Cost of lung cancer diagnosis: cost differences between national health system and private sector

Introduction: Lung cancer is still diagnosed at an advanced stage due to lack of early disease symptoms. Areas covered: We have techniques and equipment for rapid on site evaluation of pulmonary lesions. However, with new technology or a combination of technologies in the diagnostic suite the cost of biopsy is rising. Expert opinion: The cost of diagnostic equipment and tools differ between the national health system and private sector. This is due to the economic crisis that our country entered in 2008. The costs for every procedure for lung cancer has not been updated for more than 15 years, and therefore in several cases the reimbursement for the hospitals is lower for both national and private sector.