Enhancing cancer survivorship through improved provider communication, care coordination, and professional education.

Authors

null

John M. Daly

Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA

John M. Daly , Alan G. Howald , Kelly Ann Filchner , Bonnie J. Miller , Leanne Lyons , Crystal Shereen Denlinger , Patrick O'Brien , Amanda Schlueter , Evelyn Gonzalez , Jennifer Seggev

Organizations

Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, PA

Research Funding

No funding sources reported

Background: Care coordination among oncology and primary care physicians (PCPs) is an essential element of survivorship care. Providers at an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center noted gaps in coordinating care with PCPs. We sought to develop a program that enhances communication and education between provider groups to ensure a seamless continuum of care thereby improving overall survivorship care. Methods: The Fox Chase Cancer Center (FCCC) Care Connect program was created to comprehensively connect PCPs in the regional service area with cancer center providers. Program participation requirements for PCP’s include attendance at 2 of 4 targeted professional education programs and participation in quality measures for breast, cervical, and colon cancer screening. Formalized processes to efficiently move patients between oncologists and PCP’s were established. Communication gaps were addressed by providing electronic access via a secure physician portal, access to FCCC disease navigation services, and establishment of designated referral navigators to coordinate clinical needs between provider groups. Results: FCCC initiated the Care Connect program with 5 PCP practices. During a 3 month pilot phase, FCCC directed 19 patients to Care Connect PCP’s to manage ongoing clinical needs and implement survivorship plans. Eight-six percent of referrals were classified as non-urgent. Median time from referral to PCP appointment was 16 days, 24% below regional average. One CME education program was conducted during the pilot phase. Of the attendees, 91% reported an intent to change current practice by implementing a new procedure, discussing new information or seek additional information. Attendees identified potential care barriers which will be included in future program development. Post-education, one practice referred 3 patients to the lung cancer screening program. Conclusions: A formal program that aligns PCPs and oncologists is an effective initiative to improve communication and awareness of cancer patient survivorship needs in oncology and primary care settings.

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Abstract Details

Meeting

2016 Cancer Survivorship Symposium

Session Type

Poster Session

Session Title

Poster Session A

Track

Care Coordination and Financial Implications,Communication,Late- and Long-term Effects/Comorbidities,Health Promotion,Psychosocial Issues,Recurrence and Secondary Malignancies

Sub Track

Oncology/Primary Care Communication Coordination

Citation

J Clin Oncol 34, 2016 (suppl 3S; abstr 104)

DOI

10.1200/jco.2016.34.3_suppl.104

Abstract #

104

Poster Bd #

N4

Abstract Disclosures

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