Todd Harper, CEO at Cancer Council Victoria, shared on LinkedIn:
“The new Counting the Cost of Cancer: Legal and Financial Impacts on Victorians report, launched today by the McCabe Centre for Law and Cancer at Cancer Council Victoria, provides the latest evidence that legal and financial challenges are a common part of the cancer experience.
At a time when people should be focused on treatment and recovery, concerningly every person affected by cancer surveyed incurred out-of-pocket costs related to their cancer or caring experience, and of those that faced financial hardship, over 95% experienced distress.
Many were also navigating issues with their workplace, insurance claims, superannuation, and government support systems.
The report findings reflect concerns we have been hearing for years, demonstrating that the challenges remain widespread, with demand continuing to grow for our Cancer Support and Legal Support Program.
With more Victorians living with and beyond cancer, we need updated laws and systems that reflect the realities of long-term illness and caring responsibilities.
The report calls for reforms to insurance and superannuation, updated social security supports, alongside better integration of early legal and financial support in healthcare settings for people affected by cancer, including carers.
This research provides clear evidence that more must be done to ensure people affected by cancer receive the support they need, when they need it most.
Thanks to the Victorian Legal Services Board Grants Program for funding this project.
If you are currently navigating a cancer experience, contact Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 information and support line to talk with trained professionals, who can also assist with information and referral to our financial counselling or legal support programs.
Also see latest resources, Cancer Care and Your Rights.”
You can also read:
The Hidden Burden of Cancer Hospitalization
