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

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.