Learn what factors of cancer care are perceived as most valuable, and why cost is the least important.
Researchers from some of Pennsylvania’s top health institutions studied patient, provider, and payer perceptions of value in cancer care. Researchers from Highmark also participated in the study.1
The goal of this study was to understand the meaning of “value” from differing perspectives in the cancer journey. Researchers looked at five aspects of the cancer experience: longevity, costs, functional well-being, emotional well-being, and overall experience.
More than 1,100 participants joined the study: 70% patients, 20% health care providers, and 10% payer representatives. Patient surveys appeared on Facebook™ Cancer Support pages. Provider and payer surveys were received via email.
The current frameworks for measuring value in cancer care center on clinical benefits, safety, and cost. Those frameworks do not take quality of life into account. Nor do they include self-reported outcomes or how various parties define value in cancer care.
Researchers in this study, “Exploring the Perception of Value in Cancer Care,” wanted to go further. Future innovation in cancer care delivery depends on knowing what value means to the various stakeholders. Researchers looked at five aspects of the cancer care experience:
Understanding the varying perceptions of value among patients, health care providers, and payers is crucial for innovating cancer care delivery. Results in the “Perception of Value” study showed how each group prioritizes different aspects of the cancer care experience.
The 782 patients in the survey were primarily concerned with longevity, an expected and natural response. Functional well-being came next on their list of priorities. Emotional well-being and overall experience tied as the third most important consideration, with costs coming in last.
The 216 health care providers in this study ranked all factors equally, with the exception of costs. They put costs last, giving them the lowest priority.
Participants included 105 representatives from payer organizations. Payers were in consensus with providers, ranking all factors equally, except for costs. Costs were the area of least consideration for all groups, including patients.
Multicriteria decision analysis2 (MCDA) is a health care decision-making approach that weighs traditional and nontraditional measures. In addition to the five aspects discussed above, MCDA for cancer care may include:
This approach allows shared decision-making3 (SDM) with the patient, improving transparency through collaboration and understanding. Patients take an active role in their care — working with their providers to create a plan that meets multifaceted needs.
As the research has shown, comprehensive cancer care goes beyond medical treatment. It is a health care journey that challenges the whole person — in body, mind, and spirit.
Highmark’s group cancer care coverage ensures members receive expert care, beginning with prevention. Regular screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and cervical cancer testing are part of every Highmark Well360 plan.
We also cover eligible cancer treatments such as office visits, lab tests, medications, outpatient treatment fees, and hospitalization. Depending on the type of cancer, we may also offer clinical study participation and/or genetic testing.
Highmark’s whole-person approach also supports the emotional well-being of patients throughout their cancer journey. Our virtual Mental Well-Being solution is available for all types of mental health care concerns.
The program offers a wide network of providers. Members can choose virtual or in-person visits and select a provider who has experience with cancer patients. They can also select by gender, ethnicity, faith, and/or familiarity with the LGBTQ+ community.
A comprehensive approach to cancer care is essential. Shared decision-making, diverse support systems, and care options all play a role. This multifaceted approach improves transparency and collaboration, empowering people with cancer to take an active role in their care.
Researchers continue to study perceived value in cancer care, reflecting complex and varied priorities. Future, larger studies will refine — and further define — the services the cancer care community wants and needs.
Highmark group cancer care benefits for employees include medically necessary treatment, along with mental health care, and access to community services. Talk to your account manager or broker for more details.
All references to “Highmark” in this communication are references to Highmark Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and/or to one or more of its affiliated Blue companies.
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