Living with a rheumatic disease isn’t just a physical challenge — it’s a financial one, too. Those battling rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or any other inflammatory condition, understand that their care comes with a hefty price tag. In fact, the high cost of medication and specialized care leads to significant financial distress for 1 in 5 adults in the United States, according to a recent survey conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.1
Let’s take a closer look at how financial stress complicates disease management and what can be done to ease this burden.
Factors Contributing to Economic Strain in Rheumatology
The financial burden of healthcare can be overwhelming for many patients due to several key factors:
- High Cost of Medications: Many rheumatology patients require specialized medications that can be extremely expensive. Biologics, a common class of drugs used to treat various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, are particularly costly. 2,3
- Loss of Income: The debilitating nature of some rheumatic diseases can make it challenging for patients to maintain full-time employment, leading to a reduction in income despite the rising costs of medical expenses.3,4,6
- Frequent Medical Visits: Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus require regular consultations with specialists to manage disease progression. These visits often come with high copayments, especially if out-of-network providers are involved.5
- Insurance Limitations: While insurance can cover much of the direct costs of treatment, there are still limitations on covered medications and procedures, which can leave patients paying a large portion out-of-pocket.6,7
Impact of Financial Toxicity on Patient Health Outcomes
Financial toxicity is a term used to describe the economic burden of medical expenses. On average, about 56% of US adults are affected by financial toxicity, with younger adults facing more financial hardship than their elderly counterparts.7
However, it goes beyond financial issues to have a lasting impact on patient health outcomes. Studies show that patients experiencing financial hardship are more likely to skip doctor visits, delay tests, or forego necessary treatments. These decisions can lead to worsening symptoms and disease progression.7,8
What Is Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence? What Are Its Consequences?
Cost-related medication nonadherence (CRN) occurs when patients skip doses, reduce their prescribed medication, or avoid filling prescriptions altogether due to financial constraints.1,9 For rheumatology patients, this can be particularly harmful, as missing medication can lead to flare-ups, irreversible joint damage, and reduced quality of life.
Demographic Disparities Among Patients
Financial hardship does not affect all rheumatology patients equally. Certain demographics, including minorities, lower-income individuals, and those without adequate insurance coverage, are more likely to experience significant financial strain. The survey found that black individuals with rheumatic diseases are 25% more likely to encounter financial difficulties than their counterparts. And, interestingly, men with rheumatologic conditions face a 16% higher risk of financial challenges as well.1
As a result, disadvantaged groups may suffer more severe disease consequences due to less access to care.
Having financial stability and other types of support can make all the difference for rheumatology patients. A study published in the American College of Rheumatology Journal revealed that financial hardship increases the risk of excess RA disability independent of disease severity. Other social determinants of health, like social support, lifestyle factors, and education levels, can also impact patients’ health.10
Patient Assistance Programs: Availability and Accessibility
Thankfully, patient assistance programs (PAPs) exist to help reduce the financial burden. Many pharmaceutical companies offer PAPs that provide free or discounted medications to eligible patients.
Copay Assistance Through ARBDA
At ARBDA, we understand the importance of making care accessible. Our team actively helps patients secure copay assistance to keep their treatments affordable. Through partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and nonprofit organizations, ARBDA simplifies the application process, guiding patients every step of the way.
ARBDA: Where Patients Come First
Our mission is to deliver compassionate care that prioritizes the well-being of our patients. We know that managing a rheumatologic condition can be overwhelming, which is why we strive to reduce barriers — financial or otherwise.
If you or a loved one are facing the dual challenge of managing your health and finances, let ARBDA be your partner. Schedule an appointment with New Jersey’s best team of rheumatologists today, and take the first step toward comprehensive care designed with your needs in mind. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of care and work toward a healthier future.
2https://biologicmeds.org/biologic-basics/the-real-cost-of-biologic-drugs/
5https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article-abstract/39/1/28/1783791?redirectedFrom=fulltext
6https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7654799/
7https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6667570/
8https://www.statista.com/chart/31421/share-of-us-adults-without-medical-care-due-to-costs/
9https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2805012
10https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10952173/
