or phone, if you need further information or support.
The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm.
Best wishes, Adele
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
Ref AON/HM
