A cancer diagnosis is as life-threatening as it is financially burdening. The cost of care often accumulates to an excessive amount as a result of hospital bills, temporary loss of earnings, and the growing minimum payment for prescription medication. A 2018 report by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) recorded a total of about $5.6 billion spent in out-of-pocket payments for cancer treatment among U.S. cancer patients. Within the next decade, the national cost of care is projected to exceed $246 billion, according to the same 2018 report. The growing expenses for such extensive treatment damages the livelihoods of the uninsured, of whom typically consist of marginalized communities. This pattern can be seen internationally.
Based on a scientific review paper by Mattila et al, the lack of medical assistance revolves around the lack of affordability and availability. According to World Health Organization (WHO), around 70% of cancer-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries as these countries also experience a lower national income. Within these low income countries, the absence of government funding and insurance often places the sole responsibility of such payments to the individual or their loved ones. Another underlying factor contributing to affordability issues is the variation in prices controlled by private enterprises. The larger issue at heart is the lack of legislative recognition of income inequality and necessity for medical support for all families.
Medicine’s Financial Burdens
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Alleviating costs can thus improve generational wealth within diagnosed families and improve the economic status of marginalized groups. Legislation such as the Affordable Care Act have combated the financial stress of cancer treatment by supporting some families with fully or partially funded medical insurance. Some pharmaceutical groups have even formed programs such as the Patients Assistance Programs (PAPs) intended to lower the cost of medication. Different payment plans or coverages also add an extra sense of security to those unable to pay more consistent and hefty amounts for insurance. In addition to the ongoing advancements with cancer research, it is equally important to increase affordability for treatment of this life-threatening disease.
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