Financial Burden on Cancer Patients: High Out-of-Pocket Costs Post-Diagnosis

A recent study highlights the significant financial challenges faced by patients diagnosed with cancer, with out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) rising sharply after initial diagnosis. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, finds that patients experience an average increase of nearly $593 per month in medical expenses during the first six months following diagnosis. Notably, the costs escalate with the stage of cancer at diagnosis, ranging from approximately $462 for early-stage (stage 0) to nearly $720 for advanced stages (stage 4).

Liam Rose, Ph.D., and colleagues from Stanford University conducted a comprehensive retrospective cohort study involving over 46,000 privately insured individuals under 65 years old, including patients with breast, colorectal, and lung cancers. The study compared their expenses to those of a control group without cancer. Findings emphasized that more advanced cancers correlate with higher out-of-pocket costs, underscoring the financial strain imposed on patients.

The authors suggest that policies such as paid sick leave and enhanced financial assistance could help alleviate some of these burdens, especially for those with late-stage cancer. Addressing insurance continuity and out-of-pocket expenses is crucial for supporting patients during this challenging time.

This research provides vital insights into the economic impact of cancer diagnosis and highlights the need for comprehensive policies to reduce financial toxicity for patients. source