Navigating cost and care: A qualitative study on oncologists’ perspectives on financial toxicity in India

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to explore oncologists’ perspectives on how financial toxicity (FT) shapes clinical decision-making and to identify potential solutions to reduce its impact.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with nineteen oncologists working across public, private, and not-for-profit hospitals in nine Indian states. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed till thematic analysis until data saturation was achieved.

Results

The oncologists reported that FT impacted their decision making in four ways:1) Tailoring treatment discussions, 2) Diagnostic adaptations, e.g. avoiding expensive diagnostic tests, 3) Treatment modification, e.g. using treatment protocols based on local research or using generic drugs, and 4) Referral of patients to government centers from private centers. Financial status was assessed by an assessment committee, administrator, clinician, nurse, or social worker. Understanding methods of distress financing, checking eligibility for treatment schemes, and assessing socioeconomic status, expenditure capacity, and insurance coverage were some of the methods used for the financial assessment of patients. Participants suggested improvements at 1) Health system level - expanding public insurance, regulating private hospital pricing, strengthening district-level cancer care, and improving the availability of affordable generic medications, 2) Hospital-level - establishing patient assistance programs, financial navigation services, grievance redressal systems, and multidisciplinary tumor boards to guide evidence-based, cost-conscious care and 3) Provider level - clear, empathetic shared-decision making communication, thoughtful clinical judgment, early palliative care integration, and engaging with policymakers to advocate for broader reforms.

Conclusion

Oncologists in India routinely adapt to account for patients’ financial limitations. Addressing financial toxicity requires coordinated interventions at the system, hospital, and provider levels to ensure equitable, affordable access to cancer care.

Policy summary

This paper highlights the need for a comprehensive National Cancer Policy in India and the need to expand coverage of the government-funded health insurance schemes.