My sister just passed away last month. She was 41. Writing this entry is my way of coping. She battled with Breast Cancer since 2019. Here are valuable lessons/practical advise that I learned/picked up during the entire journey:
1. It is very important to have health insurance by age 35
My sister is single and have no children. She got her insurance at age 35. She specifically told her agent to put a Critical Illness Rider to her plan. She was able to claim from her insurance to pay for her Chemotherapy sessions. Though it was not enough, it was better than having none at all.
If your finances will allow, it would be best to get covered for Critical Illnesses at least 3-5M. Sad to say, the healthcare system in our country is very bad. There is nobody else to count on but yourself.
2. Oncologists / Doctors
It is best to seek for a second opinion. Even a third, fourth or fifth opinion will not hurt. Not all doctors are created equal.
Seek for a doctor who shows compassion and will really look out for you. Not doctors who will just make money out of you. You don't necessarily find them in the prominent hospitals.
3. PWD Card
Aside from your Philhealth coverage, A PWD Card is the only help that you will get out of the Philippine Government. This will give you a 20% discount on all your medication and treatment.
4. Chemo and Cancer Drugs
Sometimes it comes out cheaper when you purchase them directly from the Pharma manufacturer/Medical Representive/direct importer such as Globo Asiatico Enterprises, Inc.
5. Know your rights as an employee
Research about your rights as an employee. Since the HR Manager in her company was not supportive, she had to fight for her own rights. She learned about Republic Act 9710: Magna Carta of Women through our cousin.
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