LAUSR

PURPOSE Despite widespread reports of cancer-related financial hardship, hospital financial assistance programs are underutilized. APPROACH Rapid qualitative research. SAMPLE Gynecologic oncology patients with recurrent or metastatic disease, under 65 years old, and Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity of 26 or under. METHODS Semi-structured interviews to elicit (1) financial assistance awareness/knowledge, (2) barriers to accessing assistance, and (3) suggestions for improving access. We analyzed the transcripts using thematic analysis: open coding, consensus building/codebook, and identification of salient themes. FINDINGS We interviewed 25 patients and identified four barriers and three suggestions for improving access. Barriers: lack of awareness, perceptions of ineligibility, fear of negative consequences, and being overwhelmed. Suggestions: simplifying financial processes, providing individualized assistance, and being more proactive by intervening earlier. CONCLUSION Increase access by reducing stigma, misconceptions, and more proactively engaging at-risk patients. IMPLICATIONS FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL PROVIDERS Patients may be too afraid or overwhelmed to ask for help. A more proactive, psychosocial approach is needed.