BUPA response to launch of mycancerdrugs.org.uk

Commenting on the launch of mycancerdrugs.org.uk Fiona Harris, head of personal markets for BUPA Health Insurance said: "When it comes to cancer, finding out what's wrong with you quickly is vital because the sooner you are diagnosed, the better your chances of recovery. The WPA cancer plan provides cover for a list of cancer drugs. But drugs are just one element of cancer care. At BUPA we offer full refund for cancer diagnosis and treatment, irrespective of family history and there are no limits for out-patient cancer treatments.

"We want to provide extensive cover for cancer patients and give them access to high quality cancer care at the same time. In its report about private medical insurance (pmi) cover for cancer, leading cancer information charity Cancerbackup highlighted the fact that BUPA is the only insurer to provide cover for patients at every stage of their cancer.

"BUPA is also the only insurer to have accredited networks of specialist treatment centres for breast, bowel and gynaecological cancers. This means that our members can receive treatment as early as possible at the right place and delivered by an expert specialist team. All of this gives them the best possible chance of recovery. For reassurance and support, members are also able to talk to one of our specialist oncology nurses at any time during their treatment.

"By undertaking rigorous evidence-based evaluation of new treatments, BUPA funds drugs for early stage breast, bowel and lung cancers, like Herceptin, even when such drugs are not available from the NHS or not funded by some of our competitors. In 2005 over 60,000 members benefited from BUPA-covered cancer treatments. BUPA covers all eligible hospital and consultant charges for chemotherapy, chemotherapy drugs, radiotherapy and surgery. BUPA members can also, with the agreement of their consultant, receive certain cancer treatments in the comfort of their own home.

"And complete cover for cancer doesn't have to be expensive. With BUPA's Heartbeat Heart & Cancer scheme, full diagnosis and full cover for cancer treatment is half the price of comprehensive pmi, for example £30.54 a month for a 45 year-old," she said.