PATIENT FINANCIAL BURDEN: THE ROLE OF MEDICAL SOCIAL WORK OFFICERS IN ASSISTING UNDERPRIVILEGED PATIENTS Illness not only affects an individual’s physical and emotional health but also has a significant impact on the financial well-being of patients and their families. The costs of medical treatment, medication, transportation to healthcare facilities, daily care needs, and loss of income due to inability to work often become major challenges, particularly for low-income groups. This situation is known as patient financial burden or financial toxicity, which refers to the financial distress experienced when healthcare-related expenses begin to affect a patient’s quality of life and ability to continue treatment. Studies have shown that financial hardship may lead patients to delay treatment, reduce adherence to medication, and experience increased emotional stress and anxiety. The ASEAN Costs in Oncology (ACTION) Study, which involved several Southeast Asian countries, found that many cancer patients experienced severe financial distress following their diagnosis. This included depleting family savings, selling assets, and incurring debt to cover treatment costs. Low-income groups were found to be at the highest risk of experiencing significant financial consequences. In Malaysia, similar challenges can be observed among patients requiring long-term treatment for chronic illnesses such as cancer, stroke, and kidney failure. In addition to direct medical expenses, indirect costs such as transportation, loss of employment, and caregiving responsibilities also contribute to the financial strain faced by families. For example, patients who require regular follow-up treatment may need to travel to the hospital several times each month. For families living far from healthcare facilities or those with limited financial resources, this can significantly affect their ability to continue treatment. This is where the role of Medical Social Work Officers (MSWOs) becomes crucial in helping patients and their families cope with the financial crisis caused by illness. Among the key roles of Medical Social Work Officers are: Conducting socioeconomic assessments to identify patients’ financial and social assistance needs. Assisting patients in obtaining financial aid and welfare support through patient welfare funds, government agencies, zakat institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community resources. Providing psychosocial interventions and emotional support to patients and their families who are experiencing stress due to illness. Facilitating continuity of care after discharge, including care planning and follow-up support arrangements. Advocating for patients’ welfare to ensure access to the assistance and healthcare services they require. Studies have also shown that early interventions involving financial assistance and social support can help reduce financial distress and improve patients’ ability to continue treatment effectively. Patient recovery is not solely focused on medical treatment but also encompasses social, emotional, and financial well-being. Appropriate support can help patients move from a state of crisis toward a more holistic and sustainable recovery.   Prepared by: Muhammad Amirul Aidil Bin Rosly Medical Social Work Officer Head, Medical Social Work Section Department of Social and Community Services Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah   References: World Health Organization (WHO) – Social Determinants of Health National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Financial Toxicity in Cancer Care ecancer – Cancer-Related Costs and Financial Impact Among Cancer Survivors in Malaysia University of Malaya – Financial Toxicity and Catastrophic Health Expenditure Research Institute for Health Systems Research Malaysia – Financial Burden Among Cancer Patients International Federation of Social Workers – Role of Medical Social Workers Ministry of Health Malaysia – Medical Social Work Services A Social Worker’s Guide to Professional Practice in Hospitals Financial Toxicity – Overview

Date of Input: 12/06/2026 | Updated: 12/06/2026 | ahmadfaiq