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Takemura N, Jia S, Lin CC. Financial hardship experience in middle- and older-aged patients with advanced lung cancer. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:372. [PMID: 38775918 PMCID: PMC11111556 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08571-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advancements in medical treatments have resulted in increased medical costs for cancer patients. More than half of the patients with advanced lung cancer reported unmet financial needs. The purpose of this study is to examine the differences in the prevalence and correlates of financial hardship between middle- and older-aged patients with advanced lung cancer, and its impact on multiple health-related outcomes. METHODS This study presents a cross-sectional analysis involving 226 patients with advanced lung cancer, who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial conducted between 2018 and 2020. Data collection was performed through self-reported questionnaires and electronic medical records. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were adopted for analysis. RESULTS 58.0% reported experiencing financial hardships. Middle-aged participants who were single and had a lower education level were more likely to experience financial difficulties. However, males and higher performance status were associated with a lower likelihood of experiencing financial difficulties among older-aged participants. Financial hardship was significantly associated with anxiety (p < 0.001), depression (p < 0.001), sleep disturbances (p < 0.001), quality of life, global health status (p = 0.002), functional scale score (p < 0.001), symptom scale score (p < 0.001), and lung cancer-specific scale score (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS More than half of the patients with advanced lung cancer experienced financial hardships caused by cancer or its treatment, with a higher prevalence reported in middle-aged patients. Different sociodemographic and clinical variables correlated with financial hardship in middle- and older-aged participants, respectively. More attention should be paid to middle-aged patients with advanced lung cancer, particularly during routine assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Takemura
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Academic Building, The University of Hong Kong, 5/F3 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Shumin Jia
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Academic Building, The University of Hong Kong, 5/F3 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Chia-Chin Lin
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Academic Building, The University of Hong Kong, 5/F3 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Charity Foundation Professor in Nursing, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
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2
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Carrera PM, Curigliano G, Santini D, Sharp L, Chan RJ, Pisu M, Perrone F, Karjalainen S, Numico G, Cherny N, Winkler E, Amador ML, Fitch M, Lawler M, Meunier F, Khera N, Pentheroudakis G, Trapani D, Ripamonti CI. ESMO expert consensus statements on the screening and management of financial toxicity in patients with cancer. ESMO Open 2024; 9:102992. [PMID: 38626634 PMCID: PMC11033153 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2024.102992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial toxicity, defined as both the objective financial burden and subjective financial distress from a cancer diagnosis and its treatment, is a topic of interest in the assessment of the quality of life of patients with cancer and their families. Current evidence implicates financial toxicity in psychosocial, economic and other harms, leading to suboptimal cancer outcomes along the entire trajectory of diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, survivorship and palliation. This paper presents the results of a virtual consensus, based on the evidence base to date, on the screening and management of financial toxicity in patients with and beyond cancer organized by the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) in 2022. METHODS A Delphi panel of 19 experts from 11 countries was convened taking into account multidisciplinarity, diversity in health system contexts and research relevance. The international panel of experts was divided into four working groups (WGs) to address questions relating to distinct thematic areas: patients with cancer at risk of financial toxicity; management of financial toxicity during the initial phase of treatment at the hospital/ambulatory settings; financial toxicity during the continuing phase and at end of life; and financial risk protection for survivors of cancer, and in cancer recurrence. After comprehensively reviewing the literature, statements were developed by the WGs and then presented to the entire panel for further discussion and amendment, and voting. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION A total of 25 evidence-informed consensus statements were developed, which answer 13 questions on financial toxicity. They cover evidence summaries, practice recommendations/guiding statements and policy recommendations relevant across health systems. These consensus statements aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of financial toxicity and guide clinicians globally in mitigating its impact, emphasizing the importance of further research, best practices and guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Carrera
- German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; Healtempact: Health/Economic Insights-Impact, Hengelo, The Netherlands.
| | - G Curigliano
- European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milano, Milan
| | - D Santini
- Oncologia Medica A, Policlinico Umberto 1, La Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - L Sharp
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - R J Chan
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - M Pisu
- University of Alabama in Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - F Perrone
- National Cancer Institute IRCCS G. Pascale Foundation, Naples, Italy
| | | | - G Numico
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - N Cherny
- Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - E Winkler
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), NCT Heidelberg, a partnership between DKFZ and Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Medical Faculty, Department of Medical Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M L Amador
- Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Fitch
- Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - M Lawler
- Patrick G. Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - F Meunier
- European Initiative on Ending Discrimination against Cancer Survivors and Belgian Royal Academy of Medicine (ARMB), Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - D Trapani
- European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milano, Milan
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3
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You W, Pilehvari A, Shi R, Cohn W, Sheffield C, Chow PI, Krukowski BA, Anderson R. A multi-dimensional assessment of financial hardship of cancer patients using existing health system data. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22263-22277. [PMID: 37987094 PMCID: PMC10757134 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing financial hardship screening does not capture the multifaceted and dynamic nature of the problem. The use of existing health system data is a promising way to enable scalable and sustainable financial hardship screening. METHODS We used existing data from 303 adult patients with cancer at the University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Center (2016-2018). All received distress screening and had a valid financial assistance screening based solely on household size-adjusted income. We constructed a composite index that integrates multiple existing health system data (Epic, distress screening, and cancer registry) to assess comprehensive financial hardship (e.g., material conditions, psychological responses, and coping behaviors). We examined differences of at-risk patients identified by our composite index and by existing single-dimension criterion. Dynamics of financial hardship over time, by age, and cancer type, were examined by fractional probit models. RESULTS At-risk patients identified by the composite index were generally younger, better educated, and had a higher annual household income, though they had lower health insurance coverage. Identified periods to intervene for most patients are before formal diagnosis, 2 years, and 6 years after diagnosis. Within 2 years of diagnosis and more than 4 years after diagnosis appear critical for subgroups of patients who may suffer from financial hardship disparities. CONCLUSION Existing health system data provides opportunities to systematically measure and track financial hardship in a systematic, scalable and sustainable way. We find that the dimensions of financial hardship can exhibit different patterns over time and across patient subgroups, which can guide targeted interventions. The scalability of the algorithm is limited by existing data availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen You
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Asal Pilehvari
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Ruoding Shi
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Wendy Cohn
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Christina Sheffield
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Philip I‐Fon Chow
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | | | - Roger Anderson
- University of Virginia Comprehensive Cancer CenterCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
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4
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Sukumar S, Wasfy JH, Januzzi JL, Peppercorn J, Chino F, Warraich HJ. Financial Toxicity of Medical Management of Heart Failure: JACC Review Topic of the Week. J Am Coll Cardiol 2023; 81:2043-2055. [PMID: 37197848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.03.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Optimal medical management of heart failure (HF) improves quality of life, decreases mortality, and decreases hospitalizations. Cost may contribute to suboptimal adherence to HF medications, especially angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. Patients' experiences with HF medication cost include financial burden, financial strain, and financial toxicity. Although there has been research studying financial toxicity in patients with some chronic diseases, there are no validated tools for measuring financial toxicity of HF, and very few data on the subjective experiences of patients with HF and financial toxicity. Strategies to decrease HF-associated financial toxicity include making systemic changes to minimize cost sharing, optimizing shared decision-making, implementing policies to lower drug costs, broadening insurance coverage, and using financial navigation services and discount programs. Clinicians may also improve patient financial wellness through various strategies in routine clinical care. Future research is needed to study financial toxicity and associated patient experiences for HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smrithi Sukumar
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. https://twitter.com/SmrithiSukumar
| | - Jason H Wasfy
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James L Januzzi
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey Peppercorn
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fumiko Chino
- Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, New York, USA
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Medicine, Cardiology Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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5
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Hamel LM, Dougherty DW, Hastert TA, Seymour EK, Kim S, Assad H, Phalore J, Soulliere R, Eggly S. The DISCO App: A pilot test of a multi-level intervention to reduce the financial burden of cancer through improved cost communication ☆. PEC INNOVATION 2021; 1:100002. [PMCID: PMC10194252 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2021.100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Objective Financial toxicity affects 30–50% of people with cancer in the US. Although experts recommend patients and physicians discuss treatment cost, cost discussions occur infrequently. We pilot-tested the feasibility, acceptability and influence on outcomes of the DIScussions of COst (DISCO) App, a multi-level communication intervention designed to improve cost discussions and related outcomes. Methods While waiting to see their physician, patients (n = 32) used the DISCO App on a tablet. Physicians were given a cost discussion tip sheet. Clinic visits were video recorded and patients completed pre- and post-intervention measures of self-efficacy for managing costs, self-efficacy for interacting with physicians, cost-related distress, and perceptions of the DISCO App. Coders observed the recordings to determine the presence of cost discussions, initiators, and topics. Results Most patients reported needing ≤15 min to use the DISCO App, and that it made it easier to ask cost-related questions. Findings showed increased self-efficacy for managing treatment costs (p = .02) and for interacting with physicians (p = .001). All visits included a cost discussion. Conclusions Prompting patients to discuss costs may improve cost treatment discussions and related outcomes. Innovation An app-based and tailorable treatment-cost communication intervention is feasible, acceptable, and demonstrates promise in prompting cost discussions and improving outcomes. Trial registration: Clinical Trials.gov registration number: NCT03676920 (September 19, 2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Hamel
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - David W. Dougherty
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave DA 941, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Theresa A. Hastert
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | | | - Seongho Kim
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Hadeel Assad
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Jasminder Phalore
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | | | - Susan Eggly
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
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6
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Hamel LM, Dougherty DW, Kim S, Heath EI, Mabunda L, Tadesse E, Hill R, Eggly S. DISCO App: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of a patient intervention to reduce the financial burden of cancer in a diverse patient population. Trials 2021; 22:636. [PMID: 34535162 PMCID: PMC8447769 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05593-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Financial toxicity, the material and psychological burden of the cost of treatment, affects 30–50% of people with cancer, even those with health insurance. The burden of treatment cost can affect treatment adherence and, ultimately, mortality. Financial toxicity is a health equity issue, disproportionately affecting patients who are racial/ethnic minorities, have lower incomes, and are < 65 years old. Patient education about treatment cost and patient-oncologist cost discussions are recommended as ways to address financial toxicity; however, research shows cost discussions occur infrequently (Altice et al. J Natl Cancer Inst 109:djw205, 2017; Schnipper et al. J Clin Oncol 34:2925-34, 2016; Zafar et al. Oncologist 18:381-90, 2013; American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network 2010). Our overall goal is to address the burden of financial toxicity and work toward health equity through a tailorable education and communication intervention, the DISCO App. The aim of this longitudinal randomized controlled trial is to test the effectiveness of the DISCO App on the outcomes in a population of economically and racially/ethnically diverse cancer patients from all age groups. Methods Patients diagnosed with breast, lung, colorectal, or prostate cancer at a NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in Detroit, MI, will be randomized to one of three study arms: one usual care arm (arm 1) and two intervention arms (arms 2 and 3). All intervention patients (arms 2 and 3) will receive the DISCO App before the second interaction with their oncologist, and patients in arm 3 will receive an intervention booster. The DISCO App, presented on an iPad, includes an educational video about treatment costs, ways to manage them, and the importance of discussing them with oncologists. Patients enter socio-demographic information (e.g., employment, insurance status) and indicate their financial concerns. They then receive a tailored list of questions to consider asking their oncologist. All patients will have up to two interactions with their oncologist video recorded and complete measures at baseline, after the recorded interactions and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the second interaction. Outcome measures will assess discussions of cost, communication quality, knowledge of treatment costs, self-efficacy for treatment cost management, referrals for support, short- and longer-term financial toxicity, and treatment adherence. Discussion If effective, this intervention will improve awareness of and discussions of treatment cost and alleviate the burden of financial toxicity. It may be especially helpful to groups disproportionately affected by financial toxicity, helping to achieve health equity. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04766190. Registered on February 23, 2021
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Hamel
- Wayne State University School of Medicine/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St., Detroit, MI, 48201, USA.
| | | | - Seongho Kim
- Wayne State University School of Medicine/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St., Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Elisabeth I Heath
- Wayne State University School of Medicine/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St., Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Lorna Mabunda
- Wayne State University School of Medicine/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St., Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
| | - Eyouab Tadesse
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - RaeAnn Hill
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Susan Eggly
- Wayne State University School of Medicine/Karmanos Cancer Institute, 4100 John R St., Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
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7
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Smith GL, Mendoza TR, Lowenstein LM, Shih YCT. Financial Hardship in Survivorship Care Delivery. J Natl Cancer Inst Monogr 2021; 2021:10-14. [PMID: 34478512 PMCID: PMC8415532 DOI: 10.1093/jncimonographs/lgaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-related financial hardship is highly prevalent and affects individuals in the setting of cancer care delivery across the survivorship trajectory. Mitigating financial hardship requires multi-level solutions at the policy, payer, health-care system, provider, and individual patient levels. At the highest level, strategies for intervention include enacting policies to improve price transparency and expand insurance coverage. Also needed are implementing systematic screening and financial navigation in cancer care delivery; improving cost communication by provider care teams; developing patient-reported measures that incorporate the multiple, complex dimensions of financial hardship, as reflected in the Economic Strain and Resilience in Cancer tool; and advancing electronic medical record infrastructure to manage data on patient financial hardship. For individual patients, activating their social networks, community resources, and employers provides patient-level support resources to enhance coping. The proposed multi-level approach is needed to overcome financial hardship in the setting of high-quality, high-value cancer care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tito R Mendoza
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lisa M Lowenstein
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ya-Chen Tina Shih
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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8
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Lee J, Cagle JG. A conceptual framework for understanding financial burden during serious illness. Nurs Inq 2021; 29:e12451. [PMID: 34382286 DOI: 10.1111/nin.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Life-threatening illness is associated with financial burden among families. During this time, care-related expenses often increase. The concept of financial burden has not fully been explored nor conceptually described in the literature. Our study coalesces the empirical literature on financial burden into a more comprehensive multidimensional theoretical framework to understand financial burden among patients and families dealing with serious illness. Using Jabareen's phased approach for building conceptual frameworks, we synthesized the existing scientific literature (including existing measures of financial burden) to construct an empirically derived model. Definitions of financial burden are overlapping with similarities, but also inconsistencies. Many studies have focused more on objective and operational definitions, than subjective and conceptual aspects. Regarding measures for financial burden, many studies have only used a few items. The financial burden is dependent on the illness trajectories and duration. By considering multidimensionality, we illustrate potential financial burden factors (objective, coping, and subjective). Although anticipation and expectations about future financial issues are important, patients and caregivers generally experience objective aspects of burden, followed by subjective impressions of burden. Coping skills likely reduce subjective burden. Based on the results, we redefine the financial burden among patients with life-threatening illness and caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonyup Lee
- Konkuk University, Department of Social Welfare, South Korea
| | - John G Cagle
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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9
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Iragorri N, de Oliveira C, Fitzgerald N, Essue B. The Out-of-Pocket Cost Burden of Cancer Care-A Systematic Literature Review. Curr Oncol 2021; 28:1216-1248. [PMID: 33804288 PMCID: PMC8025828 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol28020117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Out-of-pocket costs pose a substantial economic burden to cancer patients and their families. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the literature on out-of-pocket costs of cancer care. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies that estimated the out-of-pocket cost burden faced by cancer patients and their caregivers. The average monthly out-of-pocket costs per patient were reported/estimated and converted to 2018 USD. Costs were reported as medical and non-medical costs and were reported across countries or country income levels by cancer site, where possible, and category. The out-of-pocket burden was estimated as the average proportion of income spent as non-reimbursable costs. RESULTS Among all cancers, adult patients and caregivers in the U.S. spent between USD 180 and USD 2600 per month, compared to USD 15-400 in Canada, USD 4-609 in Western Europe, and USD 58-438 in Australia. Patients with breast or colorectal cancer spent around USD 200 per month, while pediatric cancer patients spent USD 800. Patients spent USD 288 per month on cancer medications in the U.S. and USD 40 in other high-income countries (HICs). The average costs for medical consultations and in-hospital care were estimated between USD 40-71 in HICs. Cancer patients and caregivers spent 42% and 16% of their annual income on out-of-pocket expenses in low- and middle-income countries and HICs, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We found evidence that cancer is associated with high out-of-pocket costs. Healthcare systems have an opportunity to improve the coverage of medical and non-medical costs for cancer patients to help alleviate this burden and ensure equitable access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Iragorri
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
| | - Claire de Oliveira
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
- Centre for Health Economics and Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
| | | | - Beverley Essue
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada; (C.d.O.); (B.E.)
- The Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON M5H 1J8, Canada;
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10
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Gidwani R, Asch SM, Needleman J, Faricy-Anderson K, Boothroyd DB, Illarmo S, Lorenz KA, Patel MI, Hsin G, Ramchandran K, Wagner TH. End-of-Life Cost Trajectories in Cancer Patients Treated by Medicare versus the Veterans Health Administration. J Am Geriatr Soc 2020; 69:916-923. [PMID: 33368171 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES To evaluate differences in end-of-life cost trajectories for cancer patients treated through Medicare versus by the Veterans Health Administration (VA). DESIGN A retrospective analysis of VA and Medicare administrative data from FY 2010 to 2014. We employed three-level generalized estimating equations to evaluate monthly cost trajectories experienced by patients in their last year of life, with patients nested within hospital referral region. SETTING Care received at VA facilities or by Medicare-reimbursed providers nationwide. PARTICIPANTS A total of 36,401 patients dying from cancer and dually enrolled in VA and Medicare. MEASUREMENTS We evaluated trajectories for total, inpatient, outpatient, and drug costs, using the last 12 months of life. Cost trajectories were prioritized as costs are not directly comparable across Medicare and VA. Patients were assigned to be VA-reliant, Medicare-reliant or Mixed-reliant based on their healthcare utilization in the last year of life. RESULTS All three groups experienced significantly different cost trajectories for total costs in the last year of life. Inpatient cost trajectories were significantly different between Medicare-reliant and VA-reliant patients, but did not differ between VA-reliant and Mixed-reliant patients. Outpatient and drug cost trajectories exhibited the inverse pattern: they were significantly different between VA-reliant and Mixed-reliant patients, but not between VA-reliant and Medicare-reliant patients. However, visual examination of cost trajectories revealed similar cost patterns in the last year of life among all three groups; there was a sharp rise in costs as patients approach death, largely due to inpatient care. CONCLUSION Despite substantially different financial incentives and organization, VA- and Medicare-treated patients exhibit similar patterns of increasing end-of-life costs, largely driven by inpatient costs. Both systems require improvement to ensure quality of end-of-life care is aligned with recommended practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risha Gidwani
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven M Asch
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jack Needleman
- Department of Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Katherine Faricy-Anderson
- Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Derek B Boothroyd
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Samantha Illarmo
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Karl A Lorenz
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Manali I Patel
- Center for Health Policy/Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.,VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Gary Hsin
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.,VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Kavitha Ramchandran
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Todd H Wagner
- Health Economics Resource Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Center for Innovation to Implementation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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11
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Wilson LE, Greiner MA, Altomare I, Rotter J, Dinan MA. Rapid rise in the cost of targeted cancer therapies for Medicare patients with solid tumors from 2006 to 2015. J Geriatr Oncol 2020; 12:375-380. [PMID: 33250425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflation-adjusted cancer costs in the United States have increased 40% in the last decade, leading to increasing financial burden on both payers and patients. Patients under 65 show substantial increases in utilization of expensive targeted therapy anticancer agents; however, patients aged 65+ account for the majority of new malignancies. Utilization and cost trends for these emerging agents have not been examined in detail in the Medicare population. PATIENTS AND METHODS Retrospective prevalent cohort analysis of patients 65+ with any stage of invasive lung, breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer, receiving systemic therapy drawn from the United States Medicare 5% fee-for-service sample claims (2005-2015). Yearly trends in utilization and associated costs were modeled with adjustment for inflation, demographics, and comorbidities. RESULTS Among Medicare beneficiaries with fee-for-service and Part D enrollment who were receiving some type of systemic anticancer therapy, there were 9230 patients with colorectal, 32,738 patients with breast, and 16,278 patients with lung cancers identified from 2006 to 2015, and 19,295 patients with prostate cancer from 2009 to 2015. The share of cancer costs to Medicare attributable to targeted therapies, increased dramatically for prostate cancer (1.7% to 19.4%), lung cancer (6.7% to 19.4%), colorectal cancer (11.7% to 22.2%), and breast cancer (15.8% to 25.5%). Although the proportion of patients receiving targeted therapies remained stable, mean per-patient cancer costs increased dramatically from 2006 to 2015 for patients with lung or prostate cancer receiving targeted therapy and for patients with breast cancer receiving non-hormonal targeted therapies. Targeted agents for these cancers showed substantial inflation-adjusted price growth over this time period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Wilson
- Department of Population Health Science, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA.
| | - Melissa A Greiner
- Department of Population Health Science, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Ivy Altomare
- Division of Medical Oncology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Jason Rotter
- Department of Population Health Science, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Michaela A Dinan
- Department of Population Health Science, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA; Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
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12
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Kayser K, Smith L, Washington A, Harris LM, Head B. Living with the financial consequences of cancer: A life course perspective. J Psychosoc Oncol 2020; 39:17-34. [PMID: 32876547 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2020.1814933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Financial hardship can be a major cause of distress among persons with cancer, resulting in chronic stress and impacting physical and emotional health. This paper provides an analysis of the lived experience of cancer patients' financial hardship from diagnosis to post-treatment. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with 26 cancer survivors who reported financial hardship during and/or after treatment. The interviews were analyzed using DedooseTM as an organizational tool, the life course perspective as an organizing theoretical framework, and a thematic analysis tool 1 to answer our research questions. Our analysis identified that timing and sequencing of life transitions and stress proliferation furthered the process of financial stress over time. FINDINGS Cancer survivors do not experience financial toxicity as a singular process; the experience can be quite different depending on age and life transitions. PRACTICE/POLICY IMPLICATIONS These findings provide psychosocial oncology providers with a framework for identifying patients at risk for financial distress and addressing the critical needs related to their life stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Kayser
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Lisa Smith
- Grace Abbott School of Social Work, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ariel Washington
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Lesley M Harris
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Barbara Head
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
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13
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Schenck-Fontaine A, Panico L. Many Kinds of Poverty: Three Dimensions of Economic Hardship, Their Combinations, and Children's Behavior Problems. Demography 2020; 56:2279-2305. [PMID: 31808103 DOI: 10.1007/s13524-019-00833-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Income poverty, material deprivation, and subjective financial stress are three distinct dimensions of economic hardship. The majority of the theoretical and empirical literature on the effects of economic hardship on children has treated material deprivation and subjective financial stress as only mediators of the effects of income poverty, not considering the independent effects of each dimension or the effects of their combinations. Using nationally representative, longitudinal data from the Millennium Cohort Study on more than 18,000 families in the United Kingdom, we propose seven distinct experiences of economic hardship, based on the possible combinations of income poverty, material deprivation, and subjective financial stress. We use mixed- and fixed-effects linear regression models to identify whether these different economic hardship combinations are differentially associated with children's behavior problems between ages 3 and 7. We find that all economic hardship combinations, including those without income poverty, are associated with higher levels of children's behavior problems. The combination of material deprivation and subjective financial stress and the combination of all three dimensions of economic hardship are associated with the highest levels of behavior problems. Based on these findings, we argue that income poverty is an important but insufficient measure of economic hardship for children and that theory and research on the effects of economic hardship on children should consider the multidimensional nature of economic stressors for families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Schenck-Fontaine
- Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories, Wilhelmsplatz 3, 96047, Bamberg, Germany.
| | - Lidia Panico
- Institut National d'Études Démographiques, 133 Boulevard Davout, 75020, Paris, France
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14
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Immunotargeted therapy in melanoma: patient, provider preferences, and willingness to pay at an academic cancer center. Melanoma Res 2020; 29:626-634. [PMID: 30688762 PMCID: PMC6887632 DOI: 10.1097/cmr.0000000000000572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. New melanoma therapies have shifted the expectations of patients and providers. Evaluating the impact of treatment characteristics may enhance shared decision making. A survey, including a discrete choice experiment, was utilized to evaluate perceived trade-offs of different melanoma treatments and to estimate out-of-pocket (OOP) willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds (January 2016 to March 2016). Participants included patients with melanoma at Huntsman Cancer Institute and their cancer care providers. Stakeholder focus groups were conducted to identify treatment attributes. Descriptive and comparative statistics and multinomial logit model were used to evaluate responses. Response rates were 41.9% (N = 220) for patients and 37.7% (N = 20) for providers. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy attributes considered important by participants were overall survival, immunotherapy-related side effects, and skin toxicities. Patients and providers had significantly different views of quality-of-life expectations, anxiety toward melanoma, trust to make treatment decisions, sharing concerns about treatment, time to discuss treatment, understanding OOP costs, and willingness to undergo/recommend treatment (half of the patients would undergo treatment if it was effective for > 24 months). Among patients, the average monthly OOP WTP for combination immunotherapy with nivolumab + ipilimumab was $ 2357 and for BRAF/MEK inhibitor was $1648. Among providers, these estimates were $ 2484 and $1350, respectively. Discordance existed between patients’ and providers’ perceptions about quality of life expectations, degree of anxiety, sharing of opinions, and progression-free survival. Our study suggests that patients and providers exhibit a higher OOP WTP for combination immunotherapy treatment compared with BRAF/MEK inhibitors, influenced predominately by overall survival expectations.
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15
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Tangka FKL, Subramanian S, Jones M, Edwards P, Flanigan T, Kaganova Y, Smith KW, Thomas CC, Hawkins NA, Rodriguez J, Fairley T, Guy GP. Insurance Coverage, Employment Status, and Financial Well-Being of Young Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020; 29:616-624. [PMID: 32132129 PMCID: PMC7909848 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-19-0352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic cost of breast cancer is a major personal and public health problem in the United States. This study aims to evaluate the insurance, employment, and financial experiences of young female breast cancer survivors and to assess factors associated with financial decline. METHODS We recruited 830 women under 40 years of age diagnosed with breast cancer between January 2013 and December 2014. The study population was identified through California, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina population-based cancer registries. The cross-sectional survey was fielded in 2017 and included questions on demographics, insurance, employment, out-of-pocket costs, and financial well-being. We present descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis to assess factors associated with financial decline. RESULTS Although 92.5% of the respondents were continuously insured over the past 12 months, 9.5% paid a "higher price than expected" for coverage. Common concerns among the 73.4% of respondents who were employed at diagnosis included increased paid (55.1%) or unpaid (47.3%) time off, suffering job performance (23.2%), and staying at (30.2%) or avoiding changing (23.5%) jobs for health insurance purposes. Overall, 47.0% experienced financial decline due to treatment-related costs. Patients with some college education, multiple comorbidities, late stage diagnoses, and self-funded insurance were most vulnerable. CONCLUSIONS The breast cancer diagnosis created financial hardship for half the respondents and led to myriad challenges in maintaining employment. Employment decisions were heavily influenced by the need to maintain health insurance coverage. IMPACT This study finds that a breast cancer diagnosis in young women can result in employment disruption and financial decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence K L Tangka
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cheryll C Thomas
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nikki A Hawkins
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Juan Rodriguez
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Temeika Fairley
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Gery P Guy
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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16
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Jewett PI, Teoh D, Petzel S, Lee H, Messelt A, Kendall J, Hatsukami D, Everson-Rose SA, Blaes AH, Vogel RI. Cancer-Related Distress: Revisiting the Utility of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer Problem List in Women With Gynecologic Cancers. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e649-e659. [PMID: 32091952 DOI: 10.1200/jop.19.00471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The Distress Thermometer (DT) includes a measure of cancer-related distress and a list of self-reported problems. This study evaluated the utility of the DT problem list in identifying concerns most associated with distress and poorer quality of life (QOL) in survivors of gynecologic cancer. METHODS Demographic, clinical, psychosocial functioning, and DT data were described among 355 women participating in a gynecologic cancer cohort. Problems from the DT list were ranked by prevalence, distress, and QOL. Logistic regression models explored factors associated with problems that were common (≥ 25% prevalence) and associated with distress and QOL. RESULTS The average age of participants was 59.9 years (standard deviation [SD], 10.8 years). Most participants were non-Hispanic white (97%) and had ovarian (44%) or uterine (42%) cancer. The mean DT score was 2.7 (SD, 2.7); participants reported a mean of 7.3 problems (SD, 5.9 problems). The most common problems were fatigue (53.6%), worry (49.9%), and tingling (46.3%); least common problems were childcare (2.1%), fevers (2.1%), and substance abuse (1.1%). Report of some common problems, including tingling, sleep, memory, skin issues, and appearance, was not associated with large differences in distress or QOL. In contrast, some rarer problems such as childcare, treatment decisions, eating, housing, nausea, and bathing/dressing were associated with worse distress or QOL. Younger age, lower income, and chemotherapy were risk factors across common problems that were associated with worse distress or QOL (fatigue, nervousness, sadness, fears, and pain). CONCLUSION The DT problem list did not easily identify concerns most associated with distress and low QOL in patients with gynecologic cancer. Adaptations that enable patients to report their most distressing concerns would enhance clinical utility of this commonly used tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia I Jewett
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN.,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Deanna Teoh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Sue Petzel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Heewon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Audrey Messelt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | | | - Susan A Everson-Rose
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, and Program in Health Disparities Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Anne H Blaes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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17
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Safety and Outcomes of Permanent and Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filters in the Oncology Population. Int J Vasc Med 2020; 2020:6582742. [PMID: 32089887 PMCID: PMC7025073 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6582742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The role for inferior vena cava (IVC) filters in the oncology population is poorly defined. Objectives Our primary endpoint was to determine the rate of filter placement in cancer patients without an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation and the rate of recurrent VTE after filter placement in both retrievable and permanent filter groups. Patients/ Methods A single-institution, retrospective study of patients with active malignancies and acute VTE who received a retrievable or permanent IVC filter between 2009-2013. Demographics and outcomes were confirmed on independent chart review. Cost data were obtained using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Results 179 patients with retrievable filters and 207 patients with permanent filters were included. Contraindication to anticoagulation was the most cited reason for filter placement; however, only 76% of patients with retrievable filters and 69% of patients with permanent filters had an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation. 20% of patients with retrievable filters and 24% of patients with permanent filters had recurrent VTE. The median time from filter placement to death was 8.9 and 3.2 months in the retrievable and permanent filter groups, respectively. The total cost of retrievable filters and permanent filters was $2,883,389 and $3,722,688, respectively. Conclusions The role for IVC filters in cancer patients remains unclear as recurrent VTE is common and time from filter placement to death is short. Filter placement is costly and has a clinically significant complication rate, especially for retrievable filters. More data from prospective, randomized trials are needed to determine the utility of IVC filters in cancer patients.
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18
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Pak TY, Kim H, Kim KT. The long-term effects of cancer survivorship on household assets. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2020; 10:2. [PMID: 31933035 PMCID: PMC6958665 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-019-0253-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Less is known about the impact of cancer on household assets and household financial portfolio during which cancer survivors face higher mortality risk. Economic theory predicts that cancer survivors would deplete their wealth in such a way that meets immediate financial needs for treatment and that hedges the risk of anticipated medical expenses associated with recurrence. Building upon this prediction, we examine long-term changes in household assets in response to cancer diagnosis among middle-aged and elderly Americans (age ≥ 50). RESULTS Using the 2000-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, we estimated the household fixed effects regression that regresses household assets on time elapsed since cancer diagnosis (≤ 2 years, > 2 but ≤4 years, > 4 but ≤6 years, and > 6 but ≤8 years). Regression estimates were adjusted for demographic characteristics, general health condition, employment outcomes, and household economic attributes. Household assets were measured by total net worth as well as the amount of savings held in each asset category. The loss of household assets attributable to cancer was estimated to be $125,832 in 2015 dollars per household with a cancer patient. This change came from statistically significant reductions in investment assets, miscellaneous savings, real estate equity, and business equity, and increases in unsecured debt. We also found 17.2-28.0% increases in cash and cash-equivalent assets from + 2 years since diagnosis through the rest of the study periods. The accumulation of cash was observed for both the well-insured group (multiple coverages) and those with limited insurance (single coverage). CONCLUSIONS The results showed evidence of both asset depletion and precautionary accumulation of liquid assets among cancer survivors, which reduces risk exposure of household financial portfolio. Our findings highlighted that household asset is an important source of liquidity to finance cancer care and to absorb the expected expenditure risk associated with cancer recurrence. We also showed that health insurance provides limited coverage of health risks associated with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Young Pak
- Department of Consumer Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyungsoo Kim
- Department of Family Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY US
| | - Kyoung Tae Kim
- Department of Consumer Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL US
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19
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Financial toxicity associated with treatment of localized prostate cancer. Nat Rev Urol 2019; 17:28-40. [PMID: 31792431 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-019-0258-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Financial toxicity is a broad term to describe the economic consequences and subjective burden resulting from a cancer diagnosis and treatment. As financial toxicity is associated with poor disease outcomes, recognition of this problem and calls for strategies to identify and support those most at risk are increasing. Men with localized prostate cancer face treatment choices including active surveillance, prostatectomy or radiotherapy. The fact that potential patient out-of-pocket costs might influence decision making has rarely been acknowledged and, overall, the risk of financial toxicity for men with localized prostate cancer remains poorly studied. This shortfall requires a work-up in the context of prostate cancer and a multidimensional framework for considering a patient's risk of financial toxicity. The major elements of this framework are direct and indirect costs, patient-specific values, expectations of possible financial burdens, and individual economic circumstances. Current data indicate that total cost patterns probably differ by treatment modality: surgery might have an increased short-term effect, whereas radiotherapy might have an increased long-term risk of financial toxicity. Specific thresholds of patient income levels or out-of-pocket costs that predict risk of financial toxicity are difficult to identify. Compared with other malignancies, prostate cancer might have a lower overall risk of financial toxicity, but persistent post-treatment urinary, bowel or sexual adverse effects are likely to increase this risk.
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20
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Hobbs M, Thakur K. Financial Toxicity as an Unforeseen Side Effect of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. CROHN'S & COLITIS 360 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/crocol/otz024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
“Financial toxicity” refers to the adverse impacts of cost on a patient’s disease experience and outcomes. Although the focus of financial toxicity thus far has been in the context of cancer care, it is reasonable to suspect that other chronic illnesses are afflicted by this same concept. In this article, we discuss a case of financial toxicity in a patient with ulcerative colitis, which ultimately lead to not only insufficient disease management, but also paradoxically increased cost. Our case serves to illustrate the phenomenon of financial toxicity and its consequences in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misty Hobbs
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY
| | - Kshitij Thakur
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY
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21
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Smith GL, Lopez-Olivo MA, Advani PG, Ning MS, Geng Y, Giordano SH, Volk RJ. Financial Burdens of Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors and Outcomes. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2019; 17:1184-1192. [PMID: 31590147 PMCID: PMC7370695 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2019.7305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with cancer experience financial toxicity from the costs of treatment, as well as material and psychologic stress related to this burden. A synthesized understanding of predictors and outcomes of the financial burdens associated with cancer care is needed to underpin strategic responses in oncology care. This study systematically reviewed risk factors and outcomes associated with financial burdens related to cancer treatment. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched from study inception through June 2018, and reference lists were scanned from studies of patient-level predictors and outcomes of financial burdens in US patients with cancer (aged ≥18 years). Two reviewers conducted screening, abstraction, and quality assessment. Variables associated with financial burdens were synthesized. When possible, pooled estimates of associations were calculated using random-effects models. RESULTS A total of 74 observational studies of financial burdens in 598,751 patients with cancer were identified, among which 49% of patients reported material or psychologic financial burdens (95% CI, 41%-56%). Socioeconomic predictors of worse financial burdens with treatment were lack of health insurance, lower income, unemployment, and younger age at cancer diagnosis. Compared with patients with health insurance, those who were uninsured demonstrated twice the odds of financial burdens (pooled odds ratio [OR], 2.09; 95% CI, 1.33-3.30). Financial burdens were most severe early in cancer treatment, did not differ by disease site, and were associated with worse health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and nearly twice the odds of cancer medication nonadherence (pooled OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.13-2.56). Only a single study demonstrated an association with increased mortality. Studies assessing the comparative effectiveness of interventions to mitigate financial burdens in patients with cancer were lacking. CONCLUSIONS Evidence showed that financial burdens are common, disproportionately impacting younger and socioeconomically disadvantaged patients with cancer, across disease sites, and are associated with worse treatment adherence and HRQoL. Available evidence helped identify vulnerable patients needing oncology provider engagement and response, but evidence is critically needed on the effectiveness of interventions designed to mitigate financial burden and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L. Smith
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Maria A. Lopez-Olivo
- Department of General Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Pragati G. Advani
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Matthew S. Ning
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yimin Geng
- Research Medical Library, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sharon H. Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert J. Volk
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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22
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Vela N, Davis LE, Cheng SY, Hammad A, Liu Y, Kagedan DJ, Paszat L, Bubis LD, Earle CC, Myrehaug S, Mahar AL, Mittmann N, Coburn NG. Economic Analysis of Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Compared with Chemotherapy in Resected Pancreas Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 26:4193-4203. [PMID: 31535303 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07808-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population-based survival and costs of pancreas adenocarcinoma patients receiving adjuvant chemoradiation and chemotherapy following pancreaticoduodenectomy are poorly understood. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used linked administrative and pathological datasets to identify all patients diagnosed with pancreas adenocarcinoma and undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy in Ontario between April 2004 and March 2014, who received postoperative chemoradiation or chemotherapy. Stage and margin status were defined by using pathology reports. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression survival analyses were used to determine associations between adjuvant treatment approach and survival, while stratifying by margin status. Median overall health system costs were calculated at 1 and 3 years for chemoradiation and chemotherapy, and differences were tested using the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS Among 709 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreas cancer during the study period, the median survival was 21 months. Median survival was 19 months for chemoradiation and 22 months for chemotherapy. Patients receiving chemoradiation were more likely to have positive margins: 47.7% compared with 19.2% in chemotherapy. After stratifying by margin status and controlling for confounders, adjusted hazard ratio of death were not statistically different between chemotherapy and chemoradiation [margin positive, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.99, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.88-1.27; margin negative, HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.91-1.18]. Overall 1-year health system costs were significantly higher for chemoradiation (USD $70,047) than chemotherapy (USD $54,005) (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Chemotherapy and chemoradiation yielded similar survival, but chemoradiation resulted in higher costs. To create more sustainable healthcare systems, both the efficacy and costs of therapies should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nivethan Vela
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Laura E Davis
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Ahmed Hammad
- Department of General Surgery, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute for Clinical and Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel J Kagedan
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lawrence Paszat
- Institute for Clinical and Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lev D Bubis
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Craig C Earle
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Clinical and Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sten Myrehaug
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alyson L Mahar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Nicole Mittmann
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Clinical and Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Natalie G Coburn
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Institute for Clinical and Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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23
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Barbaret C, Delgado-Guay MO, Sanchez S, Brosse C, Ruer M, Rhondali W, Monsarrat L, Michaud P, Schott AM, Bruera E, Filbet M. Inequalities in Financial Distress, Symptoms, and Quality of Life Among Patients with Advanced Cancer in France and the U.S. Oncologist 2019; 24:1121-1127. [PMID: 30877191 PMCID: PMC6693692 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2018-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Financial distress (FD) is common among patients with advanced cancer. Our purpose was to compare the frequency and intensity of FD and its associations with symptom distress and quality of life (QOL) in these patients in France and the U.S. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this secondary analysis of two cross-sectional studies, we assessed data on 292 patients who received cancer care at a public hospital or a comprehensive cancer center in France (143 patients) or the U.S. (149 patients). Outpatients and hospitalized patients over 18 years of age with advanced lung or breast or colorectal or prostate cancer were included. Diagnosed cognitive disorder was considered a noninclusion criterion. Advanced cancer included relapse or metastasis or locally advanced cancer or at least a second-line chemotherapy regimen. Patients self-rated FD and assessed symptoms, psychosocial distress, and QOL on validated questionnaires. RESULTS The average patient age was 59 years, and 144 (49%) were female. FD and high intensity were reported more frequently in U.S. patients than in French (respectively 129 [88%] vs. 74 [52%], p < .001; 100 [98%] vs. 48 [34%], p < .001,). QOL was rated higher by the U.S. patients than by the French (69 [SD, 18] vs. 63 [SD, 18], p = .003). French patients had more psychological symptoms such as anxiety (8 [SD, 4] vs. 6 [SD, 5], p = .008). Associations were found between FD and U.S. residence, FD and single status (0.907, p = .023), and FD and metastasis (1.538, p = .036). In contrast, negative associations were found between FD and older age (-0.052, p = .003) and FD and France residence (-3.376, p = .001). CONCLUSION Regardless of health care system, FD is frequent in patients with advanced cancer. U.S. patients were more likely to have FD than French patients but reported better QOL. Further research should focus on factors contributing to FD and opportunities for remediation. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Suffering is experienced in any component of the lives of patients with a life-threatening illness. Financial distress (FD) is one of the least explored cancer-related symptoms, and there are limited studies describing its impact on this frail population. This study highlights the high frequency and severity of FD in patients with advanced cancer in the U.S. and France as well as its impact on their physical and emotional symptoms and their quality of life in these different health care systems. It is necessary for all health care providers to explore and evaluate the presence of FD in patients living with life-threatening illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Barbaret
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Marvin O Delgado-Guay
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Stéphane Sanchez
- Department of Medical Information, Evaluation and Performance, Hôpitaux Champagne Sud, Troyes, France
| | - Christelle Brosse
- Department of Palliative Care, Institut de Cancérologie de la Loire, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Murielle Ruer
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon, France
| | - Wadih Rhondali
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon, France
| | - Léa Monsarrat
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon, France
| | - Patrick Michaud
- Department of Palliative Care, Institut de Cancérologie de la Loire, Saint-Etienne, France
| | | | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Marilène Filbet
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon, France
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Li M, Basu A, Bennette CS, Veenstra DL, Garrison LP. Do cancer treatments have option value? Real-world evidence from metastatic melanoma. HEALTH ECONOMICS 2019; 28:855-867. [PMID: 31237095 DOI: 10.1002/hec.3899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
A change in the expectations about future treatments may change the option value of a current treatment, thereby affecting its utilization. We conducted an interrupted time series analysis using a large administrative claims database to test whether the utilization of existing cancer treatments changed after the disclosures of the then-investigational drug ipilimumab's Phase II and Phase III results among metastatic melanoma patients from 2008 to 2011. We used a multinomial logistic regression to analyze the temporal probability of receiving antineoplastic systemic therapy, surgical resection of metastasis, or both, relative to no treatment, in the first 3 months following the first metastasis diagnosis. One thousand eight hundred forty-six metastatic melanoma patients were included. After adjusting for clinical and sociodemographic variables and the underlying time trend, the disclosure of ipilimumab's Phase II result was associated with a nearly twofold immediate increase in the probability of receiving surgical resection of metastasis relative to no treatment, which was significant at 5% level. No significant effect was observed for the time trend. No significant effects were found for the announcement of the Phase III result. Our findings in metastatic melanoma provide the first empirical evidence of the impact of option value in cancer treatment decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Anirban Basu
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - David L Veenstra
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Louis P Garrison
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy and Economics (CHOICE) Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Jones SMW, Nguyen T, Chennupati S. Association of Financial Burden With Self-Rated and Mental Health in Older Adults With Cancer. J Aging Health 2019; 32:394-400. [PMID: 30698482 DOI: 10.1177/0898264319826428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Financial problems in cancer survivors are associated with distress and reduced quality of life. Most studies have been cross-sectional, and a longitudinal study is needed to guide clinical interventions. Method: We used data from two surveys of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). Participants (n = 307) reported whether they experienced six indicators of financial burden. The Patient Health Questionnaire 4 assessed depressive symptoms and general anxiety. Cross-lagged panel analyses assessed whether financial burden predicted distress and health or vice versa. Results: In the total sample, financial burden at the first survey predicted depressive symptoms (p < .01), general anxiety (p < .01), and self-rated health (p < .01) at the second survey. Depressive symptoms, general anxiety, and self-rated health at the first survey did not predict later financial burden (ps > .05). Discussion: Results suggest financial problems predict later distress and poor health. This study highlights the need to address financial burden in cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Trung Nguyen
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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Assessing the Financial Burden Associated With Treatment Options for Resectable Pancreatic Cancer. Ann Surg 2019; 267:544-551. [PMID: 27787294 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000002069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to assess the financial burden associated with treatment options for resectable pancreatic cancer. BACKGROUND As the volume of cancer care increases in the United States, there is growing interest among both clinicians and policy-makers to reduce its financial impact on the healthcare system. However, costs relative to the survival benefit for differing treatment modalities used in practice have not been described. METHODS Patients undergoing resection for pancreatic cancer were identified in the Truven Health MarketScan database. Associations between chemoradiation therapies and survival were performed using parameterized multivariable accelerated failure time models. Median payments over time were calculated for surgery, chemoradiation, and subsequent hospitalizations. RESULTS A total of 2408 patients were included. Median survival among all patients was 21.1 months [95% confidence interval (CI): 19.8-22.5 months], whereas median follow-up time was 25.1 months (95% CI: 23.5-26.5 months). After controlling for comorbidity, receipt of neoadjuvant therapy, and nodal involvement, a longer survival was associated with undergoing combination gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel [time ratio (TR) = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.02-1.57, P = 0.035) or capecitabine and radiation (TR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.04-1.51, P = 0.018). However, median cumulative payments for gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel were highest overall [median $74,051, interquartile range (IQR): $38,929-$133,603). CONCLUSIONS Total payments for an episode of care relative to improvement in survival vary significantly by treatment modality. These data can be used to inform management decisions about pursuing further care for pancreatic cancer. Future investigations should seek to refine estimates of the cost-effectiveness of different treatments.
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Fitzner K, Oteng-Mensah F. Impact of Cost on the Safety of Cancer Pharmaceuticals. Cancer Treat Res 2018; 171:1-20. [PMID: 30552653 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-43896-2_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cancer care drug costs are rising due to a variety of factors, and safety concerns account for some of the cost. At the same time, clinical and economic concerns drive drug safety improvements. This chapter examines pressures on drug costs due to the complexity of care and drug therapies, marked structure in which care is provided, and regulatory requirements driving safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Fitzner
- Economics Department, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Chino F, Peppercorn JM, Rushing C, Nicolla J, Kamal AH, Altomare I, Samsa G, Zafar SY. Going for Broke: A Longitudinal Study of Patient-Reported Financial Sacrifice in Cancer Care. J Oncol Pract 2018; 14:e533-e546. [PMID: 30138052 DOI: 10.1200/jop.18.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with cancer are at risk for substantial treatment-related costs; however, little is known about patients' willingness to sacrifice to receive cancer care and how their attitudes and burden may change with time. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a longitudinal survey of insured patients with solid tumor cancers receiving chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Patients were surveyed at two time points about their willingness to make financial sacrifices and their actual sacrifices, including out-of-pocket costs. Patient attitudes and sacrifices were compared over time. RESULTS Of 349 patients approached, 300 completed the baseline survey (86% response) and 245 completed the follow-up survey 3 months later (82% retention). Median patient-reported cancer-related out-of-pocket costs for patients who completed both surveys were $393 per month (range, $0 to $26,586 per month) at baseline and $328 per month (range, $0 to $8,210 per month) at follow-up. At baseline, 49% were willing to declare personal bankruptcy, 38% were willing to sell their homes, and ≥ 65% were willing to make other sacrifices, including borrowing money to afford their cancer care. Upon follow-up, there were minor decreases in willingness; the maximum net change was a 7% decline in patients willing to declare bankruptcy. Actual sacrifice increased over time; the greatest increase was in patients who used their savings (increased from 41% to 54%). CONCLUSION A large proportion of insured patients with cancer were willing to make considerable personal and financial sacrifices to receive care; these attitudes did not change greatly over time. Shared decision making is important to ensure patients fully understand the goals, risks, and benefits of therapy before they make such personal sacrifices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumiko Chino
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Jeffrey M Peppercorn
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Christel Rushing
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Jonathan Nicolla
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Arif H Kamal
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Ivy Altomare
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - Greg Samsa
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
| | - S Yousuf Zafar
- Duke University Medical Center; Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC; and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, MA
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Hastert TA, Young GS, Pennell ML, Padamsee T, Zafar SY, DeGraffinreid C, Naughton M, Simon M, Paskett ED. Financial burden among older, long-term cancer survivors: Results from the LILAC study. Cancer Med 2018; 7:4261-4272. [PMID: 30019387 PMCID: PMC6143934 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing attention is being paid to financial burdens of cancer survivorship, but little is known about the prevalence and predictors of these burdens in older, long‐term survivors. Methods We used data from 6012 participants diagnosed with cancer since enrolling in the Women's Health Initiative, and who participated in the Life and Longevity After Cancer (LILAC) ancillary study to estimate prevalence and identify predictors of financial burden. We used logistic regression to identify sociodemographic, socioeconomic, health‐ and cancer‐related factors associated with financial burden and backward selection to build a final multivariable model. Results Average age at LILAC participation was 79 and 9.2 years had elapsed since cancer diagnosis. Overall, 6% experienced some form of financial burden, including having an insurance company refuse a claim (2.6%), being denied loans or insurance due to cancer history (2.2%), or experiencing significant indebtedness (1.8%, including facing large debts or bills or declaring bankruptcy). Eight predictors remained associated (P < 0.05) with financial burden in the fully‐adjusted model: younger age, shorter time since diagnosis, African‐American race, household income <$20 000/year, modified Charlson comorbidity score ≥2, receipt of chemotherapy, regional stage at diagnosis, and no private health insurance. Education, cancer site, social support, receipt of radiation, and receipt of hormone therapy were not associated with financial burden. Predictors differed between types of financial burden experienced and age at diagnosis (<65 vs 65+). Conclusion Cancer‐related financial burden was rare in this population of older, female long‐term cancer survivors. The identification of several socioeconomic, health‐related and demographic predictors of financial burden may suggest targets of intervention to reduce financial burdens. Precis Financial burden was uncommon in older, female, long‐term survivors. Predictors of financial burden included age, race, income, comorbidities, time since diagnosis, stage, insurance, and receipt of chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa A Hastert
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan.,Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Gregory S Young
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Michael L Pennell
- Division of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Tasleem Padamsee
- Division of Health Services Management & Policy, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - S Yousuf Zafar
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Michelle Naughton
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Michael Simon
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan.,Population Studies and Disparities Research Program, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Electra D Paskett
- Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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Lee M, Yoon K, Choi M. Private health insurance and catastrophic health expenditures of households with cancer patients in South Korea. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2018; 27:e12867. [PMID: 29888826 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the effects of private health insurance (PHI) on the incidence of catastrophic health expenditures (CHE) for households with a patient with cancer. This study uses 1-year data from 2013 and households with cancer patients as the unit of research rather than individual household members. The sample thus includes 468 households with members with cancer who also used emergency, outpatient and hospitalisation services. Households with PHI had a lower incidence of CHE for all thresholds than those without did. At the 10% threshold, the incidence became significantly lower, by 0.59 and 0.60 times, respectively, if householders had higher education and income levels. Moreover, the incidence of CHE was higher by 8.71 times if the householders are female, and lower by 0.84 times if the householders did not have a spouse at the 20% threshold. From the analysis of households with cancer patients that hold PHI as the key variable, these households showed a lower incidence of CHE than the others did. PHI provides healthcare payments not secured through national health insurance (NHI) and protects households from health expenditures, thereby complementing NHI to a certain degree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munjae Lee
- Department of Medical Device Management and Research, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kichan Yoon
- Social Security Information Service, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mankyu Choi
- BK21Plus Program in Public Health Science, Korea University, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Korea
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Organization, quality and cost of oncological home-hospitalization: A systematic review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2018; 126:145-153. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Ohlow MA, Farah A, Kuntze T, Lauer B. Patients' preferences for coronary bypass grafting or staged percutaneous coronary intervention in multi-vessel coronary artery disease. Int J Clin Pract 2018; 72:e13056. [PMID: 29316058 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The decision for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with multi-vessel coronary artery disease (mCAD) is currently made by a heart-team approach. Patients' preference is less well investigated. METHODS All consecutive patients with prior CABG and at least 2 PCI procedures were interviewed whether they would elect bypass surgery or staged PCI in case of a hypothetical scenario in which they had mCAD and CABG or PCI will equally improve symptoms and survival. RESULTS A total 213 patients were surveyed. About 21 (10%) patients had multiple CABG, and mean number of PCI per patient was 4.0 ± 2.7. Complications during CABG were reported in 19.7% and in 14% after PCI, respectively. About 15% experienced complications after both CABG and PCI, and 51% had no complications at all. Mean symptom-free period was 5.2 (following CABG) vs 1.8 years (following PCI); P<.001. Duration of recovery was significant shorter after PCI (mean 9.2 ± 1.2 vs 136.4 ± 57.9 days; P<.01). Based on their personal experience with both procedures, 15% of the participants elected CABG in the hypothetical scenario and 67% choose staged PCI, 18% were equally happy with either. More participants preferred PCI when age was ≥70, complications following CABG occurred, and when undergoing CABG first. Gender, number of CABG or PCI procedures per patient, and complications following PCI did not affect participants' preference. CONCLUSIONS In our hypothetical scenario, the majority of participants preferred staged PCI over CABG. Preferences were related to age, complications following CABG, and whether CABG was performed first.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Farah
- Medizinische Klinik III, Klinikum Westfalen, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuntze
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zentralklinik, Bad Berka, Germany
| | - Bernward Lauer
- Department of Cardiology, Zentralklinik, Bad Berka, Germany
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Chen JE, Lou VW, Jian H, Zhou Z, Yan M, Zhu J, Li G, He Y. Objective and subjective financial burden and its associations with health-related quality of life among lung cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2017; 26:1265-1272. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3949-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Head B, Harris L, Kayser K, Martin A, Smith L. As if the disease was not enough: coping with the financial consequences of cancer. Support Care Cancer 2017; 26:975-987. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3918-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Hess LM, Cui ZL, Wu Y, Fang Y, Gaynor PJ, Oton AB. Current and projected patient and insurer costs for the care of patients with non-small cell lung cancer in the United States through 2040. J Med Econ 2017; 20:850-862. [PMID: 28532187 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2017.1333961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The objective of this study was to quantify the current and to project future patient and insurer costs for the care of patients with non-small cell lung cancer in the US. MATERIALS AND METHODS An analysis of administrative claims data among patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer from 2007-2015 was conducted. Future costs were projected through 2040 based on these data using autoregressive models. RESULTS Analysis of claims data found the average total cost of care during first- and second-line therapy was $1,161.70 and $561.80 for patients, and $45,175.70 and $26,201.40 for insurers, respectively. By 2040, the average total patient out-of-pocket costs are projected to reach $3,047.67 for first-line and $2,211.33 for second-line therapy, and insurance will pay an average of $131,262.39 for first-line and $75,062.23 for second-line therapy. LIMITATIONS Claims data are not collected for research purposes; therefore, there may be errors in entry and coding. Additionally, claims data do not contain important clinical factors, such as stage of disease at diagnosis, tumor histology, or data on disease progression, which may have important implications on the cost of care. CONCLUSIONS The trajectory of the cost of lung cancer care is growing. This study estimates that the cost of care may double by 2040, with the greatest proportion of increase in patient out-of-pocket costs. Despite the average cost projections, these results suggest that a small sub-set of patients with very high costs could be at even greater risk in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Hess
- a Eli Lilly and Company , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | | | - Yixun Wu
- b inVentiv Health , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | - Yun Fang
- b inVentiv Health , Indianapolis , IN , USA
| | | | - Ana B Oton
- a Eli Lilly and Company , Indianapolis , IN , USA
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Borba MACSM, Castelletti CHM, Filho JLDL, Martins DBG. Point-of-care devices: the next frontier in personalized chemotherapy. Future Sci OA 2017; 3:FSO219. [PMID: 28884015 PMCID: PMC5583650 DOI: 10.4155/fsoa-2017-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Amélia Carlos Souto Maior Borba
- Molecular Prospection & Bioinformatics Group (ProspecMol) - Laboratory of Immunopathology Keizo Asami (LIKA), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Madeiros Castelletti
- Molecular Prospection & Bioinformatics Group (ProspecMol) - Laboratory of Immunopathology Keizo Asami (LIKA), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
- Agronomic Institute of Pernambuco (IPA), Av. General San Martin 1371, 50761–000, Bongi, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - José Luiz de Lima Filho
- Molecular Prospection & Bioinformatics Group (ProspecMol) - Laboratory of Immunopathology Keizo Asami (LIKA), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Danyelly Bruneska Gondim Martins
- Molecular Prospection & Bioinformatics Group (ProspecMol) - Laboratory of Immunopathology Keizo Asami (LIKA), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
- Biochemistry Department, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Av. Prof. Moraes Rego 1235, 50670–901, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, Brazil
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Barbaret C, Brosse C, Rhondali W, Ruer M, Monsarrat L, Michaud P, Schott AM, Delgado-Guay M, Bruera E, Sanchez S, Filbet M. Financial distress in patients with advanced cancer. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176470. [PMID: 28545063 PMCID: PMC5436643 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We examined the frequency and severity of financial distress (FD) and its association with quality of life (QOL) and symptoms among patients with advanced cancer in France. Design In this cross-sectional study, 143 patients with advanced cancer were enrolled. QOL was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer General (FACT-G) and symptoms assessed using Edmonton Assessment System (ESAS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). FD was assessed using a self-rated numeric scale from 0 to 10. Results Seventy-three (51%) patients reported having FD. Patients reported having FD were most likely to be younger (53.8 (16,7SD) versus 62 (10.5SD), p<0.001), single (33 (62%) versus 40(44%), p = 0.03) and had a breast cancer (26 (36%), p = 0.024). Patients with FD had a lower FACT-G score (59 versus 70, p = 0.005). FD decreased physical (14 versus 18, p = 0.008), emotional (14 versus 16, p = 0.008), social wellbeing (17 versus 19, p = 0.04). Patients with FD had higher HADS-D (8 versus 6 p = 0.007) and HADS-A (9 versus 7, p = 0.009) scores. FD was linked to increased ESAS score (59 (18SD) versus 67 (18SD), p = 0.005) and spiritual suffering (22(29SD) versus 13(23SD), p = 0.045). Conclusion The high rate of patient-reported FD was unexpected in our studied population, as the French National Health Insurance covers specific cancer treatments. The FD was associated with a poorer quality of life. Having a systematic assessment, with a simple tool, should lead to future research on interventions that will increase patients’ QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Barbaret
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Christelle Brosse
- Departement of Palliative Care, Institut de Cancérologie de la Loire, Saint-Etienne. France
| | - Wadih Rhondali
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon. France
| | | | | | - Patrick Michaud
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon. France
| | | | - Marvin Delgado-Guay
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Texas, Unites States of America
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Texas, Unites States of America
| | - Stéphane Sanchez
- Department of Medical Information Evaluation and Performance, Hôpitaux Champagne Sud, Troyes, France
| | - Marilène Filbet
- Department of Supportive and Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Lyon. France
- * E-mail:
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Ó Céilleachair A, Hanly P, Skally M, O'Leary E, O'Neill C, Fitzpatrick P, Kapur K, Staines A, Sharp L. Counting the cost of cancer: out-of-pocket payments made by colorectal cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2017; 25:2733-2741. [PMID: 28341973 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3683-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer places a significant cost burden on health services. There is increasing recognition that cancer also imposes a financial and economic burden on patients but this has rarely been quantified outside North America. We investigate out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) incurred by colorectal (CRC) survivors in Ireland. METHODS CRC survivors (ICD10 C18-20) diagnosed 6-30 months previously were identified from the National Cancer Registry Ireland and invited to complete a postal questionnaire. Cancer-related OOPC for tests, procedures, drugs, allied medications and household management in approximately the year following diagnosis were calculated. Robust regression was used to identify predictors of OOPC; this was done for all survivors combined and stratified by age (<70 and ≥70 years) and employment status (working and not working) at diagnosis. RESULTS Four hundred ninety-seven CRC survivors completed questionnaires (response rate = 39%). Almost all (90%) respondents reported some cancer-related OOPC. The average total OOPC was €1589. Stage III at diagnosis was associated with significantly higher OOPCs than other stages in the all-survivor model, in those not working in the employment model and in those under 70 years in the age-stratified model. In all-survivor model, those under 70 also had higher OOPCs, as did those in employment. Having one or more children was associated with significantly lower OOPCs in those under 70 years. CONCLUSIONS Almost all CRC survivors incur cancer-related OOPCs; for some, these are not insignificant. Greater attention should be paid to the development of services to help survivors manage the financial and economic burden of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Ó Céilleachair
- National Cancer Registry Ireland, Building 6800, Cork Airport Business Park, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Paul Hanly
- National College of Ireland, IFSC, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - Máiréad Skally
- National Cancer Registry Ireland, Building 6800, Cork Airport Business Park, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eamonn O'Leary
- National Cancer Registry Ireland, Building 6800, Cork Airport Business Park, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Patricia Fitzpatrick
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Population Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Kanika Kapur
- School of Economics and Geary Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Anthony Staines
- School of Nursing and Human Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Linda Sharp
- Institute of Health & Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
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Kamel MH, Barber A, Davis R, Raheem OA, Bissada N, Abdelmaksoud AEA, Eltahawy E. Reimbursements and frequency of tests in privately insured testicular cancer patients in the United States: Implications to national guidelines. Urol Ann 2017; 9:153-158. [PMID: 28479767 PMCID: PMC5405659 DOI: 10.4103/0974-7796.204180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of utilization and reimbursement of the common diagnostic tests and treatment modalities used in testicular cancer care. Methods: LifeLink™ (IMS Health, Danbury, CT, USA) Claims Database was used. We identified 877 subjects with a primary diagnosis of testicular cancer (ICD 186.9) between 2007 and 2012. Median reimbursement and frequency of the diagnostic/treatment modalities used were recorded. Results: The most common claim was a vein puncture with median reimbursement of $9.11. Tumor markers, alpha-fetoprotein and beta human chorionic gonadotropin, were ranked 6th and 7th with median reimbursement of $52.13 and $48.71, respectively. Chest X-ray and computerized tomography (CT) scan of the chest were ranked 9th and 13th with median reimbursement of $68.51 and $769, respectively. A contrast CT scan of abdomen and pelvis was the 11th most frequent claim with median reimbursement of $855.89. The three invasive treatment modalities, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy were ranked 8th, 15th, and 164th with median reimbursement of $2858.38, $3988.25, and $2009.67, respectively. Conclusions: Testicular cancer is not an inexpensive disease. Surgery is the less utilized than radiation and chemotherapy despite lower cost. This may have implications to national guidelines and training since these treatments often carry the same grade of recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed H Kamel
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas, USA.,Department of Urology, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Austin Barber
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas, USA
| | - Rodney Davis
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas, USA
| | - Omer A Raheem
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Nabil Bissada
- Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Ehab Eltahawy
- Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas, USA.,Department of Urology, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Hamel LM, Penner LA, Eggly S, Chapman R, Klamerus JF, Simon MS, Stanton SCE, Albrecht TL. Do Patients and Oncologists Discuss the Cost of Cancer Treatment? An Observational Study of Clinical Interactions Between African American Patients and Their Oncologists. J Oncol Pract 2016; 13:e249-e258. [PMID: 27960067 DOI: 10.1200/jop.2016.015859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Financial toxicity negatively affects patients with cancer, especially racial/ethnic minorities. Patient-oncologist discussions about treatment-related costs may reduce financial toxicity by factoring costs into treatment decisions. This study investigated the frequency and nature of cost discussions during clinical interactions between African American patients and oncologists and examined whether cost discussions were affected by patient sociodemographic characteristics and social support, a known buffer to perceived financial stress. Methods Video recorded patient-oncologist clinical interactions (n = 103) from outpatient clinics of two urban cancer hospitals (including a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center) were analyzed. Coders studied the videos for the presence and duration of cost discussions and then determined the initiator, topic, oncologist response to the patient's concerns, and the patient's reaction to the oncologist's response. RESULTS Cost discussions occurred in 45% of clinical interactions. Patients initiated 63% of discussions; oncologists initiated 36%. The most frequent topics were concern about time off from work for treatment (initiated by patients) and insurance (initiated by oncologists). Younger patients and patients with more perceived social support satisfaction were more likely to discuss cost. Patient age interacted with amount of social support to affect frequency of cost discussions within interactions. Younger patients with more social support had more cost discussions; older patients with more social support had fewer cost discussions. CONCLUSION Cost discussions occurred in fewer than one half of the interactions and most commonly focused on the impact of the diagnosis on patients' opportunity costs rather than treatment costs. Implications for ASCO's Value Framework and design of interventions to improve cost discussions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Hamel
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Louis A Penner
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Susan Eggly
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Robert Chapman
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Justin F Klamerus
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Michael S Simon
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Sarah C E Stanton
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Terrance L Albrecht
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University and Josephine Ford Cancer Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
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41
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Paul C, Boyes A, Hall A, Bisquera A, Miller A, O’Brien L. The impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment on employment, income, treatment decisions and financial assistance and their relationship to socioeconomic and disease factors. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:4739-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3323-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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42
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Azzani M, Roslani AC, Su TT. Financial burden of colorectal cancer treatment among patients and their families in a middle-income country. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:4423-32. [PMID: 27225528 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3283-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Malaysia, the healthcare system consists of a government-run universal healthcare system and a co-existing private healthcare system. However, with high and ever rising healthcare spending on cancer management, cancer patients and their families are likely to become vulnerable to a healthcare-related financial burden. Moreover, they may have to reduce their working hours and lose income. To better understand this issue, this study aims to assess the financial burden of colorectal cancer patients and their families in the first year following diagnosis. METHODS Data on patient costs were collected prospectively in the first year following diagnosis by using a self-administered questionnaire and telephone interviews at three time points for all four stages of colorectal cancer. The patient cost data consisted of direct out-of-pocket payments for medical-related expenses such as hospital stays, tests and treatment and for non-medical items such as travel and food associated with hospital visits. In addition, indirect cost data related to the loss of productivity of the patient and caregiver(s) was assessed. The patient's perceived level of financial difficulty and types of coping strategy were also explored. RESULT The total 1-year patient cost (both direct and indirect) increased with the stage of colorectal cancer: RM 6544.5 (USD 2045.1) for stage I, RM 7790.1 (USD 2434.4) for stage II, RM 8799.1 (USD 2749.7) for stage III and RM 8638.2 (USD 2699.4) for stage IV. The majority of patients perceived paying for their healthcare as somewhat difficult. The most frequently used financial coping strategy was a combination of current income and savings. CONCLUSION Despite the high subsidisation in public hospitals, the management of colorectal cancer imposes a substantial financial burden on patients and their families. Moreover, the majority of patients and their families perceive healthcare payments as difficult. Therefore, it is recommended that policy- and decision-makers should further consider some financial protection strategies and support for cancer treatment because cancer is a very costly and chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meram Azzani
- Centre for Population Health (CePH), Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - April Camilla Roslani
- University of Malaya Cancer Research Institute (UMCRI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tin Tin Su
- Centre for Population Health (CePH), Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Stevenson MA, Abbott DE. Societal responsibility and moral hazard: How much are we willing to pay for quality-adjusted life? J Surg Oncol 2016; 114:269-74. [PMID: 27074976 DOI: 10.1002/jso.24263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Health care spending in the United States continues to rise with cancer care consuming a disproportionate amount of that spending. As the US population ages and cancer treatment options become more complex, cost containment strategies have become essential in oncology. Patient-centered decision-making will help to contain costs but requires a well-informed patient who is able to reconcile potential treatment choices with their beliefs and values. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:269-274. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A Stevenson
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Daniel E Abbott
- Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Gonçalves A, Maraninchi D, Marino P. [Anticancer drugs: Which prices for therapeutic innovations?]. Bull Cancer 2016; 103:361-7. [PMID: 27045535 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The expanding knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying tumor development made it possible the recent emergence of new therapeutic approaches that are considered as undoubtedly innovative. Yet, to define and to evaluate the magnitude of a drug innovation require an examination of its intrinsic drug properties, medical utility as well as its mode of emergence. Recently, international academic societies, such as ESMO and ASCO, have proposed practical tools that may help quantifying the medical value of a given innovation. Currently, the sustained flux of therapeutic innovations in oncology is associated with an unprecedented growth of costs, the actual determinants of which remain under debate, but raising the critical issue of drugs pricing, and their potential individual or societal "financial toxicity".
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Gonçalves
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille (institut Paoli-Calmettes, Inserm 1068, CNRS 7258, Aix-Marseille université), 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, 13284 Marseille, France.
| | - Dominique Maraninchi
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille (institut Paoli-Calmettes, Inserm 1068, CNRS 7258, Aix-Marseille université), 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, 13284 Marseille, France
| | - Patricia Marino
- Aix-Marseille université, 13284 Marseille, France; Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Inserm UMR912 SESSTIM, 13009 Marseille, France
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Lee JA, Roehrig CS, Butto ED. Cancer care cost trends in the United States: 1998 to 2012. Cancer 2016; 122:1078-84. [PMID: 26773823 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.29883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors examine trends in spending on cancer from 1998 through 2012, including cancer care costs, prevalence, and cases by payer, and discuss the results within the context of a prior analysis and recent health policy and programmatic changes. METHODS Condition-specific distribution of expenditures from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, supplemented with results from the National Nursing Home Survey and other data sources, was used as the basis for allocating the Personal Health Care components of the National Health Expenditure Accounts among conditions. RESULTS Cancer care expenditures grew at an annualized rate of 2.9% from 1998 to 2012. The share of expenditures for hospital-based care declined to a low of 48% during 2007 through 2009. Professional and clinical services' shares declined substantially between 2007 to 2009 and 2010 to 2012 when the hospital share increased. Treated prevalence decreased for all payers between the first and last study periods with the exception of private payers (11.2% increase). Out-of-pocket expenditures declined to 4.7%, whereas Medicare's share increased slightly. Medication expenditures increased, notably within retail and mail order settings. CONCLUSIONS The previous rapid growth of cancer prevalence and expenditures has now slowed, most remarkably since the 2007 recession. Out-of-pocket expenses for cancer treatment continue to decline, most recently reaching the lowest point in 25 years. In addition, the early effects of Affordable Care Act expansion can be observed in the decline of treated prevalence in the Medicaid population as the demographics of Medicaid enrollees change.
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46
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Zafar SY. Financial Toxicity of Cancer Care: It's Time to Intervene. J Natl Cancer Inst 2015; 108:djv370. [PMID: 26657334 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djv370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 293] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that a considerably large proportion of cancer patients are affected by treatment-related financial harm. As medical debt grows for some with cancer, the downstream effects can be catastrophic, with a recent study suggesting a link between extreme financial distress and worse mortality. At least three factors might explain the relationship between extreme financial distress and greater risk of mortality: 1) overall poorer well-being, 2) impaired health-related quality of life, and 3) sub-par quality of care. While research has described the financial harm associated with cancer treatment, little has been done to effectively intervene on the problem. Long-term solutions must focus on policy changes to reduce unsustainable drug prices and promote innovative insurance models. In the mean time, patients continue to struggle with high out-of-pocket costs. For more immediate solutions, we should look to the oncologist and patient. Oncologists should focus on the value of care delivered, encourage patient engagement on the topic of costs, and be better educated on financial resources available to patients. For their part, patients need improved cost-related health literacy so they are aware of potential costs and resources, and research should focus on how patients define high-value care. With a growing list of financial side effects induced by cancer treatment, the time has come to intervene on the "financial toxicity" of cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Yousuf Zafar
- Duke Cancer Institute; Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC.
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47
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Yabroff KR, Dowling EC, Guy GP, Banegas MP, Davidoff A, Han X, Virgo KS, McNeel TS, Chawla N, Blanch-Hartigan D, Kent EE, Li C, Rodriguez JL, de Moor JS, Zheng Z, Jemal A, Ekwueme DU. Financial Hardship Associated With Cancer in the United States: Findings From a Population-Based Sample of Adult Cancer Survivors. J Clin Oncol 2015; 34:259-67. [PMID: 26644532 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2015.62.0468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 362] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the prevalence of financial hardship associated with cancer in the United States and identify characteristics of cancer survivors associated with financial hardship. METHODS We identified 1,202 adult cancer survivors diagnosed or treated at ≥ 18 years of age from the 2011 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Experiences With Cancer questionnaire. Material financial hardship was measured by ever (1) borrowing money or going into debt, (2) filing for bankruptcy, (3) being unable to cover one's share of medical care costs, or (4) making other financial sacrifices because of cancer, its treatment, and lasting effects of treatment. Psychological financial hardship was measured as ever worrying about paying large medical bills. We examined factors associated with any material or psychological financial hardship using separate multivariable logistic regression models stratified by age group (18 to 64 and ≥ 65 years). RESULTS Material financial hardship was more common in cancer survivors age 18 to 64 years than in those ≥ 65 years of age (28.4% v 13.8%; P < .001), as was psychological financial hardship (31.9% v 14.7%, P < .001). In adjusted analyses, cancer survivors age 18 to 64 years who were younger, female, nonwhite, and treated more recently and who had changed employment because of cancer were significantly more likely to report any material financial hardship. Cancer survivors who were uninsured, had lower family income, and were treated more recently were more likely to report psychological financial hardship. Among cancer survivors ≥ 65 years of age, those who were younger were more likely to report any financial hardship. CONCLUSION Cancer survivors, especially the working-age population, commonly experience material and psychological financial hardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Robin Yabroff
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA.
| | - Emily C Dowling
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Gery P Guy
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Matthew P Banegas
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Amy Davidoff
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Xuesong Han
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Katherine S Virgo
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Timothy S McNeel
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Neetu Chawla
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Danielle Blanch-Hartigan
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Erin E Kent
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Chunyu Li
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Juan L Rodriguez
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Janet S de Moor
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Zhiyuan Zheng
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Ahmedin Jemal
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
| | - Donatus U Ekwueme
- K. Robin Yabroff, Matthew P. Banegas, Neetu Chawla, Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Erin E. Kent, and Janet S. de Moor, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda; Timothy S. McNeel, Information Management Services, Calverton, MD; Emily C. Dowling, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston; Danielle Blanch-Hartigan, Bentley University, Waltham, MA; Gery P. Guy Jr, Chunyu Li, Juan L. Rodriguez, and Donatus U. Ekwueme, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Xuesong Han, Zhiyuan Zheng, and Ahmedin Jemal, American Cancer Society; Katherine S. Virgo, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Amy Davidoff, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT; and Neetu Chawla, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA
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48
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Gordon LG, Walker SM, Mervin MC, Lowe A, Smith DP, Gardiner RA, Chambers SK. Financial toxicity: a potential side effect of prostate cancer treatment among Australian men. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2015; 26. [PMID: 26423576 PMCID: PMC5297983 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to understand the extent, nature and variability of the current economic burden of prostate cancer among Australian men. An online cross‐sectional survey was developed that combined pre‐existing economic measures and new questions. With few exceptions, the online survey was viable and acceptable to participants. The main outcomes were self‐reported out‐of‐pocket costs of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, changes in employment status and household finances. Men were recruited from prostate cancer support groups throughout Australia. Descriptive statistical analyses were undertaken. A total of 289 men responded to the survey during April and June 2013. Our study found that men recently diagnosed (within 16 months of the survey) (n = 65) reported spending a median AU$8000 (interquartile range AU$14 000) for their cancer treatment while 75% of men spent up to AU$17 000 (2012). Twenty per cent of all men found the cost of treating their prostate cancer caused them ‘a great deal’ of distress. The findings suggest a large variability in medical costs for prostate cancer treatment with 5% of men spending $250 or less in out‐of‐pocket expenses and some men facing very high costs. On average, respondents in paid employment at diagnosis stated that they had retired 4–5 years earlier than planned.
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Affiliation(s)
- L G Gordon
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Logan City, Qld, Australia
| | - S M Walker
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Logan City, Qld, Australia
| | - M C Mervin
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Logan City, Qld, Australia
| | - A Lowe
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, Qld, Australia
| | - D P Smith
- Cancer Council New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - R A Gardiner
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - S K Chambers
- Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,School of Allied Health, Menzies Health Institute of Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Southport, Qld, Australia.,Cancer Council Queensland, Spring Hill, Qld, Australia
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49
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Delgado-Guay M, Ferrer J, Rieber AG, Rhondali W, Tayjasanant S, Ochoa J, Cantu H, Chisholm G, Williams J, Frisbee-Hume S, Bruera E. Financial Distress and Its Associations With Physical and Emotional Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Advanced Cancer Patients. Oncologist 2015. [PMID: 26205738 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2015-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are limited data on the effects of financial distress (FD) on overall suffering and quality of life (QOL) of patients with advanced cancer (AdCa). In this cross-sectional study, we examined the frequency of FD and its correlates in AdCa. PATIENTS AND METHODS We interviewed 149 patients, 77 at a comprehensive cancer center (CCC) and 72 at a general public hospital (GPH). AdCa completed a self-rated FD (subjective experience of distress attributed to financial problems) numeric rating scale (0 = best, 10 = worst) and validated questionnaires assessing symptoms (Edmonton Symptom Assessment System [ESAS]), psychosocial distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]), and QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General [FACT-G]). RESULTS The patients' median age was 60 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.6-61.5 years); 74 (50%) were female; 48 of 77 at CCC (62%) versus 13 of 72 at GPH (18%) were white; 21 of 77 (27%) versus 32 of 72 (38%) at CCC and GPH, respectively, were black; and 7 of 77 (9%) versus 27 of 72 (38%) at CCC and GPH, respectively, were Hispanic (p < .0001). FD was present in 65 of 75 at CCC (86%; 95% CI: 76%-93%) versus 65 of 72 at GPH (90%; 95% CI: 81%-96%; p = .45). The median intensity of FD at CCC and GPH was 4 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1-7) versus 8 (IQR: 3-10), respectively (p = .0003). FD was reported as more severe than physical distress, distress about physical functioning, social/family distress, and emotional distress by 45 (30%), 46 (31%), 64 (43%), and 55 (37%) AdCa, respectively (all significantly worse for patients at GPH) (p < .05). AdCa reported that FD was affecting their general well-being (0 = not at all, 10 = very much) with a median score of 5 (IQR: 1-8). FD correlated (Spearman correlation) with FACT-G (r = -0.23, p = .0057); HADS-anxiety (r = .27, p = .0014), ESAS-anxiety (r = .2, p = .0151), and ESAS-depression (r = .18, p = .0336). CONCLUSION FD was very frequent in both groups, but median intensity was double among GPH patients. More than 30% of AdCa rated FD to be more severe than physical, family, and emotional distress. More research is needed to better characterize FD and its correlates in AdCa and possible interventions. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Financial distress is an important and common factor contributing to the suffering of advanced cancer patients and their caregivers. It should be suspected in patients with persistent, refractory symptom expression. Early identification, measurement, and documentation will allow clinical teams to develop interventions to improve financial distress and its impact on quality of life of advanced cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marvin Delgado-Guay
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jeanette Ferrer
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Alyssa G Rieber
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Wadih Rhondali
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Supakarn Tayjasanant
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jewel Ochoa
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Hilda Cantu
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Gary Chisholm
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Janet Williams
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Susan Frisbee-Hume
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Departments of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, General Oncology, and Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA; The University of Texas Health Science, Medical School, Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Lyndon B. Johnson General Hospital, Harris Health System, Houston, Texas, USA; Centre de Soins Palliatifs, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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50
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Nipp RD, Zullig LL, Samsa G, Peppercorn JM, Schrag D, Taylor DH, Abernethy AP, Zafar SY. Identifying cancer patients who alter care or lifestyle due to treatment‐related financial distress. Psychooncology 2015; 25:719-25. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.3911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2014] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leah L. Zullig
- Center for Health Services Research in Primary CareDurham Veterans Affairs Medical Center Durham NC USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of MedicineDuke University Durham NC USA
| | - Gregory Samsa
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of MedicineDUMC Durham NC USA
| | | | | | | | - Amy P. Abernethy
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of MedicineDUMC Durham NC USA
| | - S. Yousuf Zafar
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of MedicineDUMC Durham NC USA
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