Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in the Philippines. It continues to rank among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Our team at Asia Pacific Management and Research Group took on the challenge of uncovering the real cost of care to help shape health financing policies that respond to the financial realities faced by patients.

Understanding the Cost Burden

With support from Pfizer, we conducted a nationwide costing study from December 2021 to November 2022. We worked closely with nine hospitals across the country, including both public and private facilities. Our goal was to develop a detailed understanding of the actual costs of diagnosis, treatment, and management of breast cancer, using a bottom-up approach.

We created a costing tool, gathered data from different hospital departments, consulted specialists for validation, and aligned our analysis with global clinical guidelines. The study followed the National Comprehensive Cancer Network’s recommended interventions and used 2021 price levels to provide timely cost estimates.

The Findings Speak for Themselves

Treating Stage IIB triple positive breast cancer may cost between 1.6 million and 1.8 million pesos. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy together account for up to 80 percent of this total. Diagnostic workups can already exceed 23,000 pesos, while surgery may cost up to 277,000 pesos. Add hormone therapy and radiation, and the financial burden grows even heavier.

In contrast, the current PhilHealth Z-benefit package for breast cancer provides only 100,000 pesos and covers early stages. There is a wide gap between actual costs and available financial protection.

Gaps and Opportunities in Health Financing

We saw the need for stronger alignment between cost data and policy decisions. Hospitals do not use standardized procedure codes and often lack integrated cost tracking systems. Policymakers also have limited access to consistent, real-time cost information that could inform benefit design.

To address these challenges, we recommend adopting updated clinical guidelines that include clear costing pathways. A centralized national cost repository would also help create transparency and consistency across health facilities.

Why This Matters Now

Our study makes a case for realistic and equitable cancer financing. It highlights the importance of grounding policy reform in actual service delivery costs to make healthcare more accessible and sustainable for Filipino women.

To receive the full report or explore ways we can collaborate to improve cancer care financing, feel free to contact us. We would be glad to share what we learned and support further action.