“Shortening the lapse in time between an initial finding and determining a cancer diagnosis can make a world of difference in a patient’s outcome,” said Jane Temple, AGACNP, one of the medical oncology advanced practice providers running the clinic. “The Oncology Rapid Diagnostic Clinic reflects a patient-centered approach to cancer, using compassion, speed and expertise to deliver a diagnosis fast and eliminate any unnecessary delays to treatment.”
After a patient is referred to the program, the team at the Oncology Rapid Diagnostic Clinic reviews any testing or imaging that has already been done and schedules an appointment for the patient within 24 to 48 hours. During this initial visit, patients undergo a coordinated diagnostic workup, fast tracking further testing to deliver an accurate diagnosis quickly, which allows treatment to begin sooner.
“As an oncology provider, I have seen countless patients start their cancer journey with a long wait and a lot of uncertainty,” said Allison Dean, APRN, one of the medical oncology APPs running the clinic. “This clinic helps shorten the distance between worry and answers for those patients so they can feel empowered as they take the next steps toward treatment.”
Research has shown that longer periods of time between an initial finding or diagnosis and the start of treatment have been associated with significantly higher mortality across major cancers, emphasizing the urgency of timely treatment initiation.
“At the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, we’re redefining what cancer care looks like, and the Oncology Rapid Diagnostic Clinic is just the latest example of that,” said Davendra S. Sohal, MD, co-physician lead for the clinic. “Any delay in cancer care can be deadly. That’s why we’re working to remove all barriers for patients in need of a cancer diagnosis. Through this clinic, we create a personalized multidisciplinary care plan for everyone diagnosed with cancer, to ensure the best possible outcome as quickly as possible.”
Patients can be referred to the clinic for a variety of concerns or symptoms, including suspicious imaging findings, concerning lab abnormalities, masses or lesions, and unexplained weight loss or other systemic symptoms. Care providers can make a referral online, simplifying the process for patients and providers alike.
“The Oncology Rapid Diagnostic clinic streamlines referral pathways with specialized staff, offering one central location that expediates the diagnostic workup for patients whether they come in with a concerning finding or a more moderate symptom that could also be a sign of cancer,” said Edward A. Faber Jr., DO, MS, co-physician lead for the clinic. “The goal is to provide a frictionless and comforting way for patients to have their concerns addressed in a very timely manner.”
The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center leads the region’s most active clinical trials, offering more than 100 trial options for cancer patients. The Oncology Rapid Diagnostic Clinic enables patients to be evaluated for applicable trials early, connecting them to more treatment options.
The clinic is located inside the UC Cancer Center’s Blood Cancer Healing Center, which is the most comprehensive blood cancer center in the nation.
To learn more about the Oncology Rapid Diagnostic Clinic, patients are encouraged to call 513-585-UCCC or visit our website.
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About the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center
Leveraging cutting-edge research, active community engagement, and a dedication to training the next generation of cancer researchers and providers, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center is working to reduce the incidence, disparities, and societal consequences of cancer. The Cancer Center forms a formidable coalition of expertise boasting a membership of over 250 researchers and physician-scientists from the University of Cincinnati, a Top 35 public research university, UC Health, the region’s academic health center, and Cincinnati Children’s, the nation's top children’s hospital. With a robust portfolio of peer-reviewed cancer research grants, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center stands at the forefront of discovering innovative approaches for cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment and survival.
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