HiFi: Cancer care can be costly and stressful
Cancer care is incredibly costly for many patients, and treatment costs are not the only financial consideration. According to experts, it’s essential to think about all clinical and non-clinical costs when creating a treatment plan.
“Many people with a history of cancer report having challenges paying for their medical care or they report stress and worry about their high out-of-pocket costs or even delay or forgo recommended care because of costs,” said Robin Yabroff, PhD, scientific vice president, Health Services Research for the American Cancer Society.
That’s why it is important for patients to raise the issue of affordability and other financial stressors early and often with their doctor and other care team members.
Ask a clinician about costs. Although a cancer diagnosis is often overwhelming, raising any financial concerns earlier in the treatment process can reduce worry about it, may reduce clinical costs and will prevent financial barriers from interfering with a patient’s treatment, said Mari Montesano, manager of the Breast Care Helpline at Susan G. Komen.
Kamal Golla, MD, a urologic oncologist and medical director at Evolent, recommends patients also consider the non-clinical financial aspects of treatment.
“Who’s currently supporting the family? Are you salaried? Do you work hourly? Have you already missed significant time because of your disease burden? All of that actually is very meaningful inputs to help potentially even change your treatment plan in a way that supports your ability to maintain financial stability,” he said.
What if your clinician doesn’t know financial details? Yabroff said many medical societies encourage physicians to communicate with their patients about any financial concerns. But even if they are not knowledgeable, clinicians often can refer patients to another person at the facility (like a navigator) who can address affordability concerns with patients.
Talk to your insurer. It’s also important for patients to call their health insurer to doublecheck the costs of treatment and their out-of-pocket costs. Patients also need to keep careful records of various conversations and any information they collect to help them throughout their treatment and recovery process.