Financial toxicity describes the negative impact medical expenses can have on patients in terms of their health-related quality of life.
[1] It leads to negative mental and physical effects as well as, in some cases, bankruptcy, loss of job or income, or even homelessness.
[8] As of 2020, preexisting debt, prediagnosis conditions, type of employment like hourly versus salaried, and asset levels are "areas in need of further study" according to the National Cancer Institute.
[9] Certain types of cancer treatments requiring daily attendance to a clinic or healthcare provider can increase the risk of financial toxicity on patients.
[4][10][2][11][12] Since 2009, the American Society of Clinical Oncology has recommended ~ guidance on how healthcare professionals talk to patients about costs.