A new study led by the American Cancer Society (ACS) reveals the enduring financial impact of a cancer diagnosis on working-age adults and their families in the United States. The study shows that a cancer diagnosis and the subsequent treatment can lead to disruptions in employment, loss of household income, and loss of employment-based health insurance coverage, resulting in financial hardship. Nearly 60% of working-age cancer survivors report at least one type of financial hardship, such as being unable to afford medical bills or delaying needed care due to costs. The findings are published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians.
Lead study author Dr. Robin Yabroff emphasizes that while the rising costs of cancer care and associated financial hardship are well-documented in the US, the impact on employment and household income has received little attention. With almost half of cancer survivors not yet eligible for Medicare coverage, understanding how cancer diagnosis and treatment can affect employment, income, and access to health insurance is crucial. The study used a composite patient case to illustrate the potential consequences of a cancer diagnosis, including employment disruptions, loss of income, and loss of health insurance coverage.
The researchers utilized nationally representative estimates from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) from 2019-2021 to highlight the financial hardships experienced by cancer survivors. This survey collects data on health conditions, employment, insurance coverage, and socioeconomic status, providing insights into the challenges faced by individuals affected by cancer. The study calls for a collaborative effort from stakeholders to address financial hardship and support patients and families affected by cancer.
According to Dr. Yabroff, federal, state, and local policies can play a crucial role in reducing financial hardship for cancer patients. Recommendations include increasing availability of comprehensive and affordable health insurance coverage and ensuring job protections for working adults. The study underscores the importance of access to affordable and quality care, as well as paid family medical leave, in alleviating the financial burden on cancer patients, particularly those of working age.
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) president Lisa Lacasse stresses the need for Congress to enact paid family and medical leave and provide affordable health coverage options outside of employer-sponsored plans. Many cancer patients are forced to miss work due to their illness, highlighting the urgency of implementing measures to protect patients from the high costs associated with cancer care. Employers, cancer care organizations, and non-profit groups can also contribute to efforts aimed at helping patients navigate financial challenges associated with cancer treatment.
Employers can offer comprehensive coverage, paid leave, and workplace accommodations to support employees undergoing cancer treatment. Cancer care providers can screen patients for financial hardships, connect them with relevant services, and provide referrals for rehabilitation care to facilitate a return to work after treatment. The study underscores the importance of a coordinated approach involving multiple stakeholders to assist patients in managing the financial implications of a cancer diagnosis.
