Oncologists' insights and solutions on navigating financial toxicity: an exploratory study in Pakistan.

Abstract

Financial toxicity (FT) poses a major challenge in cancer treatment. This study aimed to explore oncologists' attitudes towards FT, the barriers they face in managing it and potential solutions. The study employed an exploratory qualitative design using inductive thematic analysis. The study was conducted at two tertiary care hospitals in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Thirteen oncologists were approached; 12 participated. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. Eligible participants were all licensed oncologists who signed a written consent form and possessed at least 1 year of oncology experience. Four themes emerged: the oncologist's role in addressing FT, the impact of FT on patient outcomes, barriers in discussing FT and proposed solutions. Participants acknowledged that oncologists have a critical role in addressing FT in patients through cost-effective treatment planning and counselling. However, several challenges make it difficult to discuss FT. The oncologists advocate including financial counselling services in treatment, expanding coverage of the Sehat Sahulat Program, improving healthcare infrastructure and regulating cancer drug prices to mitigate FT. FT is a multidimensional problem that requires systemic reforms rather than relying solely on oncologists. Future studies should involve patients and various stakeholders across different areas to explore FT and develop context-specific interventions for cancer care more comprehensively.