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2011-08-09

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cc-by-nc-sa (c) Prades, J. et al., 2011
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/59703

Implementing a Cancer Fast-track programme between primary and specialised care in Catalonia(Spain): amixed methods study

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http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/bjc.2011.308

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The Cancer Fast-track Programme's aim was to reduce the time that elapsed between well-founded suspicion of breast, colorectal and lung cancer and the start of initial treatment in Catalonia (Spain). We sought to analyse its implementation and overall effectiveness. METHODS: A quantitative analysis of the programme was performed using data generated by the hospitals on the basis of seven fast-track monitoring indicators for the period 2006-2009. In addition, we conducted a qualitative study, based on 83 semistructured interviews with primary and specialised health professionals and health administrators, to obtain their perception of the programme's implementation. RESULTS: About half of all new patients with breast, lung or colorectal cancer were diagnosed via the fast track, though the cancer detection rate declined across the period. Mean time from detection of suspected cancer in primary care to start of initial treatment was 32 days for breast, 30 for colorectal and 37 for lung cancer (2009). Professionals associated with the implementation of the programme showed that general practitioners faced with suspicion of cancer had changed their conduct with the aim of preventing lags. Furthermore, hospitals were found to have pursued three specific implementation strategies (top-down, consensus-based and participatory), which made for the cohesion and sustainability of the circuits. CONCLUSION: The programme has contributed to speeding up diagnostic assessment and treatment of patients with suspicion of cancer, and to clarifying the patient pathway between primary and specialised care.

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Càncer de mama, Càncer colorectal, Càncer de pulmó, Atenció primària, Programes de prevenció, Catalunya

Subject (English)

Breast cancer, Colorectal cancer, Lung cancer, Primary health care, Prevention programs, Catalonia

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Articles publicats en revistes (Ciències Clíniques)
Articles publicats en revistes (Institut d'lnvestigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL))

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PRADES, Joan, et al. Implementing a Cancer Fast-track programme between primary and specialised care in Catalonia(Spain): amixed methods study. British Journal of Cancer. 2011. Vol. 105, num. 6, pags. 753-759. ISSN 0007-0920. [consulted: 16 of August of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/59703

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