Does Integration of Advanced Practice Provider in Radiation Oncology Influence UCC Visit Rate of Head and Neck Cancer Patients Treated with Definitive Radiation Therapy?

Acute toxicities as a result of definitive radiation therapy (RT) +/- chemotherapy in head and neck cancer are severe and significant supportive care is needed for these patients. In order to complete the prescribed curative intent combined modality treatment, urgent care center (UCC) visits are common during treatment and may be needed even up to 8 weeks after the conclusion of all therapies resulting in substantial financial burden. Advanced Practice Practitioner (APP), whether a Nurse Practitioner or a Physician Assistant, who is integrated into the radiation oncology practice can be extremely valuable for these patients.

Source: International Journal of Radiation Oncology * Biology * Physics - March 12, 2020 Category: Radiology Authors: Y. Wu, S. Kitpanit, A. Lee, K. Schwed, N. Lee Tags: Toxicity, Quality of Life, Survivorship, Costs of Care Source Type: research