TREATMENT COMMITTEE
As a result of new treatments, many people with cancer are being cured of their disease or are living longer with a good quality of life. Cancer is still a difficult disease to treat, however, requiring complex therapy, often with one or more modalities. It is important that both health care providers and their patients have access to the latest treatment information, so they can better understand treatment choices. Patients need to be assured that services are geographically and financially available, that the treatment they receive is evidence-based and of high quality.
Connecticut's cancer treatment services are relatively well distributed throughout the state. Acute care hospitals, cancer centers, freestanding oncology centers, and private practices, along with appropriate support services, are accessible to most Connecticut residents. However, to ensure access to high quality care for all Connecticut residents, there is still progress to be made.
The Treatment Committee used the following information to help set its priorities.
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Standards of Care: There is no single readily available place to access treatment guidelines and information.
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Clinical Trials: Approximately 3-5% of adult patients participate in cancer clinical trials.
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Access to Treatment for Pain Control: Barriers exist in assuring access to treatment.
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Education for Health Professionals and Patients: There are barriers, both for patients and providers, to participate and enroll in cancer clinical trials.
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Hospital Accreditation and Nurse Certification: Only 67% of acute care hospitals in Connecticut are ACoS accredited.
The treatment goal of the 2009 - 2013 Connecticut Cancer Plan is:
Ensure that Connecticut residents will have access to high quality cancer care (evidence-based where possible) consistent throughout the state.
Click on the link below to download the Quality Treatment chapter of the Connecticut Cancer Plan.
The Continuum of Cancer Control: Quality Treatment
(PDF, 349KB)
