Multidisciplinary treatment of breast cancer has evolved considerably over the last decade. Many patients are now receiving chemotherapy treatment prior to surgery (NAT). This requires considerable communication between surgery, radiology and medical oncology to ensure the timeline of patient treatments are within the acceptable standards of care.
Dr. Michael Horkoff, VJH general surgeon, will spearhead a new project “Breast Cancer NAT – Creating a Standardized Patient Care Pathway” supported through facility engagement funding. The education and creation of a standardized patient care pathway will occur amongst the specialists involved in the care of patients with breast cancer, including radiology, general surgery and medical oncology. A generic pathway will be presented to the stakeholders over one or two meetings, at which point discussion and recommended changes will be documented and implemented.
Objectives of the project are:
- To provide an update on the indications for neoadjuvant treatment for breast cancer to surgeons, radiologists and medical oncologists in Vernon involved in their care.
- To establish a standardized patient care pathway that includes the multiple specialists involved in these patients’ care.
Completion of the pathway is targeted for April 1, 2021. After implementation of the patient care pathway, a review of the patients involved will occur after 1 year to ensure that any difficulties encountered are addressed.