According to data from an online survey summarized at the 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting, despite believing cost of cancer care should be discussed in the clinic, most hematologists/oncologists surveyed did not do so.

Ahmed Bilal Khalid, MD, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN and investigators noted that with the cost of cancer care rising, it is important for physicians to be mindful of financial toxicity to their patients. There are few reports on oncologist’s preparedness, current practice, and barriers in discussing costs with their patients.

An online survey was administered to hematology/oncology faculty physicians and fellows at the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center. The main objective was to collect data assessing the attitudes on communication about cost of cancer care and awareness around financial toxicity of cancer therapy. 

The survey included questions regarding physician perception on patient’s attitudes towards cost discussion in clinics, current state of cost discussion in their clinic and their preparedness on having this discussion in the future.

Results demonstrated that 27 out of 48 (56%) fellows and faculty members completed the survey. All respondents believed cost communication is associated with improved patient outcomes and 82% believed cost communication is desired by most patients. 

Among the 27 respondents, 22 (81%) indicated cost of care were discussed in less than half of patient encounters, and 81% also believed clear communication about cost should be a part of the patient’s clinic visit. Twenty-six out of 27 respondents (96%) believed that knowing the cost of therapy and the out-of-pocket cost would change the way they practice, while 74% reported that not knowing the cost of cancer care themselves was the greatest barrier behind not discussing costs.

“Physician education on cost of cancer care and patient out-of-pocket costs is greatly needed,” concluded Dr Khalid and colleagues. 

Source: 

Khalid Ahmed Bilal, Urrutia Samuel, Hanna Nasser H., et al. Communication about cost of cancer care: Attitudes and practices of oncologists. Abstract presented at: ASCO Annual Meeting; June 3-7, 2022; Chicago, IL, and virtual. Abstract e18826.