Intermediate-risk prostate cancer: A Medicare-based cost comparison of five radiotherapy regimens.

Abstract

108 Background: Patients with intermediate risk prostate cancer choosing radiotherapy may be treated with a number of regimens. The current study compares the direct treatment cost for five therapeutic options based on Fiscal Year 2014 Medicare allowable reimbursements. Methods: Hypothetical charge sheets were generated along with the expected Medicare allowable reimbursements (based on global billing where applicable) for the following regimens: 1.) Image Guided Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IGIMRT) to a dose of 78Gy in 39 fractions with one field reduction (IGIMRT); 2.) Dose escalated IGIMRT to 84.60Gy in 47 fractions with one field reduction (MSKCC-IGIMRT); 3.)IGIMRT to a dose of 45Gy in 25 fractions followed by a 90 seed I125 prostate implant (IGIMRT-BTX); 4.) Image Guided Proton Therapy to a dose of 78Gy(RBE) in 39 fractions with one field reduction (SFPT); 5.) Image Guided Hypofractionated Proton Therapy to a dose of 72.50Gy(RBE) in 29 fractions with one field reduction (HFPT). Results: Based on Fiscal Year 2014 Medicare allowable reimbursements, the direct cost for each of these interventions including professional fees, technical fees, isotope costs and facility fees is shown in the Table. Conclusions: This data presents a framework for evaluating the cost effectiveness of proton therapy as compared to competing therapeutic options. Under current Medicare allowable reimbursements, the cost of proton therapy relative to the cost of other therapeutic options is highly dependent on the number of radiotherapy fractions delivered. The feasibility of delivering hypofractionated proton therapy for patients with localized prostate cancer is being investigated at a number of institutions as well as within the framework of a multicenter protocol. Ultimately the cost of proton therapy will need to be weighed against tumor control probabilities as well as the economic and quality of life benefits associated with reduced normal tissue exposure. [Table: see text]