Economic Burden of cancer patients at Hasanuddin University Teaching Hospital, Makassar: a qualitative study

Introduction: Cancer can cause disasters, economic-social consequences for individuals and household sufferers. This study reveals the phenomena experienced by cancer patients to inform the development of patient-centered policies. This paper provides a qualitative understanding of the economic and social consequences of cancer. Method : Interviews were conducted on patients who conducted examinations and referrals at Hasanuddin University Teaching Hospital, Makassar (n=30). Data interpretation uses content analysis. Results: The affordability of medical treatment and care needed to manage disease is identified as a key aspect of economic difficulties, which endangers the capacity of patients to proactively manage their illnesses and reduce risk. Factors that exacerbate difficulties are mainly not covered by the National Health Insurance scheme (JKN), and other government benefits. Economic burden are not only felt for those who do not have JKN and other government benefits, but also those who receive insufficient subsidies to meet the costs of managing their long-term illness over and above necessary daily living expenses. Conclusion: This study provides insight into the economic burden of handling cancer, which shows that economic difficulties require households to make difficult decisions between medical expenses and basic living expenses.