Understanding cancer survivor cost communication experiences and preferences

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Economics
• Patient-Centered Care

Background:

• Cost discussions between cancer patients and providers are linked to reduced out-of-pocket expenses.
• Patient perspectives on these financial conversations remain largely unexamined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient experiences and preferences regarding cost communication during cancer care.
• To identify optimal timing and methods for discussing treatment expenses with cancer survivors.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 20 cancer survivors (aged 26-60, within 5 years of diagnosis).
• Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using iterative content analysis.

Main Results:

• Most survivors (65%) preferred discussing costs after diagnosis but before treatment initiation.
• A significant majority (90%) desired family involvement in cost discussions.
• 60% favored oncologists considering out-of-pocket costs during treatment planning to aid financial management and reduce anxiety.

Conclusions:

• Cancer patient preferences for cost communication are highly individualized.
• There is a need for methods to assess patient preferences for cost discussions in cancer care.
• Addressing these preferences is crucial for managing financial challenges faced by cancer survivors.