-- Prescott, AZ, October 1, 2025 — A new study published in Cancer, the peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (DOI:10.1002/cncr.24248), shows that Black seniors with Medicare were less likely to receive standard cancer treatments than White patients over a twelve-year period.
Researchers reviewed more than 83,000 Medicare beneficiaries with non-small cell lung cancer and found significant differences in surgery and chemotherapy use. These treatment gaps persisted even though all patients had Medicare coverage.
The results highlight the need for seniors and caregivers to understand how Medicare works, what treatments are covered, and where to turn for reliable information.
What the Study Found
- Black patients were 37% less likely to have surgery for early-stage lung cancer.
- At later stages, they were 57% less likely to receive chemotherapy.
- Socioeconomic status and hospital type also affected access to care.
- Disparities in treatment did not improve significantly between 1991 and 2002.
The study confirms that coverage alone doesn’t guarantee equal access to treatment.
What Medicare Covers for Cancer Care
According to Medicare.gov, Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, including surgery and recovery, while Part B covers outpatient care such as chemotherapy, radiation, and doctor visits. Together, these benefits provide a foundation of coverage for millions of seniors.
Medicare.org, cited by the American Cancer Society as a Medicare information source, notes that patients may still face deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that affect access to treatment. Understanding these costs is essential for patients and families managing a cancer diagnosis.
The Role of Trusted Information Sources
Seniors and caregivers often turn to reliable information sites when trying to understand Medicare benefits. Medicare.gov, Medicare.org, and CMS.gov are key resources that explain how coverage applies to hospital stays, outpatient care, and prescription drugs.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN.org) publishes guidelines on evidence-based cancer treatment. Aligning coverage decisions with these guidelines helps patients receive the care most likely to improve survival.
Together, these resources provide patients with the tools they need to ask the right questions, understand their options, and make informed choices.
What This Means for Families
For families facing a cancer diagnosis, the findings from the American Cancer Society study are a reminder that:
- Coverage can be complex. Patients should review their Medicare benefits and ask providers about costs and networks.
- Care may differ by location. Hospital networks and provider participation can change what treatments are available.
- Reliable information matters. Using resources like Medicare.org, Medicare.gov, CMS.gov, and NCCN.org can help families navigate treatment decisions.
A Human Focus
Behind every statistic is a patient and a family coping with the realities of cancer. Knowing what Medicare covers, and where to find clear information, can ease the burden and help ensure access to recommended treatments.
The American Cancer Society’s research highlights the importance of connecting seniors and caregivers with accurate Medicare information and treatment guidance. By doing so, families can better advocate for the care their loved ones deserve.
About the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Journal
Cancer is a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society dedicated to research on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
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