Optune has shown significant benefits for patients, but access to the device can vary depending on location and healthcare coverage. While Optune is FDA-approved for treating certain cancers, pathways to obtaining it can differ by country and healthcare system.
It is widely available in the USA, Japan, Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden and Israel
Understanding availability and access to Optune
ACCESS
Optune is available through three main routes
Funding pathways
Some major insurers, such as BUPA and Aviva, cover Optune for patients, as do some smaller ones, but not all insurers currently offer coverage. It’s worth checking with your insurer to see if Optune is included in your policy, as coverage may evolve over time.
Private health insurance
Clinical trials of Optune may be available in certain medical centres. If you’re interested in exploring this route, consult your treating consultant or contact us directly through the contact form, and we’ll help provide information.
We also have a list of current trials here - we do our best to keep this upto date, but if you have specific questions, please contact us
Clinical trials
If you do not have insurance coverage and there are no clinical trials available, self-pay is another option. Optune is an expensive treatment, with costs typically around £18,000 per month. However, prices may decrease over time, so it’s worth checking current pricing.
Self-pay
While Optune has proven benefits, securing access can still present challenges. Some patients may face difficulties obtaining the device through their healthcare provider or securing funding. Advocacy groups are actively working to make Optune more accessible, and exploring funding options or trial participation may help alleviate some of these barriers.
Currently, Optune is not available on the NHS, as it has not been reviewed by NICE. This is the subject for ongoing advocacy.
