The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center has launched a Lung Cancer Rapid Access Program to expedite care for patients with recent lung cancer diagnoses.
The program aims to connect patients with lung cancer specialists within two days of referral. During their initial visit, patients are evaluated by a specialist who orders all necessary diagnostic testing. Patients then receive a personalized treatment plan developed by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians.
The cancer center also integrates support services — including palliative care, nutrition and social work — into treatment plans.
“Timely access to specialized care is critical in improving survival and reducing the emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis,” Sandra Starnes, MD, thoracic surgeon and physician-researcher at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, said in a Nov. 18 news release. “This program is a transformative step forward — by eliminating delays and coordinating care from day one, we’re delivering a model that prioritizes the patient experience and drives better clinical outcomes.”
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