What is the Cost of Receiving Cancer Care at Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY?
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. In addition to the physical and emotional impacts, many patients face significant financial burdens, even with insurance, due to co-pays and insurance deductible requirements. Understanding how costs can vary between independent cancer centers like Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY and hospital-based cancer centers can help you make more informed decisions about your next steps.
Patient-Centered, Advanced Treatments with Value-Focused Care in Syracuse
Most patients have a choice in where they receive cancer treatment. As an independent, community-based practice, Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY (HOA) provides comprehensive, high-quality cancer care comparable to hospital-based oncology facilities—often at a lower cost.
HOA is a Certified ASCO Patient-Centered Cancer Care center, meaning we meet the Oncology Medical Home (OMH) standards that emphasize coordinated, accessible, and patient-focused care. HOA is also the only QOPI® Certified Cancer Center in Central New York. This certification demonstrates that they meet the high standards for quality and safety established by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).
Our team offers access to the most advanced cancer treatments and technologies, delivered in a highly personalized way that matches each patient’s diagnosis and goals. The difference is that many patients may pay less for comparable care when receiving treatment in a community oncology setting, such as Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY.
Chemotherapy Costs Are Typically Lower at HOA Compared to a Hospital Setting
Research continues to show that where you receive treatment can significantly impact the overall cost of care. A 2023 study by the Health Care Cost Institute found that hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs) often charge more for cancer care than independent oncology practices.
The study reviewed employer-sponsored insurance claims from 2014 to 2020. During that time, chemotherapy costs increased in both settings—but at a much higher rate in hospitals. Costs in hospital outpatient departments rose by nearly 80%, increasing from just under $10,000 to $17,493. In comparison, chemotherapy administered in physician office settings increased by 26%, from $5,377 to $6,775.
Out-of-pocket costs followed a similar trend. Patients treated in hospital settings saw expenses rise by 45%, compared to a 25% increase for those receiving care in physician offices.
Overall, patients treated at independent cancer centers were charged less for care that included chemotherapy.
For many patients, choosing care in a community oncology setting like HOA can be a more cost-effective option.
According to the Community Oncology Alliance, patients may pay up to 50% more for cancer care delivered in hospital outpatient departments compared with independent oncology practices.
Additional research highlights further differences:
- Patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors have seen annual savings exceeding $71,000 when treated in community-based settings, according to a report in the American Journal of Clinical Oncology in 2022
- Hospitals have charged up to 86.2% more per unit for certain commonly used infusion cancer drugs
- Patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer experienced chemotherapy costs that were 41% lower in independent oncology settings, with similar or improved outcomes
- Hospitals participating in the 340B Drug Pricing Program have billed privately insured patients up to 6.59 times more for outpatient infusion drugs.
Reducing the cost of cancer treatment can help ease the financial burden that often comes with a diagnosis, allowing patients to focus more fully on their care and well-being.
Quality and Affordable Radiation Therapy
The location where you receive radiation therapy can also influence overall costs. A 2022 study published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology found that more than 16,000 insured cancer patients treated in physician office settings saved 61.6% on same-day visits and 57.1% on total radiation treatment costs compared to patients treated in hospital settings.
HOA’s cancer centers located in the Syracuse area offer radiation therapy with free parking, making it easier to attend radiation therapy appointments, which are often five days a week for several weeks.
Learn more about radiation oncology at HOA.
Benefits of Community-Based Cancer Care Beyond Cost
While cost is an important factor, patients also prioritize quality, convenience, and personalized support throughout their care journey. At HOA, patients can expect:
- Patient-centered, coordinated care: Our team works closely together to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique diagnosis, needs, and goals.
- Proven quality and safety standards: As a QOPI® Certified practice and ASCO Patient-Centered Cancer Care certified center, HOA is dedicated to providing care that meets nationally recognized standards for excellence.
- Convenient, local care: Receiving treatment close to home helps save on travel time, reduces disruptions to your daily life, and allows for better support from family and caregivers.
- Advanced treatment options: Our physicians offer access to the latest therapies and technologies, enabling patients to receive exceptional, comprehensive care.
- Access to clinical trials: HOA patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical research, which provides access to promising new treatments.
Community-Based Cancer Care in Central New York
Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is proud to provide high-quality, community-based cancer care across Central New York. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to delivering comprehensive care, including personalized treatment, advanced therapies, and compassionate support close to home. If you have already received a treatment plan from a hospital-based cancer center, we are happy to provide a second opinion and discuss your out-of-pocket treatment costs.
Our cancer centers are located in the Syracuse area. We care for patients in Cayuga County, Onondaga County, Oneida County, Madison County – including Auburn, Camillus, Utica, Oneida, and Verona – and Jefferson County and Oswego County, including Watertown, Fulton, and Oswego.
