Optimizing Ambulatory Systemic Treatment Models of Care

Guideline Objective

The objective of this initiative was to formulate recommendations for ambulatory systemic treatment models of care, considering perspectives from patients, providers, cancer programs, and organizations. The aims of these recommendations are to:

• Optimize the utilization of health care resources, settings, and processes throughout the oncology clinic, oncology pharmacy, and systemic therapy suite.
• Enhance the experience of patients undergoing ambulatory systemic treatment.
• Improve the well-being of multidisciplinary team members involved in the delivery of this care.

Patient Population

Patients receiving systemic treatment for all cancers

Intended Guideline Users

Oncology physicians, oncology nursing, oncology pharmacists, psychosocial oncology and allied health professionals, primary care providers supporting cancer patients, healthcare administrators and organizations involved in the planning and delivery of cancer services

Research Questions

• What are the current challenges and gaps in the systemic treatment for cancer patients in Ontario, especially for underserved groups like First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Urban Indigenous (FNIMUI) communities, Francophone populations, and other equity-deserving groups?
• What recommendations can be made to optimize service delivery models for oncology providers and patients in Ontario, considering a variety of settings including oncology clinics, pharmacies, and systemic therapy suites?
• How can the system better address the unique access barriers faced by underserved groups in the context of systemic treatment for cancer?
• What are the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders (e.g., systemic treatment facilities, Regional Cancer Programs, Ontario Health) in achieving the proposed recommendations for improved systemic treatment delivery?
• How can the system ensure provider health and well-being while dealing with complex care requirements and provider burnout?
• What are the key enablers for success and considerations for implementing the proposed recommendations?