Variations in experience of financial costs, information and support in australian cancer survivors.

Introduction Although Australians have access to universal healthcare they may experience (Exp) out of pocket costs. This study aimed to assess incurred costs, information and financial support, and understand associations with less positive Exp. Methods A 2018 online and paper-based cross-sectional survey of Victorian cancer patients (pts). Exp with financial aspects of care from diagnosis to followup were assessed via 9 items. Responses were recoded to more or less positive Exp. Chi-square tests examined associations between Exp of care and pt characteristics. Results 4998 / 10662 (47%) surveys were returned; 4342 had received treatment. 1210 / 4190 (29%) reported less positive Exp with costs; more frequently (freq) in females, aged <70, with (w) lower SES, receiving chemotherapy and recently diagnosed. 715 / 1683 (42%) had less positive Exp regarding being informed about costs associated w treatment; more freq aged <70, higher SES, receiving chemotherapy, non-English speaking and w more common cancers. 919 / 4157 (22%) reported less positive Exp w being offered financial support; more freq w females, aged <70, higher SES, those receiving chemotherapy, w poorer general health, recently diagnosed, metropolitan areas and w less common cancers. Conclusions Significant numbers of pts report out of pocket costs, inadequate information and lack of financial support. Pts need more preparatory information and support.