What Does Cancer Treatment Cost at Virginia Oncology Associates?

A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Along with physical and emotional challenges, patients also face the financial impact of treatment, especially when some services may not be fully covered by insurance. Comparing costs can help patients make informed decisions about their care. Each VOA office has a Patient Benefits Representative who helps patients understand and access benefits. They will also assist patients without coverage to access foundational assistance or other programs.

Advanced Cancer Treatments and Value-Focused Care in Hampton Roads & Eastern North Carolina

Most patients can choose where they receive their cancer care. As an independent, community-based practice, Virginia Oncology Associates provides the same high-quality care patients would expect from a hospital or university-affiliated oncology department, often at a lower cost. VOA is part of The US Oncology Network, a nationwide network of more than 1,400 physicians. Network Practices provide therapies that are tailored to each patient’s needs.

Chemotherapy May Cost Less than in Hospitals

A 2023 study by the Health Care Cost Institute found that hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs) frequently charge more for cancer care than independent oncology facilities.

The study reviewed employer-sponsored insurance claims from 2014 to 2020. During that time, while chemotherapy spending increased overall, the rise was significantly higher for patients treated in HOPDs than for those treated in physician office settings. 

Chemotherapy costs in HOPDs increased by nearly 80%, rising from just under $10,000 to $17,493. In contrast, chemotherapy administered in office-based settings rose by 26%, from $5,377 to $6,775. In a similar pattern, out-of-pocket expenses for hospital-based outpatient oncology treatments increased by 45%, compared to only 25% in physician offices, like VOA.

Choosing treatment at Virginia Oncology Associates can be a more cost-effective option for many patients. 

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 several advantages of independent oncology care:

• Hospitals charged up to 86.2% more per unit for certain commonly used cancer drugs.

• Patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors, a type of immunotherapy, saved more than $71,000 per year when treated in independent facilities rather than hospitals. 

• Hospitals participating in the 340 B Drug Pricing Program 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 stress that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis and allows patients to focus on their care. 

More Affordable Radiation Therapy 

Where you receive cancer care can also influence the cost of radiation therapy. A 2022 study of 16,818 insured cancer patients found that individuals treated in physician offices saved 61.6% on same-day visits and 57.1% on total radiation treatment costs compared with those treated in hospital settings. 

Learn more about radiation therapy for cancer. 

Benefits of Community-Based Cancer Care Beyond Cost

While affordability is important, patients also consider quality, convenience, and personalized support. At Virginia Oncology Associates, patients can expect: 

• Personalized, patient-centered care: A multidisciplinary team works together to deliver compassionate care and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s diagnosis and goals. 

• Advanced cancer treatments: Board-certified oncologists provide comprehensive care using the latest treatment pathways, therapies, and technologies.

• Access to clinical trials: VOA offers participation in clinical trial research through Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), a global leader in community-based oncology clinical trials.

• Strength of a national network: As part of The US Oncology Network, our team shares knowledge, best practices, and resources to support high-quality and affordable care. 

Community-Based Cancer Care in Hampton Roads & Eastern North Carolina

Virginia Oncology Associates is an independent, community-based practice offering personalized treatment approaches, advanced therapies, and access to clinical trials close to where patients live and work. Our oncologists are ready to create a personalized treatment plan for your diagnosis. We also provide second opinions on treatment recommendations. If you would like to consult with our cancer care professionals, request a referral from your physician.

Virginia Oncology Associates is located in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Chesapeake, Suffolk (Harbour View and Obici), and Elizabeth City, NC.