Study of Financial Navigation to Reduce Financial Hardship for Breast, Colorectal, and Prostate Cancer Patients in Nigeria

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of a structured financial navigation program to reduce financial catastrophe and distress among cancer patients in Nigeria. This trial focuses on newly diagnosed breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer patients, examining if the program can lower the high costs and financial challenges faced by these individuals. The study also evaluates whether the financial navigation program is sustainable and cost-effective for cancer centers in Nigeria. Participants in the financial navigation program will work with a salaried financial navigator who educates them about financial literacy, insurance options, and available charitable payment programs. The navigator also assists with verifying insurance documents, maintaining financial records, and coordinating insurance payments. The trial compares this group to participants receiving routine care without access to the navigators services. The study will enroll 200 patients at two cancer centers and follow them over time to assess financial outcomes. Participants will complete surveys about their demographics, cancer history, socioeconomic status, quality of life, psychological wellbeing, and all costs related to their cancer care. The main outcomes measured include the incidence of financial catastrophe over 12 months and levels of financial distress at 3, 6, and 12 months. Researchers will also monitor cost-related non-adherence to treatment up to 6 months. This detailed monitoring aims to provide insights into how financial navigation may affect cancer care affordability and patient wellbeing in low-resource settings.

Evaluating the Impact of Financial Navigation on Financial Catastrophe and Distress for Cancer Care