Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Patient Care. In this article, we delve into Financial Toxicity in Cancer Care, exploring the latest advancements and essential information.
Financial toxicity describes the severe financial hardship and distress a patient experiences due to the high costs of cancer treatment, including copays, out-of-pocket expenses, and lost income from being unable to work.
It can have serious medical consequences. Patients may skip doses of medication, delay appointments, or abandon treatment altogether because they cannot afford it. The resulting stress also negatively impacts physical and mental recovery.
Patients should speak with an oncology social worker or financial navigator at their treatment center. These professionals can connect patients with co-pay assistance programs, non-profit foundations, and resources to help manage medical bills.