To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an online tool (FinCare) designed to estimate patient-specific out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for cancer therapy.
Approach:
Study Participants: Patients receiving treatment from a comprehensive cancer center who were starting a new regimen of intravenous anti-cancer therapy were recruited. Exclusions included those receiving neo-adjuvant therapy, participating in clinical trials, or covered under multiple insurance plans.
Key Findings:
42% of cancer patients report significant financial burden.
Financial toxicity is linked to distress, treatment delays, and poorer clinical outcomes.
Patients often lack access to information about OOP costs, complicating treatment decisions.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the need for tools like FinCare to assist patients in understanding their financial responsibilities related to cancer treatment.
Limitations:
The pilot study was limited to patients with Independence Blue Cross PPO insurance.
The tool was only tested for intravenous anti-cancer therapies.
Conclusion:
FinCare may provide valuable assistance in estimating OOP costs for cancer therapy, addressing a significant gap in patient support.
