Integrative model is advised for cancer control in primary care

(HealthDay)—An integrative model incorporating cancer care into primary care is recommended for addressing the increasing burden of cancer control, according to a commission piece published online Sept. 29 in The Lancet Oncology.

Noting that cancer control is increasingly emphasizing prevention, early diagnosis, and patient experience during and after treatment, Greg Rubin, M.B.B.S., from Durham University in the United Kingdom, and colleagues discuss the expanding role of primary care in cancer control.

The authors identified aspects of care at all stages of the cancer pathway that suggest positive benefits of input from primary care. The dominant theme emphasized was that of integration of care, which is considered vital to improving the quality of care. In order to ensure that care integration becomes a reality, health policy needs to actively involve community-based provision of services and ensure that primary care is available, affordable, trusted, and valued. Furthermore, the curricula relevant to cancer care should be made consistent between countries, with use of clinical audit and feedback as a tool for quality improvement.

"A strong theme of integration of care runs throughout, and its elements (clinical, vertical, and functional) and the tools needed for integrated working are described in detail," the authors write. "All of this change, as it evolves, will need to be underpinned by new research and by continuing and shared multiprofessional development."

Several authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry.

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