Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
4-9-2026
Faculty Mentor
Corey Morrow
Abstract
Student run free clinics (SRFC) provide care to uninsured or under insured patients with physical and mental health impairments. Under insured patients must make difficult decisions about their healthcare, not based on best practices, but on what they can reasonably afford. For example, they may have to forego durable medical equipment (DME) (e.g., shower chairs, wheelchairs, and self-care equipment)or treatments due to high out-of-pocket costs.
Financial toxicity (FT) refers to the negative impact of medical expenses on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and can lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes. FT is a new concept that has mostly been studied in cancer and heart disease, and has yet to be explored in rehabilitation. There is no known published research exploring the possible relationship between DME and FT. It is important that therapists feel comfortable addressing FT in the clinical setting to provide appropriate client centered care.
The purpose of this capstone project was to increase student-clinician confidence in addressing and providing resources for patients at the MUSC CARES Therapy Clinic who may be experiencing impacts of financial toxicity.
Student clinicians completed preliminary, anonymous online REDCap surveys . The results revealed that student clinicians were comfortable explaining DME use to patients and making appropriate recommendations, but were not familiar with FT or the clinic’s DME ordering process.
Using the results of the preliminary survey, a resource guide was created that included state and local entities that offer DME and home modifications to patients in need at free or reduced rates. The resource guide included education materials on FT to increase awareness for clinicians and patients. Next, student clinicians reviewed the resource guide and participated in verbal interviews. Of these students, 100% felt that the information in the guide was clear, were satisfied with the resources, and gained an improved understanding of FT.
Recommended Citation
Boggess, Samantha, "Addressing Financial Toxicity in Student-Run Free Clinics (SRFCs) Through Development of Inventory System and Community Resource Guide for Durable Medical Equipment (DME)" (2026). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 111.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/111