Since the 2006 Institute of Medicine report focusing on the transition of cancer survivors from oncology to primary care settings, there has been growing interest in evaluating the readiness to care for this patient population by primary care providers (PCPs) and the mechanisms that may be used to facilitate the transition from oncology settings. Study findings have shown that although PCPs are often willing to care for cancer survivors, they may lack confidence and skills.
Larissa Nekhlyudov, MD, MPH, Associate Professor, has authored an article in Oncologist discussing the role of general internists in the management of cancer patients. Specifically, the article proposes 4 models for integrating primary care into cancer survivorship programs and has outlined the advantages and disadvantages of each model.
Models range from survivorship care “expert” PCPs offering either comprehensive continuity of care or consultative care in a cancer center, to designated PCPs in local practices, to community-based PCPs without specific survivorship expertise.
According to Dr. Nekhlyudov, the increasing population of cancer survivors necessitates more efficient management of their cancer and noncancer-related needs and would benefit from the involvement of primary care providers. Evaluation of innovative models of cancer survivorship care is clearly needed.
To read a subsequent interview with Dr. Nekhlyudov in the ASCO Post click here.