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Next Reply: Re:integrating palliative care into cancer program
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Post integrating palliative care into cancer program
Author: sgrommel
Date: Aug 28, 2008 1:58 pm
Hello!

The health care system I work for is working on developing a new model for cancer care delivery and plans to integrate palliative care services. This "patient centered" model will be implemented at multiple sites (large and small, local clinics, regional cancer centers, and hospitals).

I am on a task force representing palliative care, and I have been asked to estimate the optimal number of new cancer patients per palliative care FTE. Logistically, I see this as being a primarily outpatient service, led by an advance practice nurse, with physician backup. There will be support from preexisting social workers, chaplains, and an RN "cancer care coordinator" assigned to each patient. This service will be distinct from our inpatient PC consultation service.

The service would provide the usual complex symptom management, guidance for difficult decisions, and family support. Ballpark, I was thinking a caseload of 30 patients per week per 1 FTE palliative care nurse practitioner. Does this seem reasonable? Have any readers been involved in a similar initiative for cancer care?

I'd appreciate any opinions or guidance regarding this opportunity.

Thanks!
Steve Rommelfanger MD
Medical Director, Palliative Care
Aurora Health Care, Milwaukee WI
Replies: order by [Date] [Author] [Subject]
Re:integrating palliative care into cancer program (by SharolHerr on 09/03/2008)
The Ireland Cancer Center at the Virginia Commonwealth University has a premier program with oncology. Patrick Coyne, CNP is the coordinator for the program. They would probably be a wonderful resource to you as you develop your service lines with oncology. Sharol Herr, RN, Nurse Clinician/Education Coordinator, Mt. Carmel Health, Columbus, Ohio. A CAPC Palliative Care Leadership Center.

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