Know Health
Know Cigna !

Unusual Discharge Leads to Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

Close to 50 years old, the Lau couple were clients of Cigna VHIS Series - Flexi Plan. Mr. Lau had previously consulted a Care Manager regarding treatment for kidney stones. Shortly thereafter, he urgently sought the Care Manager's help again, this time concerning his wife's health issues. Mrs. Lau had been experiencing significant abnormal discharge, which caused her discomfort and distress. The Care Manager arranged for her to see a gynecologist, and an ultrasound examination initially revealed a large tumor in her uterus. She was admitted the following day for a hysteroscopic examination and biopsies, which unfortunately confirmed the diagnosis of cervical cancer.

Cancer Cells Have Spread: Care Manager Provides Second Opinion

The couple was worried about the tumor's progression and wanted to undergo a hysterectomy as soon as possible to remove it completely. However, subsequent imaging revealed that Mrs. Lau's cancer cells had already spread. They felt overwhelmed and helpless. The Care Manager recommended that Mrs. Lau consult an oncologist within the network to explore other treatment options and provided emotional support to help reduce their anxiety. Mrs. Lau later sought help from an oncologist outside the network and underwent chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Throughout this time, the Care Manager maintained regular contact with the couple to address their situation and needs, manage any treatment side effects, and provide information about community cancer support resources. The Care Manager also suggested that Mrs. Lau could wait for an appointment at a public hospital's oncology clinic for additional monitoring and follow-up.

Unknown Pre-existing Conditions

The total cost of Mrs. Lau's cancer treatment amounted to HKD 350,000, and the approval for reimbursement was still pending investigation and follow-up. Mrs. Lau reflected that had she purchased health insurance earlier, it could have strengthened her financial protection after her diagnosis, alleviating the burden on her life and finances. She shared her experience with friends, urging them to plan for the future.

According to Cigna VHIS Series – Flexi Plan (Superior) plan, coverage for unknown pre-existing conditions begins from the first day of the policy's effective date, depending on the approval outcome. Under the standard plan, if a policyholder files a claim for an unknown pre-existing condition during the waiting period, partial coverage may apply. For instance, during the first three policy years, the common partial coverage rates for unknown pre-existing conditions are 0%, 25%, and 50%. By the fourth policy year, policyholders are generally eligible for full coverage.

Cervical Cancer: The 7th Most Common Cancer Among Women in Hong Kong.

According to the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, cervical cancer is the seventh most common cancer among women in Hong Kong, with 556 new cases reported in 2020, translating to approximately 13.7 cases per 100,000 women. The latest statistics show that in 2021, 178 women died from cervical cancer. High-risk factors for developing cervical cancer include previous infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), frequent sexual activity, early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, previous sexually transmitted infections, and smoking. Women experiencing the following symptoms should seek medical attention promptly for further gynecological examination:

• Spotting or light bleeding between periods or after menstruation

• Prolonged periods with heavier bleeding

• Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or pelvic examinations

• Increased vaginal discharge

• Pain during intercourse

• Bleeding after menopause

• Unexplained persistent pelvic pain or back pain

Care Manager Provides Thoughtful Services

Currently, clients under individual or group policies of Cigna Healthcare can access specialized concierge medical services from the onset of treatment, which includes a dedicated Care Manager who will provide follow up care. Services include:

• Assistance with health issues by contacting Cigna Healthcare customer service, who can refer clients to a registered nurse from Care Manager team for professional medical advice.

• Understanding and analyzing clients' health conditions and providing options for doctors within the medical network.

• Coordinating hospitalization and following up on treatment arrangements, including post-operative visits if necessary.

• Providing information to improve health and personally following up on post-discharge rehabilitation needs, such as arranging physical therapy, nutritional guidance, or meal delivery services.

• Personalized referral services, such as local transport to and from the hospital, caregiver arrangements, telemedicine consultations, medication delivery, and home modification services.

• Emotional support for clients and their families.

• Arranging "Cigna at Home" medical services, such as in-home chemotherapy for clients with cancer, reducing travel burdens and infection risks.

Early selection of suitable health insurance, including coverage for specialized outpatient services and hospitalization, can help manage unexpected health issues and provide future security. Cigna VHIS Series - Flexi Plan offers annual premium tax deductions of up to HKD 8,000 per insured person, along with various coverage options to meet your budgeting needs. Know more 。