Chemotherapy treatment
in the United States can be significantly expensive depending on the kind of drugs prescribed and length of treatment. Other factors include how often the treatment is administered and where the patient is taking the treatment. Most health insurance companies have policies that pay a portion of the costly procedures, but unfortunately newer and more efficient drugs are oftentimes not covered.
Procedure
Chemotherapy treatment cost in the United States is estimated based on various factors including patient test results and required services and procedures for treatment. Doctors ultimately determine the depth of treatment needed, but it can be understood that the lengthier and more involved the treatment, the higher the overall cost. Chemotherapy procedures generally range from around $8,000 to over $15,000, but this does not include the cost of necessary drugs that accommodate the procedure.
Drugs
Necessary drug treatment can be the most expensive part of chemotherapy treatment. Common chemotherapeutic drugs such as leucovorin and 5-FU can cost as little as $100 for an eight-week dosage. However, if a doctor recommends the addition of irinotecan or oxaliplatin, the cost to the patient can increase to $10,000. The cost can rise to $20,000 or $30,000 if cetuximab or bevacizaumab is also needed.
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five patients is not able to get necessary cancer treatment in time or at all because of the high cost. Drug treatment, and therefore cost, is determined based on the severity of the problem and medical needs of the patient. Whether the patient's medical insurance or resources cover it is an entirely different matter.
Cosmetic
Sometimes during the chemotherapy procedure a patient will lose a portion or all of her hair, so she may need to purchase a wig, which can cost as much as $2,000. Skin creams, skin repair products and headwear such as hats or bandannas add to the cost.
Travel
During chemotherapy there is often a large amount of travel required going to and from the hospital for treatments. This can add to the overall expense with many months of accumulated gas costs, parking fees and car maintenance bills.
Work Loss
Other costs not necessarily originating from a hospital or doctor can include personal losses and inconvenience. Work time lost is a significant issue for many cancer patients.
Tags: Chemotherapy treatment, from hospital, United States
