Cancer can have a more significant impact in rural communities due to limited access to specialists, higher poverty rates, and a lack of awareness. These factors can lead to later cancer diagnoses and worse outcomes for rural patients. One major challenge these patients face is the high cost of treatment, which often forces them to choose between their health and financial security.
Association member The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health), in Galveston, Texas, is committed to reducing this gap. UTMB Health follows a “Best Care” philosophy, ensuring that every patient receives the right treatment, regardless of their financial situation. UTMB Health understands the unique challenges rural residents with cancer face, and the health system is dedicated to improving their health.
The Financial Burden of Cancer Care in Rural Areas
The high costs associated with cancer treatment, including medications, procedures, and hospital stays, create a significant financial burden. Further complicating matters, rural areas often have higher rates of uninsured individuals, making access to necessary treatments more difficult. Rural communities also may have fewer financial assistance programs or social safety nets compared to urban areas. These combined factors force patients into a heartbreaking situation: prioritizing finances over their health.
A Solution: Leveraging Patient Assistance with Technology
UTMB Health recognized the need for a more efficient and comprehensive approach to help patients access and afford cancer care. The health system partnered with Atlas Health, using technology powered by artificial intelligence to streamline patient advocacy. This partnership enabled UTMB Health to:
- Match patients to assistance programs: Atlas Health’s platform automatically matches patients with various patient assistance programs, maximizing their chances of receiving financial aid.
- Reduce administrative burden: Streamlined digital patient assistance applications and automated processes free up staff time, allowing them to focus on patient care.
- Improve coordination: The platform facilitates communication and collaboration among patients, advocates, and billing teams, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Positive Outcomes and Reduced Disparities
UTMB Health’s investment in this innovative solution has yielded significant results:
- Connecting 265 patients to aid: In less than a year, the program has helped hundreds of patients access necessary care.
- Providing $2.9 million in aid in the first year: UTMB Health is on track to provide millions of dollars in annual financial aid to patients, alleviating their financial burden.
- Reducing bad debt: In the first year, the program contributed to a 4 percent decrease in bad debt — the financial toll of services for which hospitals anticipated but did not receive payment.
These outcomes are just the beginning. By leveraging technology and prioritizing patient financial well-being, UTMB Health is setting an example for health care systems nationwide. UTMB Health’s commitment to closing the gap in cancer care access for rural populations paves the way for improved health equity and better outcomes for all.
Check out the full case study to better understand UTMB’s challenges, solutions, and results.
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