Abstract
Introduction
The diagnosis and subsequent management of sarcoma often requires multiple separate attendances to Hospital and often a prolonged inpatient stay post surgery. Previous research has focused on the physical and emotional aspects of a diagnosis of cancer, but little has been discussed regarding the financial costs incurred by patients and their families.
Methods
40 patients treated at our Unit were contacted and were questioned about the financial costs relating to their diagnosis and treatment. The questionnaire included distance travelled to the Unit, mode of transport, who patients were accompanied by, costs whilst at the Hospital e.g. car parking, days off work and impact on employment and career progression.
Results
Patients travelled an average of 88 miles for a return journey to the Unit. They attended an average of 18 out-patient consultations during their treatment. The estimated cost of travel to consultations alone, including parking was £785. The mean length of in-patient stay was 5.4 days. Relatives visited on most days of the in-patient stay with further associated costs. 18 patients felt that progression at work i.e. promotion had been affected by their diagnosis. A further 12 patients had lost / given up their job as a result of the disease.
Discussion
The diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment of, Sarcoma has a profound effect on patients. The financial strain incurred by multiple clinic visits, in-patient stays and associated costs adds to the pressure of the diagnosis. Efforts need to be made to ensure that patients are seen in a truly coordinated manner and more use made of new innovations such as web support. An outline of the anticipated financial impact for patients should be given at an earlier stage and earlier liaison with employers ensured such that employers can plan for expected absences.
