Darrudi A, Poupak AH, Darroudi R, Sargazi N, Zendehdel K, Sallnow L, Ghanbari Motlagh A, Tahmasebi M, Nahvijou A. Financial cost of end-of-life cancer care in palliative care units (PCUs) and non-PCUs in Iran: insights from low- and middle-income countries. Palliat Care Soc Pract. 2024 Nov 28;18:26323524241299819. doi: 10.1177/26323524241299819.
Abstract
Background: End-of-life care for patients with advanced cancer can impose a significant financial burden. However, data on the economic impact of end-of-life care in low- and middle-income countries are limited. Objective: This study aims to compare the costs associated with palliative care units (PCUs) and non-PCU settings for cancer patients in Iran.
Design: We designed a retrospective study at the largest hospital in the country. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of hospitalization costs and care service delivery for 150 patients in the final 5 days of life, who were admitted to the largest hospital complex in Iran. All costs were adjusted based on the 2018 USD exchange rate.
Results: Among the 150 patients included in the study, 56 (37%) were admitted to the PCU. The average total treatment cost during the final 5 days of life was three times higher in general wards compared to PCUs. In non-PCU settings, the total cost of care during this period amounted to $2873, while in PCU settings, it was $909.63.
Conclusion: The establishment of PCUs within tertiary hospitals and the provision of palliative consultation services to patients with advanced cancer can yield significant benefits, even when resources are limited.
Keywords: Iran; cancer; end-of-life-care and cost; palliative care.
