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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Black patients and those on Medicaid are significantly less likely to receive autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for multiple myeloma, a treatment linked to better survival. A new study found that Medicaid coverage — more common among Black patients — is a key barrier, and that Medicaid expansion alone hasn't closed the gap. Researchers say coordinated, equity-focused strategies are needed to ensure all patients benefit from advances in myeloma care.
A new study published in Cancer reveals stark racial and insurance-related disparities in access to autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) — a treatment that significantly improves survival. Analyzing real-world data from nearly 5,000 patients, researchers found that Black patients and those covered by Medicaid were substantially less likely to receive ASCT, even after adjusting for clinical and demographic factors.
The findings are particularly striking because ASCT was associated with a 41% reduction in overall mortality, yet Black patients remained less likely to receive it regardless of age group. Medicaid coverage — which was far more prevalent among Black patients — was independently linked to lower ASCT rates and worse survival outcomes, especially in patients under 65. Notably, Medicaid expansion did not meaningfully improve ASCT access or survival.
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Why it matters: These findings underscore that insurance expansion alone isn't enough to eliminate treatment disparities. Closing the gap will require targeted interventions — equitable referral practices, patient navigation support, and consistent transplant policies — to ensure all MM patients have a fair shot at the most effective therapies.
