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There's one word that can instantly change someone's life and the lives of those who love them: cancer.
It's a diagnosis that affects millions of people globally, touching not just individuals, but entire families and communities. As HR leaders and employers, we have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to support our team members through this challenging journey.
That’s why at Transcarent, we're here for our Members every step of the way through cancer. We've recently teamed up with Spring Health to bring top-notch mental health support right into our platform.
Why? We believe people deserve a community of care that truly understands what they’re going through and offers the very best support during what might be the most difficult period of their lives.
The need for comprehensive support
After spending more than 25 years in human resources, including my current role as Chief People Officer at Transcarent, I've seen firsthand how cancer impacts our workforce. I also understand this issue on a deeply personal level. Both of my parents passed away from cancer in recent years.
Something I took away from those experiences is that every cancer journey is unique, and transformative. The complexity of decisions—from treatment options to finding caregiver support—can be overwhelming.
It’s difficult to know what the correct course of action should be in the middle of this complexity. What treatment regime should you follow? As a caregiver, how do you get support for your own mental health while holding up the person going through treatment? Is it possible to balance work and treatment or caregiving?
The whole person shows up at work
Gone are the days when we understood our "work selves" and "real lives" as separate. The past few years have highlighted a simple but profound truth: we bring our whole selves to work.
As HR leaders, we have the privilege and responsibility to support all aspects of our employees' lives, including their most vulnerable moments.
I’ve had employees share cancer diagnoses and fertility challenges with me, needing to understand their benefits before talking to their families. This level of trust is a gift, and we must be prepared to honor it.
A holistic approach to cancer support
When we talk about cancer care, there’s more to it than scans and treatments. Care is also about supporting mental health and lifting up the unsung heroes—caregivers. Yet mental health often takes a backseat.
Globally, depression among those with cancer is estimated to be 27%. Other research suggests that 35-40% of people with cancer have a diagnosable mental health challenge affecting their quality of life.
The ups and downs take a toll on mental health
Cancer can be the most terrible emotional roller coaster, parked directly in the middle of a family's life.
When my dad was living with cancer, there were times when we thought he’d be okay and that we’d have years left with him. And that would change, week to week, day to day, before he passed. His experience was completely different from my mum’s, who had cancer and dementia. One thing both experiences had in common is that the mental health of our family and support system was deeply challenged.
No employee should have to choose between treating their body or mind—both are essential for healing, which is why holistic support is so necessary.
In the sections that follow, we'll explore specific ways to implement a holistic support system, ensuring that no employee faces cancer alone.
Comprehensive support throughout the cancer journey
So, what might comprehensive support look like?
At Transcarent, we support people through every phase of their cancer journey, from screening through initial diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. When a Member first reaches out, we discuss their diagnosis, staging, and treatment options. Our Oncology Nurse Navigators provide education, expertise, and, most importantly, compassionate support.
I spoke with Nicole Reimer, Transcarent’s Director of the Oncology Nurse Navigator program for this blog. She’s been an Oncology Nurse for over 30 years and shared an insightful example of how we provide support for employees:
"Sometimes our Members want to speak with their Oncology Nurse Navigator every day for support, especially those facing challenges as caregivers. This is what we’re here for—to connect with and educate people so they feel confident in taking the next step.”
Addressing mental health: a key component of cancer care
We begin each new Member intake by explaining the NCCN distress thermometer, which assesses the person’s current state and identifies specific sources of distress, whether financial difficulties, fear, or other factors. Understanding the root causes of anguish is essential to addressing it effectively.
For people undergoing cancer treatment and their caregivers, we always ask:
- How are you coping with this?
- What is your support system?
- What helps make it better?
- What specific things do you need help with?
Based on their responses, we create a personalized plan that may consist of comprehensive mental health support, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). We can also connect them with mental health experts who can provide guidance, a listening ear, and evidence-based coping strategies.
Taking care of the caregivers
It's highly likely that employees within your organization work full-time, care for a family member with cancer, raise children, and/or support other dependents.
Caregivers of people with cancer are often overlooked when it comes to mental health support. While the focus naturally centers on the person with cancer, it's crucial to remember that caregivers need support too—not just for their own well-being, but to be better equipped to care for their loved ones.
As Nicole pointed out, "Taking care of the caregiver is not selfish. In order for someone to be the most effective caregiver, they have to take care of themselves."
The need for caregiver support is significant. A recent meta-analysis showed that about 42% of for cancer caregivers experience depression. This statistic underscores the importance of extending workplace support to this often-overlooked group.
Interestingly, Nicole has observed a shift in who's reaching out for help: "Every day, I’m speaking to caregivers who are so grateful to have this resource." This trend highlights the growing awareness of caregiver needs and the importance of addressing them.
The phrase "you cannot pour from an empty cup" may be overused, but it's profoundly true in this context. When I think about my own experiences as a caretaker, I imagine a pressure valve: without proper mental health support and self-care, the stress, anxiety, and depression of caregiving can build up and cause harm. There needs to be a healthy form of release.
What can employers do?
Normalizing asking for help and allowing people space to care for themselves at work can make a world of difference. As I experienced during my parents' illness, the humanity and support of team members can be invaluable during difficult times. Nicole pointed out, “My conversations with people illustrate that individual managers have a bigger impact than employers on the lives of employees with cancer."
Often, support can be as simple as managers listening, being engaged, and asking, "How can I support you and the people you love right now?"
Here are other concrete steps organizations can take:
- Ensure employees understand the benefits available concerning cancer care.
- Offer a dedicated cancer care solution.
- Offer comprehensive mental health support.
- Provide schedule flexibility for both those undergoing treatment and caregivers.
- Promote a supportive culture that openly discusses mental health.
- Make a public commitment to supporting employees with actions like signing the Working with Cancer pledge.
- Direct employees toward resource groups, mentorship, and survivorship support networks.
Returning to work after treatment
The need for support doesn't end when treatment is over. Returning to work after cancer treatment brings its own set of challenges, particularly regarding mental health. It's not as simple as "You're better, so get back to work." Reentry can be challenging and non-linear, which is both normal and okay.
The key is to give employees agency over their return whenever possible. Ask questions like, "How do you want to handle reentry? What do you want me to tell your team members about your return to work?"
Employees may need ongoing support, including:
- Gradual return to full-time work
- Continued scheduling flexibility
- Mental health support
- Access to survivorship programs
- Regular check-ins with their manager and HR leader
This level of support is particularly crucial in the first year after treatment.
Extending compassionate care
What I want HR and benefits leaders to remember is that cancer's impact extends beyond the person diagnosed. Your caregiving employees are carrying heavy burdens. By embracing both groups with strong, thoughtful support systems, you're not only helping individuals—you’re building a workplace where empathy and resilience can thrive.
Offering compassionate, comprehensive cancer care isn't just the right thing to do—it's also an investment in your most valuable asset: your people. When you support your team through life's toughest challenges, they'll go above and beyond for you in return.
With childhood anxiety on the rise, your organization can be a lifeline for working caregivers. Learn how to create a work environment that helps employees manage challenges at home while feeling supported at work.
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