Many cancer patients forgoing care because of cost

The costs of cancer treatment and associated drugs is rising as we all know. We are pouring money into R and D as fast as we can, and yes that does cost money, but insurers are making it hard to get insurance coverage and somewhere along the line you need to have a drug that is affordable as well. As costs rise, the percentage for the patient continues to grow, and don’t forget the cost of the premiums as well.

Some manufacturers have worked with consumers on cost, while with others there has not been much relief. The model keeps continuing to grow as from the development side it is not inexpensive either. If the continued process keeps going, pretty soon cancer drugs may be further out of reach for many. Cost for the drugs coupled with how risk management is handled by the insurance companies are the 2 big factors that frustrate all of us. BD

At a time when they're already fighting for their lives, more cancer patients are now struggling to pay for their medicines. One in eight people with advanced cancer turned down recommended care because of the cost, according to a new analysis from Thomson Reuters, which provides news and business information. Among patients with incomes under $40,000, one in four in advanced stages of the disease refused treatment.

Many of the medical advances that allow cancer patients to live longer come at a high cost, says Joseph Singer of HealthCore, a Delaware-based health research company.

Study: Many cancer patients forgoing care because of cost - USATODAY.com