What Factors Influence Access to Cancer Treatment?
Several factors can affect a patient's access to cancer treatment. These include socio-economic status, geographic location, healthcare infrastructure, and insurance coverage. Socio-economic status can determine both the ability to afford treatment and the level of education about available options. Geographic location impacts access as rural areas may have fewer healthcare facilities. Healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of specialized oncology services, greatly impacts treatment access. Lastly, insurance coverage can determine the affordability of cancer care, which is often expensive.