[Rapid outpatient diagnostic pathways for lung cancer: Evaluation after one year]

Abstract

Introduction: The introduction of coordinated care pathways for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is a complex process. The purpose of the French Cancer Plan 2014-2019 was to improve referral to treatment waiting times in people with suspected malignancy. The aim of this study was to assess a rapid outpatient diagnostic program for lung cancer established in 2016.

Method: This retrospective study was carried out in the Pulmonology Department at Tenon Hospital, Paris, France between May 2016 and May 2017.

Results: During this period, 118 patients (60%) of patients in the pathway were diagnosed with lung cancer. The median waiting time to first consultation (D1) was 4 (2-7) days. The median waiting time between diagnosis and treatment decision (D4) was 4 (0-8) days. The median waiting time to the first treatment (D5) was 10 (4-15) days for chemotherapy and 27 (16-34) days for surgery. The median waiting time between the first abnormal chest X-ray and the first treatment (D6) was 49 days (34-70).

Conclusion: Referral to treatment waiting times was consistent with international recommendations. Coordinating nurses improved care pathways in lung cancer patients.

Keywords: Ambulatoire; Cancer du poumon; Centre diagnostic rapide; Coordination nurses; Délais de prise en charge; IDE de coordination; Lung Cancer Care Coordination program; Outpatient; Timeliness of Care.