#United States #New York #Best Companies #Employee Support #Cancer and Careers

Introduction

On April 7, 2026, Cancer and Careers (CAC) unveiled its inaugural index, the Best Companies for Working with Cancer. This groundbreaking initiative recognizes employers who excel in providing essential support to employees affected by cancer. Given the increasing number of cancer diagnoses, this index serves as a vital resource for companies aiming to enrich their workplace environments for workers navigating this challenging predicament.

Overview of the Index

The Best Companies for Working with Cancer Index is the first of its kind, evaluating workplace benefits, policies, culture, and resources across 152 workplace elements. It involves an assessment along 13 dimensions, which is conducted against weighted priorities determined by employees facing cancer. Rebecca Nellis, Executive Director of CAC, underscored the significance of this index, stating it serves as a blueprint for companies to balance employee needs and business realities effectively.

Recognized Companies

Seventeen companies have been acknowledged for their exemplary practices. These include:

• - AbbVie
• - Best Buy
• - Blood Cancer United
• - Google
• - Haymarket Media Group
• - L'Oréal
• - Lloyds Banking Group
• - Marriott International
• - Maven Partnership
• - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• - Merck (MSD outside the U.S. and Canada)
• - Nestlé
• - Pfizer, Inc.
• - Publicis Groupe
• - Renault Group
• - Sanofi
• - Stellantis

These organizations are at the forefront of setting new standards for supporting employees with serious health conditions like cancer.

Key Findings

The index revealed several common benefits among the best companies:

• - Flexible Work Schedules: 100% of the recognized companies allow for flexible working hours and remote work options.
• - Phased Return-to-Work: 94% provide phased returns for employees transitioning back to the workplace after treatment.
• - Confidential HR Support: An impressive 94% offer a discreet channel for employees to discuss HR topics related to their condition.

Moreover, unique benefits presented include:

• - Coverage for clinical trials not included in standard health insurance (29% coverage)
• - Training programs for managers supervising caregiving staff (29%)
• - Hardship grants funded by employers (24%)

The Importance of Support

According to the National Cancer Institute, over 2 million new cancer cases are diagnosed annually in the U.S., with more than 72% of diagnoses occurring within the crucial working age group of 20 to 74 years. These statistics highlight the urgency for workplaces to cultivate environments that prioritize health and well-being.

A Roadmap for Future Employers

This index not only acknowledges the efforts of the best companies but also serves as a guide for other employers who aspire to enhance their workplace culture around health issues. Companies interested in applying for the 2027 Best Companies for Working with Cancer can find further information on the CAC website.

Conclusion

The inaugural Best Companies for Working with Cancer Index signifies a pivotal advancement in workplace inclusivity for employees battling cancer. Cancer and Careers aims to bridge gaps that have existed in workplace support, enabling both employees and employers to navigate this difficult journey together. By recognizing such companies, the index establishes a benchmark for comprehensive support that could potentially inspire others in the industry.

For more detailed information about the index and upcoming assessments, visit Cancer and Careers' website.