The Out-of-Pocket Cost Burden of Cancer Care—A Systematic Literature Review

Background: Out-of-pocket costs pose a substantial economic burden to cancer patients and their families. The purpose of this study was evaluate the literature on out-of-pocket care. Methods: A systematic review conducted identify studies that estimated cost faced by caregivers. average monthly per patient were reported/estimated converted 2018 USD. Costs reported as medical non-medical across countries or country income levels site, where possible, category. proportion spent non-reimbursable costs. Results: Among all cancers, adult caregivers in U.S. between USD 180 2600 month, compared 15–400 Canada, 4–609 Western Europe, 58–438 Australia. Patients with breast colorectal around 200 while pediatric 800. 288 month medications 40 other high-income (HICs). for consultations in-hospital care 40–71 HICs. Cancer 42% 16% annual expenses low- middle-income HICs, respectively. Conclusions: We found evidence is associated high Healthcare systems have an opportunity improve coverage help alleviate ensure equitable access