

Further, 1.4% filed for bankruptcy.Īdditionally, 20.9% of patients reported that they worried about how they would pay large medical bills, and 11.5% reported that they could not pay for medical care visits. Overall, 28.7% of the survivors reported experiencing financial burden in at least one area specified by the researchers (one financial problem, 15.8% two financial problems, 7.2% three financial problems, 4.1% four financial problems, 1.5%).Ī total of 7.6% of cancer survivors reported borrowing money 4.2% reported borrowing less than $10,000, whereas 3% reported that they borrowed $10,000 or more. They also evaluated data on depressed mood, psychological distress and fear of cancer recurrence. Researchers evaluated respondents’ quality of life using the Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS) of the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Kale and Carroll considered respondents to be financially burdened if they reported borrowing money or declaring bankruptcy worried about how they would pay large medical bills were unable to pay the costs of medical care visits or reported making other financial sacrifices. Carroll, PhD, professor of pharmacy administration at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy, analyzed data from 19.6 million cancer survivors who completed the 2011 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey - which included a self-reported patient questionnaire - to determine whether a link existed between cancer-related financial hardship and health-related quality of life.

Other studies have shown that cancer survivors are at greater risk for bankruptcy than the general population. This puts their physical and mental health at risk.” It has been well-established in the literature that because of high out-of-pocket costs, many cancer survivors forgo or delay medical care and mental health-related services and avoid filling prescriptions. “Along with high medical expenses, cancer survivors face problems such as loss of employment and reduced productivity. Kale, MS, a doctoral candidate in pharmacoecomonics and health outcomes at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy, told HemOnc Today. “The cost of cancer care is extremely high, and it is escalating every year,” Hrishikesh P.

If you continue to have this issue please contact to HealioĬancer survivors with a high disease-related financial burden appeared more susceptible to depression, poor quality of life and fear of recurrence, according to the results of cross-sectional study.
