VFIS Responds to State L-H Requirements for Firefighters

PRODUCT: Critical illness coverage/cancer coverage

COMPANY: Glatfelter Insurance Group and VFIS

BEST RATING: A+ (Superior)

AVAILABILITY: Coverage is available through independent agents and brokers.

FOCUS: Firefighters face serious physical work hazards, but what are the potential long-term health issues that emergency responders experience as a result of these work-related exposures?

Not only do fires carry dangerous soot and smoke from toxic materials, but exhaust fumes from diesel fire engines also present hazards, and a firefighter’s protective gear raises body temperatures—making it easier for their pores to absorb life-threatening chemicals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), firefighters show higher rates of certain types of cancer than the general population. In 2015, the CDC released results from a 60-year study on cancer risk conducted among 30,000 firefighters in this country. The study showed that, compared with the general population, the average firefighter is at a higher risk for certain kinds of cancer—mainly oral, digestive, respiratory, genital and urinary cancers.

According to Robert Daniels, the principal investigator on the project and a research epidemiologist at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the study also found that firefighters who were exposed to more fires than their peers experienced higher rates of lung cancer and leukemia.

Because firefighters are at a higher risk, states are increasingly recognizing the need for proper and effective insurance coverage to aid emergency responders who receive a cancer diagnosis. New state laws require statutory cancer coverage for these vital community members.

VFIS, a large provider of insurance, education and consulting for emergency service organizations, responds to these changes with a new, customized insurance program for career and volunteer firefighters to meet these state requirements. The coverage is provided on a 24-hour on- and off-duty basis and offers firefighters a lump-sum benefit tailored to the severity of their cancer with the availability of monthly disability income.

“For many in the firefighting community, the stakes have never been higher. We understand what’s at risk and have developed products with the best interest of the firefighter in mind,” explains Keith Brandstedter, president of VFIS specialty benefits. “This new cancer coverage will allow firefighters to focus on what is truly important: protecting their families while recovering from their diagnosis.”

UNDERWRITING: With this coverage, emergency service personnel can receive a lump-sum cash benefit when diagnosed with cancer. Coverage details are tailored to meet state laws, and underwriting details vary pending each state’s statutory cancer coverage requirements. This policy is underwritten by ACE American Insurance Company and is written on a critical illness policy.

MINIMUM PREMIUM: $500.

TARGET: Employer and volunteer emergency service organizations.

COVERAGE TERRITORY: All U.S. states, excluding HI, ID, KS, NH, SD, VT and WA.

CONTACT: Keith Brandstedter, president of VFIS specialty benefits; VFIS, 183 Leader Heights Road, P.O. Box 2726, York, PA 17405; 717-741-0911.

Ronimarie Acord is an IA contributor.