All.Can Patient Survey

52 4 | The financial impact of cancer Travel costs and loss of employment were the most frequently reported non-treatment-related costs for respondents. Were there any other financial implications of your cancer care and treatment? * • Travel costs: 36% • Loss of employment: 26% • Loss of insurance: 10% • Childcare costs: 8% * This was a ‘tick all that apply’ question, therefore results do not equal 100% What we know With the growing number of cancer survivors, there is increasing recognition of the need for social policies to help former cancer patients return to work after their care and protect them from financial insecurity. 71 In Italy, for example, there is a law allowing patients to switch from full-time to part-time work while undergoing treatment, and go back to full-time work as soon as they are able. It has been recommended that all countries implement similar measures. 72 The Netherlands, meanwhile, is one of the first countries with a government Plan of Action for ‘Cancer & Work’. 73 Unfortunately, not all countries have legal frameworks for the reintegration of cancer survivors into the workplace, although more countries are developing legislation to support and protect this right to return to work. 72 ‘Cost of parking, especially when attending the hospital for appointments up to three times a week. Paying up to $100 a week.’ Respondent from Australia For some respondents, cancer had a negative, and often long-term, impact on productivity for them and their caregivers. Over a quarter of respondents ( 26% ) reported that they had suffered financially due to loss of employment related to their cancer. Respondents sometimes reported not only a loss of their own income, but reduced income for their caregivers , who had to assume greater responsibility by caring for a spouse with cancer alongside maintaining daily household tasks and often caring for children on their own. Self-employed respondents and caregivers felt the impact of this most strongly.