Further support
I want to explore other resources and considerations
Dow offers resources and support as you navigate your cancer care journey.
Whether you’re facing a cancer diagnosis or supporting a loved one with cancer, you’re not alone.
Protect your finances and peace of mind
Maximize your financial resources
From doctor visits to treatments to medications, cancer care can be costly. The Dow medical plans provide comprehensive coverage and protect you through out-of-pocket maximums. In addition to the financial protection provided by your medical coverage, you have specific benefits through Dow designed to help you focus on getting better rather than the cost of your care.
Your life insurance through Dow comes with a few extra benefits, including funeral planning and discounts through Dignity Memorial. If you elected employee-paid optional life insurance, you also have access to will preparation and estate resolution services.
Take time away from work when needed
Prioritizing your health and wellbeing is important. If you need to take time away from work to take care of your health or the health of a loved one, you have options including paid time off for your own health needs, as well as paid and unpaid leave options, and vacation time.
Time away also includes up to seven days off (based on individual circumstances) for funeral/bereavement leave in the event you need to attend the funeral of a family member. Read more.
Know your resources at work
When managing a cancer condition, remember that Dow offers a variety of workplace resources to support you throughout your journey, from treatment through recovery. This includes a supportive environment where you can prioritize your personal wellbeing while continuing to contribute to your role in a way that works best for you.
You can explore options like:
- Adjusted work hours to accommodate appointments and manage other aspects of your cancer care.
- Workplace accommodations to adapt your workspace or tasks based on your needs.
- A gradual return-to-work plan to ease back into your role if you need to take an extended time away for your care and recovery.
Flexible work arrangements
Flexible work arrangements provide more freedom to choose how, when, and where you work, while still meeting your job responsibilities. Consider if one might make sense for you.
When you’re ready to return to work
If you’ve taken time away from work to care for your health or the health of a loved one, resources are available through Dow Occupational Health (OH) to support your transition of returning to work. OH staff can also help identify and facilitate requests for work-related accommodations where appropriate. Learn more and contact OH staff.
Be sure to take advantage of the “Returning to Your Workplace” Journey on the Dow Wellbeing Portal to make your return to work a smooth process while managing daily expectations.
Consider caregiver support
Supporting a patient, as a caregiver
As a caregiver, it’s important to balance your needs with those of your loved one. Many of the resources in this guide are available to caregivers as well as patients. For example, you can:
- Take time off from work for appointments.
- Use the support available through the TOOTRiS and Cariloop programs to help find quality, safe and affordable childcare and eldercare, as well as personalized support and resources for caregivers. Keep in mind, you may be eligible for the Childcare Assistance Program.
- Find a support group like the Caregivers at Dow Community.
- Take advantage of the Empowering Self-care for Caregivers journey. Go to the Dow Wellbeing Portal.
- If you’re enrolled in an Aetna medical plan, Teladoc offers convenient caregiver resources – at the same cost as a general telemedicine visit. Visit TeladocHealth.com/Aetna or call (855) 835-2362 (855-Teladoc) to take advantage of Aetna’s caregiver services.
- Consider an app like Calendly to keep track of ongoing appointments.
Remember to take meaningful time to care for yourself: go for a walk, sit down to watch a movie or take time for your favorite hobby.
Create a chemo care package
If you’re looking to support a friend or family member undergoing treatment, a chemo care tote bag can provide a huge source of comfort, relief and relaxation during this uncertain time. Explore ideas for what to include.
Letting caregivers support you, as a patient
As a patient, you may have a community of people—spouses, partners, family members, friends, colleagues—or a single caregiver supporting you. This can be both comforting and overwhelming as you think about how to stay in touch while focusing on your care, or how to ask for help during treatment. There are a number of ways you can involve others in your care and take a few things off your plate.
Checklist for meeting with your doctors and/or caregivers
Discussions with your medical team and caregivers can be overwhelming. Bring a notebook or device to take notes or ask a trusted family member or friend to attend to help you take notes and record new information. It can also help to prepare a list of questions for your doctor in advance.
Explore external resources
The resources below can provide additional helpful information and support.*
- American Cancer Society: Leading organization in conducting and sharing research to fight cancer. American Cancer Society’s Tender Loving Care program offers affordable wigs, hats, scarves and mastectomy products. The Road to Recovery program provides free transportation to and from treatment for people with cancer who do not have a ride or are unable to drive themselves.
- American Society of Clinical Oncologists: Patient support site with information on types of cancer, navigating care, how to cope, research and advocacy and survivorship (asco.org)
- Cancer Care: Provides services for patients and family members, including counselling, support groups, education workshops, publications, financial and co-pay assistance and community programs.
- Livestrong: Program offering support services and community programs for cancer survivors, caregivers and loved ones.
- National Cancer Institute: The nation’s leading cancer research group, offering patients and their loved ones resources and tools for researchers, patients and loved ones.
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network: Global network providing providers and patients with the most up-to-date standards in cancer care.
* This information is for informational purposes and convenience only; Dow is not responsible for the accuracy of information contained in third-party sites and does not recommend or endorse the content provided on the site; information provided is not meant to replace a physician’s medical advice.
Consider how you can help or donate
- American Cancer Society: A nationwide voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer.
- Ronald McDonald House Charities: Creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
- Make-A-Wish Foundation: Helps fulfill the wishes of children with a critical illness between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 years old.
- Livestrong: Supports services and community programs for cancer survivors, caregivers and loved ones.
- Local charities: Do some online research or ask your care provider team which local charities or non-profits support cancer care patients and families in your area.
- Imerman Angels: Personalized, one-on-one connections for cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers. Through a matching process, participants are matched with a Mentor Angel, a cancer survivor or caregiver that has faced the same type of cancer.
Content Steward: Dow North America Benefits | (833) 693-6947 (MYDOWHR)
LIT #318-70652 | January 2025