The cancer patient at work

The person who has been treated for cancer may have unique problems resuming employment or starting a new job. Cancer represents a spectrum of diseases, and posttreatment impairments may vary from none, in the majority of cases, to major functional disability. Employers understandably have difficulty recognizing the variability that exists, both in terms of functional capacity and prognosis, and they are often unaware of the improved prognosis for many cancers. Today, many patients receive adjuvant chemotherapy or prolonged intermittent treatment and need to adjust their work schedule to allow for this. Some people need job training or vocational counseling; in many states, vocational rehabilitation agencies now have an increased interest in providing services to cancer patients. Discrimination against the cancer patient has been demonstrated; the major problems are in the area of hiring practices. Efforts need to be continued to educate employers and the public and to ensure that the rights of the cancer patient are recognized. We may, however, do our patients a disservice if we overemphasize potential problems to a degree that increases patient fear and insecurity in regard to employment. Instead, we as physicians may be able to help prevent problems by more effective communication with employers on behalf of our patients, as well as by direct patient counseling. The insurance problems of cancer patients, particularly those relating to health insurance, do require major attention. The potential productivity, as well as the quality of life, of the cancer patient are jeopardized when he or she feels unable to change jobs because of fear of loss of insurance coverage. The relatively high number of reported cancellations and changes in insurance benefits that have been reported by cancer patients also represents an area of concern, since some of these appear medically unjustified. The physician's opinion and input may be of importance in preventing or solving individual insurance problems. The physician can also help the cancer patient who has employment problems by providing information about available resources. The above-mentioned employment booklet (#4585-PS), available from the ACS, may be useful and contains information about legal resources. Referral to a vocational rehabilitation agency may be indicated. The best medicine of all may be a positive and optimistic attitude toward the patient's participation in the work force.