The Financial Toxicity of Endometriosis: Unseen Costs and Policy Gaps

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 Canadians; however, its financial toxicity remains poorly understood. While universal health care covers physician and hospital services, patients face substantial out-of-pocket costs for medications, complementary therapies, fertility treatments, travel, and childcare. These burdens delay care, limit treatment, and worsen disparities. International evidence underscores the magnitude of these costs, but Canada lacks patient-level data to guide interventions. This commentary highlights manifestations of financial strain and calls for quantitative assessment and policy reform, including pharmacare, universal fertility coverage, and complementary therapy access, to ensure timely, comprehensive care nationwide.