5 strategies benefit managers can take to support cancer survivors

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, individuals often turn to family, friends, and caregivers for support. But what about their employers? Many worry about job security when they have cancer, but employers can also be a valuable part of their support network.

Cancer survivors face long-term physical and psychological challenges even after treatments conclude and they're declared cancer-free. Employers can help these individuals thrive both personally and professionally by fostering a supportive environment, offering comprehensive benefits, promoting a sense of normalcy, and tailoring specific programs to meet their needs. This approach not only enhances the well-being of survivors, but also strengthens loyalty and productivity, building a positive workplace culture for everyone.

1 out of every 20 employees is a cancer survivor 
What is a cancer survivor? They include individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer, those who are living with cancer, and those who may remain cancer-free through the rest of their lives. The National Cancer Institute's (NCI) latest statistics estimate that there are over 18 million cancer survivors in the U.S., which accounts for about 5.4% of the population and an estimated 1 in 20 working adults.  

The number of people living with cancer is projected to grow to over 26 million by 2040, as advances in early detection and new, targeted treatments achieve better outcomes and extend lives. The NCI noted that about 70% of current cancer survivors have lived more than five years since diagnosis, and nearly half have lived 10 or more years. For employers, this means an increasing number of cancer survivors in the workforce. 

The chance for a longer lifespan offers hope  for those impacted by cancer. Yet even those declared clear of cancer are not truly free from the long-term physical challenges and roller coaster of emotions related to their cancer journey. Many survivors are likely to develop anxiety, depression or survivor guilt. They may constantly worry about recurrence or the financial impact the disease has had on their families. The physical toll of their treatments, such as pain, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, fertility issues, and a greater risk of developing secondary cancers, can also remain long after treatments are complete. The combination of these can affect their quality of life and require continued monitoring and support. 

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The important role of employers in supporting survivors
Despite cancer accounting for the largest proportion of healthcare expenses, according to the Business Group on Health, most employers want to offer robust support systems to cancer survivors in their workforce. But, like cancer treatments themselves, there is no one-size-fits all approach that employers can rely on. 

Generally, cancer survivors say they want their employers to understand what they're going through at every stage of the journey, along with receiving encouragement and assistance from their bosses and colleagues. Most importantly, they say, they want to maintain a sense of normalcy. Connecting with their professional life can give them just that, providing a sense of purpose, which can aid in recovery.

Many employees, if able, may prefer to continue working during treatment – even if it requires a more flexible schedule or additional time off. Three-quarters of those who worked while being treated for cancer said it helped them cope with the disease, while more than two-thirds of survivors said that working helped their recovery, according to research from the non-profit Cancer and Careers. The reason? Continuing to work helped ease some of their financial concerns, but more importantly, 45% of those surveyed said that work provided a sense of purpose and 40% expressed their desire for their life to feel as normal as possible. 

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Many employers already provide cancer coverage as part of comprehensive healthcare benefits. But there are additional ways to help employees throughout their cancer journey. Consider these five approaches:

1. Promote awareness of screenings and access to the right specialists
Make sure benefits cover basic regular screenings, like for breast, prostate and colon cancer. Some companies even offer enhanced benefits that ensure cancer survivors have access to the most appropriate care and expertise, no matter where they reside, by connecting patients and their local doctors with specialists who can advise on clinical trials, new targeted treatments, and ensure the most optimal treatment path. 

2.  Explore flexible work schedules 
Depending on the business, this could include enabling remote work or adjusting schedules to accommodate medical appointments or recovery time, which helps survivors maintain their sense of purpose and professional roles.

3. Open lines of communication
Human resources and managers should cultivate an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing any challenges they face and how best to support these needs.

4. Highlight available employee assistance programs (EAPs) and wellness programs 
Such programs can provide access to counseling and support services for emotional and psychological well-being, as well as promoting physical health through fitness classes, stress management and nutrition counseling.

5. Share information on alternative financial support and resources 
Beyond competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, employers may offer health savings accounts and financial planning resources that can help alleviate worries about money that often accompany major health concerns, like cancer.

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Employers benefit too
Being a cancer survivor is a complex human journey. That's why it's critical to have unwavering support at every step. Employers can have a truly profound and lasting impact on the lives of these employees by fostering a supportive work environment, offering comprehensive benefits, promoting a sense of normalcy, and tailoring support programs to meet their unique needs.

These initiatives are more important than employers may realize. About 80% of cancer survivors, and an even larger percentage of their caregivers, would feel more loyal to employers who provide extensive support, according to a recent study.

To address a growing workforce impacted by cancer, employers must consider taking proactive steps to ensure that all cancer survivors have the resources and support they need. These simple steps can ensure cancer survivors continue to thrive both personally and professionally. In return, employers have an opportunity to cultivate an even more dedicated, resilient and productive workforce.