Snapshot
- Growing Patient Numbers: The increasing number of cancer diagnoses necessitates innovative care solutions outside traditional healthcare settings.
- Symptom Management at Home: Offering patients an extension of the oncology team at their fingertips, ensuring they have support whenever they need it.
- Treatment Extension: While not suitable for all, many patients can safely and effectively receive cancer treatments at home, from oral med adherence to certain IV treatments.
Overview
Growing Patient Numbers
With the surge in cancer diagnoses, our healthcare infrastructure is stretched thin. The traditional model of clinics and hospitals is no longer sufficient to cater to the growing patient population. As Dan Nardi points out, we can’t solely rely on the “four walls of the healthcare system” to address this challenge.
Symptom Management at Home
One of the significant advantages of home-based care is the immediate symptom management it offers. Patients no longer need to wait for clinic hours or endure long waits in emergency rooms. With an extension of the oncology team available at all times, patients can receive timely care, whether it’s addressing post-chemo nausea at one in the morning or any other concern they might have.
Treatment Extension
While high-acuity patients undoubtedly require in-clinic care, a substantial portion of cancer patients can benefit from treatments administered at home. This includes oral medications, certain IV treatments, and more. The focus is on delivering high-quality, safe, and cost-effective treatments tailored to the patient’s needs and comfort.
In Conclusion
The future of cancer care lies beyond the confines of clinics and hospitals. As the number of patients continues to rise, the healthcare industry must adapt, innovate, and prioritize home-based care solutions. By doing so, we not only cater to the growing demand but also ensure that patients receive personalized, timely, and effective care in the comfort of their homes. As Dan Nardi aptly puts it, delivering cancer care at home and virtually is the key to future success in treating this disease
