OBJECTIVES: Although patients with cancer often face serious financial hardships, few studies have reported on strategies to mitigate this burden. Improving literacy about the financial aspects of cancer care may decrease the negative financial impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment. We obtained input from patient stakeholders on the perceived value and optimal design of a financial literacy program in the advanced cancer setting. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort survey. METHODS: A series of semi-structured interviews were conducted, during which patients with either colorectal or breast cancer were asked to describe the impact of cancer on their finances and employment, to state their preferences about discussing costs with their providers, and to give input on development of a financial literacy course. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients (76% Caucasian) completed interviews, the majority of whom had Medicare or commercial insurance (71%). Lost income from early retirement or disability was the most financially burdensome experience for 67% of patients. The majority of patients (76%) reported that a financial literacy course would be helpful in navigating the cost of cancer care. Most preferred the course be administered at diagnosis in a live group format. CONCLUSIONS: Feedback from patients with cancer supported the development of a group financial literacy course that addresses barriers to discussing cost concerns, employment changes during cancer, and available resources for financial assistance.
OBJECTIVES: Although patients with cancer often face serious financial hardships, few studies have reported on strategies to mitigate this burden. Improving literacy about the financial aspects of cancer care may decrease the negative financial impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment. We obtained input from patient stakeholders on the perceived value and optimal design of a financial literacy program in the advanced cancer setting. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort survey. METHODS: A series of semi-structured interviews were conducted, during which patients with either colorectal or breast cancer were asked to describe the impact of cancer on their finances and employment, to state their preferences about discussing costs with their providers, and to give input on development of a financial literacy course. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients (76% Caucasian) completed interviews, the majority of whom had Medicare or commercial insurance (71%). Lost income from early retirement or disability was the most financially burdensome experience for 67% of patients. The majority of patients (76%) reported that a financial literacy course would be helpful in navigating the cost of cancer care. Most preferred the course be administered at diagnosis in a live group format. CONCLUSIONS: Feedback from patients with cancer supported the development of a group financial literacy course that addresses barriers to discussing cost concerns, employment changes during cancer, and available resources for financial assistance.
Authors: Nandita Khera; Ashok Kumbamu; Shelby L Langer; Aminah Jatoi; Celia C Kamath; Elizabeth Mathew; Yousuf S Zafar; Joan M Griffin Journal: Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes Date: 2020-07-15
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Authors: Nandita Khera; Nan Zhang; Talal Hilal; Urshila Durani; Minji Lee; Rema Padman; Sandeep Voleti; Rahma M Warsame; Bijan J Borah; K Robin Yabroff; Joan M Griffin Journal: JAMA Netw Open Date: 2022-07-01
Authors: Megan E V Caram; Mary K Oerline; Stacie Dusetzina; Lindsey A Herrel; Parth K Modi; Samuel R Kaufman; Ted A Skolarus; Brent K Hollenbeck; Vahakn Shahinian Journal: Cancer Date: 2020-09-14 Impact factor: 6.860