Five myths about cancer care in America

Health Aff (Millwood). 2014 Oct;33(10):1801-4. doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.2014.0826.

Abstract

In this commentary we debunk a number of the most common misconceptions about cancer treatment, such as claims that the war on cancer has been a failure and that treatment costs are unsustainable. In addition, there is good evidence that patients value these treatments more highly than traditional cost-effectiveness analysis would indicate. We argue that coverage policies placing undue burden on patients are socially wasteful and will likely discourage further innovation.

Keywords: Health Economics; Health Spending.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Health Care Costs / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / economics
  • Neoplasms / mortality
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Terminal Care / economics
  • United States