The Proliferation of Pathways in Oncology

Earlier this year, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) released a new policy statement, outlining its concerns that the use of clinical pathways in oncology may be posing significant barriers to providing high-quality, evidence-based cancer care. The Organization’s statement, which was published in the Journal of Oncology Practice, contained recommendations to ensure that clinical pathways in oncology promote - and not hinder - the care of patients with cancer. The statement also asserts that the way in which these treatment management tools have proliferated in oncology raises significant concerns about patient access, care quality, and transparency in pathway development and implementation. “It’s time to seriously examine the way clinical pathways are designed and implemented to ensure they consistently enhance, rather than diminish, patient care,” said ASCO President Julie M. Vose. “In too many cases, clinical pathways are undermining physicians’ ability to optimally care for their patients with cancer and limiting patient choice.” The popularity of pathways cannot be disputed – according to DKP Critical Insights “Clinical Pathways Overview and Provider Perspectives, 2015”, an estimated 60 individual health insurance plans in the US are currently implementing oncology pathways. Pathways differ from clinical guidelines; they are structured, multidisciplinary plans of care designed to support the implementation of clinical guidelines and pro...
Source: EyeForPharma - Category: Pharmaceuticals Authors: Source Type: news