Women, however, were the less likely of the two to trust a diagnosis or treatment recommendation made by artificial intelligence, with a difference of 36 to 52 percent out of 44 percent of respondents who expressed openness to its use.

Of those surveyed, 60 percent were open to genetic testing to assess their risk of developing cancer while the other 40 percent remained uncertain, mainly due to not wanting to know their risk or lacking enough knowledge about genetic testing.


To ensure access to these options, Sieden says ongoing research and innovative strategies at the federal and local levels are necessary to determine the best approach for addressing the financial burden of cancer care long-term, with the responsibility falling on providers, insurers and other parties.

"Incorporating financial and cost information into health literacy efforts is critical. For insurers, it is important that members have access to compassionate resources that can clearly convey what is and is not covered under their respective policies. For providers, it is important that patients are encouraged to leverage any financial resources available within their network or community," he said. "As it relates to clinical advancements and new technologies, payers and providers should embrace America’s growing interest and comfort with AI and innovative therapies or diagnostics. Payers in particular should evaluate the long-term value of early detection tools such as genetic testing, which is becoming increasingly more affordable, and can aid in early detection and potentially save lives."

Nearly 10 million individuals are estimated to die from cancer each year with more than 18 million new cases diagnosed worldwide, according to estimates by the World Health Organization.

Aside from cost, seventy-five percent of participants specified access to the latest technologies and clinical trials as their primary concern, followed by 74 percent who sought support of staff and providers; 60 percent concerned with the brand name of the facility; and 53 percent who expressed a desire to be close to home.

The survey was conducted between August 20-22, 2018, with 2,012 participants aged 18 and older and spread out across the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii, completing questions online in English.

The sample drawn for the study reflected fixed sample targets on demographics, with post-hoc weights made to the population characteristics on gender, age, race and ethnicity, region and education. The poll has a credibility interval of plus or minus 2.5 percent for all respondents.

Back to HCB News

U.S. Healthcare Homepage