The Financial Treatment Program: Reducing financial toxicity with financial navigation and direct cash assistance

Financial toxicity (FT) is linked to adverse health outcomes and increased mortality. Financial navigation with direct financial relief is a promising clinical intervention.

This sequential explanatory study evaluated Financial Treatment Program (FTP) in patients with incomes ≤400% of federal poverty line. We assessed pre- to post-intervention change in FT, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), anxiety and depression, and interviewed an intensity sample of participants to understand factors influencing FTP success.

152 patients enrolled, 109 completed baseline and follow-up with significant improvements in FT, physical functioning HRQOL, and anxiety. 21 interviews yielded three themes: (1) cumulative stressors and disadvantage; (2) social support and asking for and receiving help; (3) disappointment in and difficulty accessing assistance and public benefits.

FTP was associated with significant improvements in FT and anxiety. Participants with greatest benefit had more practical support from friends, family, and employers. Participants valued FTP's personalized care and found it easier to engage with than other financial assistance and government benefit programs.

Clinical FT interventions are necessary but may be limited in severe FT, which is driven by structural inequities in employment and income protections. Policy efforts are also needed.