[Charles]

When you're looking for a new job, I recommend the following approaches to protect yourself from discrimination: First: If you are not asked about your cancer, do not volunteer information about it unless your health would prevent you from doing the job. An employer has the right -- under accepted business practices and most state and federal laws -- to only ask if you can perform the essential duties of the job.

[Charles]

Second: Do not lie on a job or insurance application. If you are hired and your employer later learns that you lied, you may be fired for your dishonesty, and insurance companies may refuse to pay benefits or may cancel your coverage.

[Charles]

Third: Keep the focus on your current ability to do the job. Employers may not ask how often you missed work in past jobs, but they can ask if you can meet the employer's current attendance rules.

[Charles]
 
Fourth: If you have to explain a long period of unemployment during cancer treatment, if possible, explain it in a way that shows your illness is past, and that you are now in good health and expect to remain healthy.

[Charles]

Fifth: Offer your employer a letter from your doctor that explains your current health and ability to work. Be prepared to help the interviewer understand your cancer and why cancer often does not result in death or disability.
 
[Charles]

Sixth: Seek help from a job counselor about resume preparation and job interviewing skills. Practice answers to expected questions such as, "Why did you miss a year of work," or "Why did you leave your last job?" Answer honestly, but stress your ability to do the job and not any past problems resulting from your cancer.

[Charles]

Seventh: Do not ask about health insurance until after you receive a job offer. Then ask to see the benefits package.

[Narrator]

These steps may help you avoid discrimination. If you do face discrimination, however, try reaching an informal solution before leaping into a lawsuit. Follow your employer's system for settling employment issues. If you need some kind of accommodation, such as flexible working hours to make doctor's appointments, suggest several options to your employer. If your employer offers you accommodations, do not turn them down lightly. Additionally, you should do what you can to educate employers and co-workers who might believe that people cannot survive cancer and remain productive workers.

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