Most colorectal patients report financial burden due to treatment

the Oncology Nurse Advisor take:

The burden of cancer and its treatment goes beyond the obvious medical and physical challenges. Many patients experience significant financial hardship as well. Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center conducted a study on the financial burden of colorectal cancer.

They surveyed 956 patients identified through the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results cancer registries for the Metro Detroit area and the stage of Georgia. The patients were asked to complete a seven-question survey that asked whether they employed such financial strategies as using savings, borrowing money, skipping bill payments, or cutting back on expenses (eg, food, clothing, or recreational activities).

Overall, 62% of respondents indicated areas of burdens, based on the seven questions. More specifically, the study demonstrated that younger patients who worked in low-paying jobs and those who received chemotherapy were most likely to endure financial burdens.

Based on their findings, the researchers advocate changes to job-related policies that would allow patients to focus on adhering to their treatments, and provide support for both copays and nonmedical expenses related to getting to treatment appointments. Most importantly, however, the researchers encourage clinicians to openly discuss financial situations and support options with patients.