Hospitals in pursuit of excellence

Innovative Clinical Pathways in Lung Cancer

Diagnostic care for patients referred within the institution for suspicious lung lesions was variable, complicated and inefficient. Particular demographic groups are at higher risk having a prolonged time from initial presentation to diagnosis, or being lost to follow up completely. Created was an innovative clinical pathway to improve care for vulnerable patients with suspected lung cancer which employed a clinical strategist role to 1) ensure diagnostic interventions were most clinically appropriate, 2) improve logistical coordination, and 3) serve as resource and advocate for referred patients.