Financial and Work Related Questions About Prostate Cancer Recovery

Financial and Work Related Questions About Prostate Cancer Treatment

I've been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and the doctor is recommending a prostatectomy. How is that going to affect my ability to work?

Most doctors recommend at least six to eight weeks off from work after a traditional prostatectomy. The time frame for recovery for laparoscopic and/or robotic will probably be a bit shorter. That being said-- literally everyone who attempts to go to work earlier than recommended by their doctor ends up regretting it and are forced to take longer off work to make up for the slowed recovery.

Prostatectomy procedures require a hospital stay of between four and seven days including some time in a step down unit where you will be closely monitored. You will then go home with a foley catheter placed in your urethra which will be removed after about 14 days after surgery. During this time, you will be very sore, and will definitely not be able to work.

I am not having a prostatectomy, I have elected cryosurgery or HIFU. What financial ramifications do you know of for me?

If you have elected to have a non-standard treatment, anything other than a traditional prostatectomy you should be sure to check with your health insurance carrier to make sure they will cover it. It may surprise you how many insurance carriers won't cover some procedures, and you don't want to get stuck with the bill.

I have disability insurance through work. Will this be covered?

Prostate cancer procedures and the doctor mandated recovery period is covered by virtually all disability insurance carriers, so if you have short and/or long term disability coverage, contact your human resources department and get the paperwork going so you can start receiving checks. Read and discuss the fine points of your disability program to make sure that you get paid the maximum you are entitled.

I don't have any leave or disability built up. Will I lose my job?

If you don't have leave or disability, it still possible that you are protected by the FMLA, so you won't lose your job or your health benefits.

What other recommendations do you have for me?

Join a support group. You will meet people who have been through this, and will be able to put you in contact with local resources to help you successfully cope during your time of need.