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New ASCO Guide Helps Patients and Doctors Communicate About High Cost of Cancer Care


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 5, 2009

CONTACT:
Jenny Heumann
571-483-1354
jenny.heumann@asco.org

Dan Sweet
571-483-1355
dan.sweet@asco.org

Alexandria, Va. – The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) today released a guide to help patients and doctors communicate about the costs associated with cancer care. The booklet, available online at www.cancer.net/managingcostofcare, includes tools to help patients talk with their doctors about managing the cost of cancer care, a summary of the costs associated with treatment, and a list of financial resources for patients in need of assistance.

Recent research shows that the cost of cancer care is increasing at a rate of 15 percent per year – nearly three times the rate of increase of overall healthcare costs in the country. In addition, the newest cancer drugs can cost thousands of dollars per month of treatment, and many families report problems paying their cancer care bills.

“Our goal as doctors is to provide our patients with the best medicine possible based on the best science available, but the cost of care is starting to creep into the exam room and affect the treatment decisions we make with our patients,” said Richard L. Schilsky, MD, ASCO president and professor of medicine at the University of Chicago Medical Center. “Helping doctors and their patients navigate the difficult and often emotional issues surrounding the cost of cancer care is a top priority for ASCO.

ASCO’s patient guide includes:

  • A list of questions that patients can ask their doctors about health care costs, including costs associated with medication and treatment, doctor visits, and associated expenses such as transportation, other living expenses, and long-term care.
  • Information on resources for patients who have employment or health insurance problems related to their cancer treatment.
  • Tips for organizing bills and expenses related to the cost of cancer treatment.
  • A list of financial resources available to people with cancer.
  • A glossary of cancer treatment and financial terms.
“Understanding what costs to expect before starting treatment can help patients manage the financial impact of cancer in the most effective way possible,” Dr. Schilsky said.

The patient guide is one element of ASCO’s organization-wide effort to address the burden of high cancer care costs on patients and doctors. ASCO’s Cost of Cancer Care Task Force, made up of leading oncologists and including representation from the patient advocacy community, is developing guidance on actions that physicians can take to address the problem and recommending potential policy solutions.

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The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is the world’s leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer. With more than 27,000 members, ASCO is committed to improving cancer care through scientific meetings, educational programs and peer-reviewed journals. For ASCO information and resources, visit www.asco.org/presscenter. Patient-oriented cancer information is available at www.cancer.net.





 
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