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The Cost of Care in Immuno-Oncology
Comparative effectiveness research is particularly important in oncology, where the cost of treatments is high, according to Andrew L. Pecora, MD. One approach to contain costs is to provide “rational care,” he adds, which means striking a balance between treating too much and too little.
One way to be more vigilant with costs is to be more selective about ordering tests. For example, PET scans are not helpful with immuno-therapeutics because seeing tumor growth can be alarming and does not change the treatment course. It is also important not to focus too much on the cost of the drug, says Pecora. If a more expensive drug results in fewer hospitalizations, it may provide more value and result in better outcomes.
The cost of therapy can be a barrier for patients, however. Gaining more knowledge regarding biomarkers will help oncologists know which patients are most likely to benefit from a particular therapy, he states. As more is learned, it will become easier to optimize utilization. Providing appropriate healthcare through precision medicine is affordable, Pecora adds.
Study Finds Obesity May Worsen Multiple Sclerosis: Genetic Analysis Points to Causal Link
November 21st 2024A new study aimed at exploring the relationship between obesity and multiple sclerosis severity using genetic data finds that higher BMI and other obesity measures were associated with increased disability progression in patients with MS.
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Exploring Racial, Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Care Prior Authorization Decisions
October 24th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the author of a study published in the October 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® that explored prior authorization decisions in cancer care by race and ethnicity for commercially insured patients.
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