Browsing by Author "Lindsay, Daniel"

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    Challenges and solutions to cancer‑related financial toxicity according to Australian health professionals: qualitative results from a national survey
    (Supportive Care in Cancer, 2023) McLoone, Jordana; Chan, Raymond J.; Varlow, Megan; Whittaker, Kate; Lindsay, Daniel; Thamm, Carla; Leigh, Lillian; Muir, Laura; Mackay, Gillian; Karikios, Deme J.; Hunt, Lee; Hobbs, Kim; Goldsbury, David E.; Nabukalu, Doreen; Gordon, Louisa G.
    To qualitatively explore Australian healthcare professionals’ perspectives on how to improve the care and management of cancer-related financial toxicity, including relevant practices, services, and unmet needs. Methods We invited healthcare professionals (HCP) who currently provide care to people with cancer within their role to complete an online survey, which was distributed via the networks of Australian clinical oncology professional associations/organisations. The survey was developed by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia’s Financial Toxicity Working Group and contained 12 open-ended items which we analysed using descriptive content analysis and NVivo software. Results HCPs (n = 277) believed that identifying and addressing financial concerns within routine cancer care was important and most believed this to be the responsibility of all HCP involved in the patient’s care. However, financial toxicity was viewed as a “blind spot” within a medical model of healthcare, with a lack of services, resources, and training identified as barriers to care. Social workers reported assessment and advocacy were part of their role, but many reported lacking formal training and understanding of financial complexities/laws. HCPs reported positive attitudes towards transparent discussions of costs and actioning cost-reduction strategies within their control, but feelings of helplessness when they perceived no solution was available. Conclusion Identifying financial needs and providing transparent information about cancer-related costs was viewed as a cross-disciplinary responsibility, however, a lack of training and services limited the provision of support. Increased cancer-specific financial counselling and advocacy, via dedicated roles or developing HCPs’ skills, is urgently needed within the healthcare system.
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    The impact of management option on out-of-pocket costs and perceived financial burden among men with localised prostate cancer in Australia within 6 months of diagnosis
    (Australian Health Review, 2024) Lindsay, Daniel; Nabukalu, Doreen; Roberts, Matthew J.; Yaxley, John; Quinn, Stephen; Richards, Natalie; FrydenbergK, Mark; Gardiner, Robert; Lawrentschuk, Nathan; Juraskova, Ilona; Murphy, Declan G.; Gordon, Louisa G.
    Objective This study aimed to quantify the out-of-pocket (OOP) costs and perceived financial burden among Australian men with localised prostate cancer in the first 6 months after diagnosis, by primary management option.Methods This cost-analysis quantified OOP costs using administrative claims data and self-reported survey data. Financial burden was assessed using the COmprehensive Score for financial Toxicity–Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (COST-FACIT) tool. Participants were recruited into a randomised control trial from public or private treatment centres in Victoria and Queensland. Generalised linear models were used to predict OOP costs and COST-FACIT scores.Results Median total OOP costs within 6 months of diagnosis for 256 Australian patients with localised prostate cancer was A$1172 (A$343–2548). Up to 50% of the sample reported A$0 costs for most medical services. Compared with those managed with active surveillance, men having active treatment had 6.4 (95% CI: 3.2–12.7) times greater total OOP costs. Management option, higher Gleason score at diagnosis and having multiple comorbidities were significant predictors of higher OOP costs. Overall high scores on the COST-FACIT indicated low levels of financial burden for the entire sample.Conclusion Largely attributable to being managed with active surveillance, Australian men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer reported relatively low OOP costs and financial burden in the first 6 months post-diagnosis. Together with clinical outcomes, clinicians can use this up to date evidence on costs and perceived financial burdens to assist localised prostate cancer patients and their families make informed decisions about their preferred management option.