Heterogeneity of financial toxicity and associated risk factors for patients after cardiac surgery in China

The high morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are well known; however, the health impact of its financial toxicity (FT) is only beginning to be recognized. This study aims to identify and describe the potential categories of FT among patients with cardiovascular disease and to examine the association between FT profiles and individual characteristics. A cross-sectional study was conducted using 4 data collection tools: a self-designed general information questionnaire, the comprehensive score for FT (COST) scale, the perceived social support scale, and the medical coping modes questionnaire. Data from 204 patients at a tertiary hospital in Shandong Province, China, were analyzed using latent profile analysis, descriptive statistics, and multinomial logistic regression. This study included 204 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, predominantly male and over 60 years old, with 62.3% residing in rural areas. The mean COST of participation was 18.55 ± 8.44. latent profile analysis results indicated that a 3-profile model was most appropriate: high FT (32.4%), moderate FT (55.4%), and low FT (12.2%), with a high relative entropy value of 0.923. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified monthly income, employment status, education level, length of hospitalization, and insurance type as significant predictors of FT among patients undergoing cardiac surgery (P < .05). This study may provide a theoretical basis for developing intervention measures targeting FT in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Furthermore, it identifies risk factors associated with higher FT levels. Tailored interventions addressing modifiable factors should be implemented across different FT profiles to help healthcare providers deliver more person-centered care and support.