The Role of Patient Financial Assistance Programs in Reducing Costs for Cancer Patients
- 1 April 2017
- journal article
- Published by Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy in Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy
- Vol. 23 (4) , 407-411
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Limited transparency exists regarding eligibility and benefits for patient financial assistance programs (PAPs). OBJECTIVE: To describe oral anticancer medication costs, insurance coverage, and the degree of financial assistance provided by PAPs. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of prescription anticancer medication costs and PAP coverage. The study used data from an academic cancer center’s specialty pharmacy. Medication, cost, and coverage data were collected from the specialty pharmacy database for prescriptions filled from January 2013 to November 2015. Prescriptions with missing copayments, insurance, or financial assistance amounts were excluded. Descriptive statistics summarized prescription characteristics. RESULTS: Of 9,388 anticancer medication prescriptions filled, 8,212 (87%) had complete cost data and were included. The 5 most common medications prescribed were capecitabine (20%), temozolomide (13%), enzalutamide (10%), letrozole (6%), and tamoxifen (4%). Most prescriptions...Keywords
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