2023-11-21 01:00:00
Text/Healthcare Network/Reported by reporter Wang Guanting
Taiwan’s health insurance is highly praised internationally. However, as new drugs are introduced one following another, not only the payment pace of new drugs has slowed down, but the payment conditions have also become increasingly stringent, forcing many patients to bear huge treatment expenses out of their own pocket. In addition to the disease itself, high drug bills once once more pose another “economic poison” to patients and their families. This situation, described by experts as “financial toxicity,” has made the long road to recovery even longer and has aroused widespread concern.
▲A new report in the Journal of Clinical Oncology points out that measuring financial toxicity for patients with advanced cancer can help reduce their financial burden.
Measuring financial toxicity and reducing financial stress in cancer patients
A new report in the Journal of Clinical Oncology suggests that measuring financial toxicity for patients with advanced cancer might help reduce their financial burden. Regularly tracking the financial status of terminal cancer patients through a digital monitoring system can help them detect possible financial problems early and seek corresponding support and advice. Digital monitoring methods include online or automated telephone interviews during visits regarding symptoms, daily living functioning, and a financial toxicity rating scale designed for chronic disease treatment.
Among patients who participated in the measurement of financial toxicity (the experimental group), 30.2% experienced financial deterioration, compared with 39.0% in the control group (patients who did not receive digital monitoring). Caregivers and participants reported in study interviews that ongoing financial toxicity screening helps them identify patients who may be reluctant (or unaware) that help is available.
Patient support programs to help you receive treatment easily
Caihong Health Integration Group (PatientsForce) has launched “Patients Assistance Programs (PAPs)” since 2015 to provide short-term but extremely effective support for self-paying treatment. This program helps patients taking medications to extend the affordability of self-paid medications through drug donations or financial support programs.
Zhang Xiangxin, general manager of the group, said: “PAPs are welfare programs for patients who need self-pay treatment. Our goal is to help them receive treatment more easily, reduce the financial pressure on their families, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.” PatientsForce revealed Through the independently developed patient support compliance management system, the process of applying for and obtaining various medication support plans is smoother for patients, while effectively reducing the medication management burden on caregivers and medical staff.
PatientsForce not only provides diverse and innovative financial support solutions, but is also committed to financial toxicity measurement services for patients and caregivers. Through regular monitoring, caregivers or medical staff can better understand the patient’s financial status during self-pay treatment, allowing patients experiencing financial toxicity to receive necessary consultation and assistance in a timely manner.Welcome PatientsForce official accountlearn more regarding our services.
References
DOI: 10.1200/JCO.22.02834 Journal of Clinical Oncology 41, no. 29 (October 10, 2023) 4652-4663.
source: healthnews.com.tw
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