Treatment out-of-pocket cost communication and remote financial navigation in patients with cancer: a feasibility study

Objective We conducted a pilot study assessing the feasibility of a personalized out-of-pocket cost communication, remote financial navigation, and counseling (CostCOM) intervention in cancer patients. Methods Twenty-three adult, newly diagnosed cancer patients at a single community oncology practice were asked to complete a survey and participate in a CostCOM intervention, including patient - specific out-of-pocket cost communication, remote financial navigation, and counseling. Feasibility was defined as patient participation in CostCOM, and its impact on financial worry measured using the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) (higher score = less worry) was assessed. Eight patients’ and two providers’ experience with CostCOM was evaluated using qualitative interviews. Results Mean patient age was 61 (78.3% female; 100% white). Of 23 CostCOM patients, 86.9% completed CostCOM, 60% of them completed a financial assistance application, and 25% of those who applied were enrolled in a co-pay assistance program. Patients’ financial worry significantly improved following CostCOM (COST score of 10.0 ± 9.6 at enrollment vs. 16.9 ± 8.1 at follow-up; p