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What is the cost of cancer therapy in the US?

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Last Modified: November 1, 2001

Dear OncoLink "Ask the Experts,"
It is difficult to provide cost estimates for the treatment of cancer without having a more definitive idea of where and how a patient will be treated. The charge structure for medical services varies fairly significantly across the country. Even on a regional basis, you will find sizeable differences from hospital to hospital.

It is difficult to provide cost estimates for the treatment of cancer without having a more definitive idea of where and how a patient will be treated. The charge structure for medical services varies fairly significantly across the country. Even on a regional basis, you will find sizeable differences from hospital to hospital.

A patient's treatment regimen may include one or all of the three modalities used to fight cancer, i.e. surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The regimen could potentially include just one or any combination of the three services. Therefore the total charge for a patient's treatment will vary significantly, depending upon the method(s) by which the patient is treated. To accurately estimate such costs, we suggest that you contact your local branch of the American Cancer Society who may be able to provide information on the oncology services available in your area. You should then contact these providers (hospitals and physicians) to explain your situation and seek their guidance.