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You just received your diagnosis

Here is where you should begin. A straightforward checklist for the practical decisions that come rapidly—while everything else feels like a blur.

There is no required order here. Start wherever feels most urgent, skip what doesn't apply yet, and return when you have the bandwidth. You don't have to do everything at once.

Where to begin

  • Find and review your employee handbook, especially the sections on benefits related to medical leave, sick time, and disability.
  • Determine if your employer is covered by FMLA (typically for organizations with 50+ employees—provisions may apply—and for any government or school) and whether you have worked there long enough to qualify (usually 12 months / 1,250 hours).
  • Decide who needs to know and how much information you wish to share. You are not required to disclose your diagnosis to request leave or accommodations.
  • Note any upcoming deadlines you need to meet, so you can arrange coverage before treatment begins.

Your Paycheck

  • Check if you have short-term disability coverage (through your employer or a private policy) and how to file a claim.
  • Find out how much paid time off, vacation, and sick days you have accrued.
  • Ask Human Resources whether leave is paid, unpaid, or a combination, so there are no surprises regarding your income.
  • If finances are tight, start the disability claim process early—approval times can be lengthy.

Your Insurance

  • Verify your health plan is active and note your deductible and out-of-pocket limit for the year.
  • Confirm whether your treatment team is in-network before scheduling multiple appointments.
  • Learn about COBRA and marketplace options, along with their deadlines, in case of a job loss.
  • Mark your open-enrollment period, as changing plans mid-treatment usually requires a qualifying event.

Your Finances

  • List your fixed monthly expenses to understand your baseline if income decreases.
  • Contact each provider's billing office to ask about payment plans and financial aid programs; most medical facilities offer them.
  • Explore copay assistance and nonprofit grants for treatment-related costs.
  • Keep all receipts related to medical and insurance expenses, as many are tax-deductible.

Your Medical Paper Trail

  • Create one folder, physical or digital, for all related documents: diagnosis notes, medical bills, insurance letters, and leave paperwork.
  • Request written copies of your diagnosis and treatment plan, or access them through an online portal, as they will be needed for leave and disability forms.
  • Record the names and direct contact information for Human Resources, benefits administrators, and each provider's billing office.
  • Save any workplace correspondence regarding your leave or accommodations.
A Gentle Reminder

You are dealing with a lot right now. This list is a tool, not a test.

Handling even one item on it is progress, and asking for help—from HR, a social worker, a patient navigator, or someone you trust—is a strength, not a burden.
Access4BC offers HR-informed, plain-language guidance. It is not legal or financial advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a licensed professional.
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