A cost comparison of laboratory charges in treating childhood leukemia. A children's cancer group analysis.

Purpose: A comparative cost analysis of the front-line acute lymphoblastic leukemia studies of two collaborative pediatric oncology groups was performed to document the charges incurred by the patients for only mandatory laboratory and radiographic data on each protocol.

Materials and methods: The required laboratory and radiographic data on each protocol were tabulated to derive the charges at Phoenix Children's Hospital in July 1992. A comparison between the two pediatric oncology groups was made for each risk category of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Results: A consistent cost difference between the two groups was attributed to the relatively expensive laboratory support required on group Y protocols.

Conclusions: The changing reimbursement environment is affecting the practice patterns of pediatric oncologists, who must be cognizant of the charges for performing scientific clinical trials. Pediatric oncologists must continue to provide quality care without jeopardizing progress.