92% of insured breast cancer patients in Bengal completed treatment

A study shows that 92% of breast cancer patients under Bengal's Swasthya Sathi scheme completed their treatment, compared to 60% without insurance. The scheme has improved access and reduced out-of-pocket costs by over 70%. However, the study highlights gaps in coverage for diagnostic tests and onco-plastic surgeries, which are not fully included in the scheme. This has led to delays in treatment for some patients. The research, conducted by doctors from multiple hospitals, was presented at the St Gallen Breast Cancer Conference in Vienna. It aimed to assess the impact of health insurance on treatment adherence in low and middle-income countries.