The Critical Need for Collaboration Between Oncology and Primary Care in Cancer Survivorship

As advancements in cancer treatment continue to improve survival rates, the focus now shifts toward effective survivorship care. By 2032, it is projected that there will be approximately 22.5 million cancer survivors, increasing the demand for coordinated follow-up care. Recent research from the University of Missouri School of Medicine emphasizes the importance of integrating oncology and primary care practices to enhance patient outcomes.

Cancer survivorship care encompasses managing treatment side effects, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, monitoring for cancer recurrence, and screening for new cancers. However, the transition from active treatment to ongoing care is often fraught with challenges, including fragmented services and communication gaps among healthcare providers.

The study, which involved 57 women in survivorship, found that only about one-third had consistent follow-up with the same primary care clinician. This inconsistency can hinder the continuity of care and create confusion about roles and responsibilities between oncologists and primary care providers. Additionally, many primary care clinicians reported feeling underprepared to manage survivorship issues but expressed eagerness to undergo additional training.

Research indicates that models combining primary care and oncology — such as shared-care arrangements — can lead to comparable or superior patient outcomes. Supporting clinicians through online courses, workshops, webinars, and tele-mentoring programs like the Show-Me ECHO initiative can bridge educational gaps.

Experts suggest that fostering strong collaborations between oncology specialists and primary care providers can improve the overall quality of survivorship care. Future studies are aimed at understanding patient preferences and identifying what elements are most vital during post-treatment life. This approach ensures that cancer survivors receive comprehensive, coordinated support tailored to their needs.

This research, authored by Dr. Jane McElroy and Dr. Mirna Becevic, underscores the importance of seamless communication and ongoing education for healthcare providers to optimize survivorship outcomes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-experts-oncology-primary-cancer-patient.html