Cancer & Finances (Part 2): Walking the Road to Recovery — With Courage and Clarity

Hearing the word "cancer" can be incredibly overwhelming. Beyond the emotional, physical, and mental toll, there's a significant financial dimension that often gets overlooked. I want to share some vital insights to help you navigate these challenging times. This is especially relevant in cases where early detection has allowed for a positive prognosis and a focus on recovery.

Understanding the Financial Impact:

Cancer treatment can be incredibly expensive.

Components of Cancer Treatment Costs in Singapore

The overall cost includes diagnostic tests, primary treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and specialized therapies.

1. Diagnostic Test Costs

The initial phase of diagnosis is essential for confirming cancer and guiding treatment.

Diagnostic Test	Estimated Cost (Starting From)
CT scan	From S$500
PET scan	From S$2,000
MRI	Often from S$1,000+

Biopsy costs, which are required for a definitive diagnosis, show a stark difference between private and subsidized public care (MOH, 2025 data):

Cancer Type	Private Hospital	Public (Subsidised)
Breast	S$5,898	S$727
Lung	S$6,822	S$605

2. Surgery Costs

Surgery is a common treatment, especially in early stages. The cost is highly sensitive to the choice of hospital and room class (A, B1, B2, or C).

For example, a colorectal cancer surgery in a private hospital is estimated at S$55,865, while the same procedure in a subsidized public ward (Ward C) is estimated at S$6,288. Similarly, breast cancer surgery may cost more than S$31,000 in private hospitals, but around S$3,058 in a subsidised public ward.

3. Chemotherapy Costs

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to destroy or slow cancer cells. Costs vary based on the drug regimen, number of cycles, cancer type, and setting.

Based on MOH data for chemotherapy delivered in a day surgery setting, the average cost in a private facility is S$12,766, while the cost in a public (subsidised) facility is S$485.

4. Radiotherapy and Other Treatments

• Radiotherapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, is estimated to cost S$25,000 to S$30,000 for a full course.

• Other newer and more specialized treatments that contribute to the annual cost include Immunotherapy, Hormonal therapy, and Targeted or laser therapy. These treatments are generally more expensive and may not be fully covered by subsidies or insurance.

Even with health insurance, you can face substantial out-of-pocket costs. (Please refer to the mind map below for understanding)

Other expenses include the following:

• Lost Income: Treatment and recovery can lead to reduced work hours or even temporary or permanent inability to work, impacting your income.

• Increased Living Expenses: Additional expenses can include transportation costs for appointments, special dietary needs, or modifications to your home.

• Other financial implication: Your loved ones may want take leave to be present during the cancer treatment, be able to help out and also offer moral support.

Proactive Financial Strategies for Recovery:

If you or a loved one are facing a cancer diagnosis, or even if you want to prepare proactively, here are key financial strategies to implement:

1. Review Your Medical Coverage: Understand your health insurance plan thoroughly. Know your co-pays, deductibles, and what is covered, and not covered, for cancer treatment. Obtain pre-authorizations for procedures and inquire about appealing denied claims.

2. Establish an Emergency Fund: Aim for 3-6 months of living expenses in an easily accessible, liquid savings account. This can significantly reduce stress and cushion the financial blow.

3. Explore Disability & Life Insurance: Review the benefits you would be entitled to from your disability and life insurance policies.

4. Manage Debt: If possible, reduce or consolidate any high-interest debt that will be more difficult to pay off while out of work.

5. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a financial planner who can specifically help you address financial planning decisions and navigate estate planning.

Moving Forward with Resilience & Financial Planning

Even with a positive prognosis there's still a significant amount of stress that comes with the treatment. Regular follow-up appointments, psychological support and keeping your social life active would be key parts of the recovery along with a structured financial recovery plan in line with the information shared above to ease the impact of having cancer. Don't be afraid to ask for help, whether from family, friends, professionals, or other aid groups that have faced cancer. It is extremely easy to be overwhelmed with information, so make the time to talk to professionals at an early stage. Don’t navigate this alone — reach out to me here, and let’s work through your next steps together!

Disclaimer: This post is for general information only — not financial advice. Everyone’s story and situation are unique, please consult a qualified professional for personal guidance.