JLE

Bulletin du Cancer

MENU

The cost of radiotherapy Volume 90, issue 11, Novembre 2003

Author
Centre Bourgogne, 144, avenue de Dunkerque, 59000 Lille

The higher human and material costs induced by the developpement of conformal radiotherapy and other innovative technics have to be evaluated. Different studies reflect benefit for three‐dimentional conformal radiation therapy. This needs appropriate economic analyses (cost\benefit, cost\utility). Conclusions from studies are rather in favour of new technics of radiotherapy when compared to standard technics and alternative therapeutic procedures and justify investments. The two cost accounting avalable in France are compared. Uptil now, medical reimbursements underestimate the costs related to treatment, slowing down implementation of new equipment and quality therapeutic practices. The mean reimbursement was 1,670 €, always under mean real costs. To promote innovative treatments more rational reimbursement modalities are necessary. European experiences demonstrate than modern radiotherapy facilities don‘t induce expensive costs (average 3,800 €). ▴