Improving Cancer Care through Hospital-Territory Integration
The integration of hospitals and territories in oncology care is crucial for ensuring continuity of care and improving the quality of life for cancer patients. According to a recent document published by the Cipomo-FnomCeO Working Group, five operational levers can promote this integration: single governance, binding PDTAs, involvement of the family doctor, transmural oncologist, and structured care plans for the long life of patients. This document, shared with Fimmg and Sumai, was presented at the 30th Cipomo National Congress in Rome.
The Importance of Continuity of Care
Paolo Tralongo, president of Cipomo, emphasizes that the hospital-territory transition in oncology is vital for guaranteeing continuity of care and better quality of life, particularly in light of the chronic nature of many tumor diseases and the reduction in hospital beds. Filippo Anelli, president of FnomCeO, adds that the objective is to build a continuum of care guided by a multidisciplinary group, capable of guaranteeing appropriateness of care and sustainability of the NHS.
Successful Territorial Models
The document cites the territorial model of Piacenza as an example, which involved 2,132 patients and allowed 1.97 million kilometers of travel to be avoided, reducing CO₂ emissions by 241 tonnes. If extended nationwide, the estimated savings could exceed 70 million kilometers per year. This model demonstrates the potential of territorial models to reduce travel, fragmentation of care, and environmental impact, ultimately improving the lives of almost 4 million patients in Italy.
The Role of General Practitioners
Silvestro Scotti, Fimmg national secretary, and Letizia Angeli, who followed the project, stress that general practitioners play a crucial role in caring for cancer patients, representing a stable reference for the person throughout all phases of the disease. However, this role can only function effectively within a real integration with oncologists and local services. The essential tools for this integration include the single interoperable medical record, integrated into the Electronic Health Record, and the systematic monitoring of process and outcome indicators.
Implementation and Future Directions
The document will be shared with Agenas and the Ministry of Health to translate the five levers into regional operational lines. By implementing these levers, hospitals and territories can work together to provide better care for cancer patients, reducing fragmentation and improving outcomes. For more information, visit Here