OBJECTIVES: Recently a major cancer center in the United States decided not to offer treatment using a newly launched oncology drug citing comparative effectiveness and cost as reasons.  This study looked at healthcare consumer opinions about the decision to restrict treatment options based on outcomes and price. METHODS: The nationally representative Truven Health PULSE Healthcare Survey gathered responses from 2,615 US households via landline telephone, cell phone or Internet. Respondents were asked their opinion regarding a decision by providers not to offer a new cancer treatment because it demonstrated the same benefit as an existing drug with the same side effects, but its cost was higher. Demographic data were gathered and respondents were asked if they are being/have been treated for cancer, and if a friend, family member or loved one is being/has been treated for cancer. RESULTS: Overall, 40.5% of respondents agreed with the decision; 37.5% disagreed.  Agreement with the decision varied with the respondents’ exposure to cancer.  Those who had a family member, friend or loved one with cancer were least likely to agree (36%), while those who not only had a family member, friend or loved one with cancer, but also had cancer themselves were the most likely to agree (50.8%). Respondents who had cancer themselves with no family member, friend or loved one with cancer or had no experience with cancer were equally likely to agree with the decision (44%) (P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that fear and experience may play roles in consumers’ opinions regarding restrictions on cancer medications.  Individuals who have experienced cancer may place more value on outcomes, side effects, and/or out-of-pocket costs than those with no personal experience or may have more realistic expectations for treatment. Additional research is warranted to better understand the drivers of consumer opinion regarding cancer treatment coverage decisions.