Key Takeaways:
- A $10,000-a-year cancer drug put a family in a tough spot.
- Medicare helps with costs, but some patients still struggle.
- High drug prices are a big problem for many families.
- New laws aim to make life-saving treatments more affordable.
The High Cost of Cancer Treatment
In 2020, Stacie Dusetzina faced a heart-wrenching challenge. Her 67-year-old mom had advanced breast cancer. As a cancer policy researcher at Vanderbilt University, Stacie knew the best drug for her mom was Ibrance, made by Pfizer. But the cost was shocking: $10,000 a year out of pocket.
Her mom lived on a fixed income, and $10,000 was way beyond her budget. Stacie understood the importance of this drug. She also knew Medicare would cover most of the cost. But she worried about the gap her mom would still have to pay.
How Medicare Helps
Medicare is required by law to cover cancer treatments like Ibrance. This means the program pays most of the drug’s cost. However, the remaining amount can still be a heavy burden for many patients, especially those living on fixed incomes.
In 2020, Stacie’s mom would have paid a large portion of the drug’s cost upfront. This is because Medicare’s coverage rules left a gap that patients had to fill. This gap can be a huge problem for people who can’t afford it.
The Fight for Affordable Drugs
Stacie’s situation is not unique. Many families face the same struggle. High drug prices are a major issue in the U.S. Ibrance, for example, is a critical treatment for breast cancer. But its high cost puts it out of reach for some patients.
Stacie’s experience with her mom made her even more determined to fight for change. As a researcher, she knows how important it is to make life-saving drugs affordable for everyone.
New Hope for Patients
In recent years, there have been efforts to lower drug costs. Some new laws and programs aim to reduce the burden on patients. For example, changes to Medicare rules are helping limit out-of-pocket costs for certain treatments.
These changes could make a big difference for families like Stacie’s. But there’s still work to be done. High drug prices remain a challenge for many Americans.
What This Means for You
If you or a loved one is facing a similar situation, there are resources available. Medicare can help cover much of the cost of treatments like Ibrance. But it’s important to understand the rules and any potential gaps in coverage.
Advocates like Stacie are working hard to make sure everyone can afford the treatments they need. Their efforts remind us that no one should have to choose between life-saving care and financial ruin.