Adela Perolla
Hospital Centre “Mother Teresa”, Service of Hematology, AlbaniaPresentation Title:
Financial toxicity in hematology: The unseen burden and the path forward
Abstract
In our ongoing endeavor to
understand and combat hematological disorders, a significant aspect often goes
under-discussed: the weighty financial burden faced by patients. Despite
extensive research and medical advancements, the financial hardship associated
with these conditions continues to present an unmet need within our specialty.
Direct medical costs associated
with hematological disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma can be
staggering. These expenses can encompass specialist consultations, exhaustive
diagnostic procedures, hospital stays, and costly treatments like chemotherapy,
immunotherapy, and targeted therapies (Gordon et al., 2017). For patients
without extensive health insurance coverage or those living in regions without
universal healthcare, these costs can be overwhelming. However, even insured
patients often confront substantial out-of-pocket expenses due to copayments,
deductibles, and limitations in coverage (Zafar et al., 2013).
Yet, medical costs represent only
one facet of the problem. Indirect costs related to loss of income, need for
professional assistance, frequent travel for medical appointments, and
adjustments in dietary needs can significantly increase the financial strain on
patients and their families (American Society of Hematology, 2021). Cumulatively, these burdens lead
to 'financial toxicity' – the distress caused by high medical and living costs,
which has been shown to negatively impact patients' mental health and overall
quality of life (Fenn et al., 2014). As medical professionals, it is incumbent
upon us to address this issue, extending our care beyond the physical to
encompass the financial wellbeing of our patients.
To do this, we need to advocate
for policy reforms to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, expand coverage for
innovative treatments, and improve access to disability benefits. Building
robust support networks to aid patients in navigating the complex world of
insurance and financial planning is also crucial (Ramsey et al., 2016). The financial burdens associated
with hematological disorders are substantial and warrant immediate attention.
They are not mere side issues but significant obstacles that can affect
treatment adherence, mental wellbeing, and patient outcomes. This growing
crisis should not be the patients' burden alone. As a medical community, we
need to broaden our focus to include the economic implications of their
diagnosis.
Future research must prioritize
understanding the economic impact of hematological disorders and the
effectiveness of potential mitigating strategies. By doing so, we can develop a
more holistic approach to patient care – one that extends beyond the biological
and therapeutic aspects of these diseases. This shift requires a collective
effort from researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and patient advocates. In the end, our
ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for our patients. By addressing
financial toxicity, we will be making significant strides towards this goal.
Biography
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