December 2015

Several new FDA approvals and research advances in oncology have the potential for improved outcomes among cancer patients.

Updates on screening age recommendations for mammograms, CDC report on a decline in smoking rates in the country, and regulation of laboratory-developed tests.

While cost is an important component of value, it tells only a small part of the cancer care story. By focusing on issues of payment and cost alone, we miss our opportunity to engage cancer care stakeholders in the process of creating a more effective system of care.

This article describes provider networks and benefit design-including deductibles, cost-sharing, and maximum out-of-pocket limits-for oncology care in 2015 health insurance exchanges.

At the first annual conference of the Institute for Clinical Immuno-Oncology on October 1, 2015, in Philadelphia, the discussion revolved around integrating immuno-oncology into clinical practice and programs that assist with patient access to these treatments.

Providers and payers came together to discuss challenges and share success stories as they adapt to the changing healthcare realm.

With the rising costs of cancer care, evidence-based tools can help physicians screen patients for financial toxicity.

The advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, is working across the country to pass and implement strong oral chemotherapy fairness laws to help ensure cancer patients have access to the recommended course of treatment without added out-of-pocket costs based on how their drug is administered.

Addressing the financial burden of cancer treatment requires efforts at the policy, payer, and clinic level, and implementation of these strategies, in clinical practice, requires commitment from various stakeholders.

Oral chemotherapy ensured improved quality of life for a young, stage 3 pancreatic cancer patient.

Solutions proposed by patient advocates and physicians to control costs provide approaches to valuing new drug/treatments compared with 1 or several prevailing standards of care. Increasingly, however, the debate over cost is transitioning to a debate over value.

Management of high and rising costs in oncology requires a multifaceted approach using both innovative strategies and pragmatic tools. In this article, we discuss several factors that influence the costs of oncology care.

A unique collaboration between 21st Century Oncology and Lee Memorial Hospital showed marked improvements in efficiencies, care, and patient experience.

A cancer survivor shares her experience and frustrations with cancer care costs and looks to changes within the healthcare system to improve the value of care in the future.

The 340B Drug Discount Program has rapidly expanded over the last few years and may be missing its original intent. Here are 3 possible steps that could enhance the program’s function and mirror Congress’ original intent to enhance access for the poor to essential medical services.