Implementation and assessment of a fast-track programme to improve communication between primary and specialized care in patients with suspected cancer: how to shorten time between initial symptoms of cancer, diagnosis and initiation of treatment.

PURPOSE: This study aims to asses a cancer fast-track programme (CFP) to shorten the time since a patient with suspicion of cancer is referred by the primary care (PC) physician to the specialized medical team. METHODS: Guidelines for main suspected tumours were designed to help PC physicians to detect and rapidly refer cases to the CFP oncology coordinator, who sent them to the appropriate department to accelerate diagnosis, staging and therapy. All patients analysed in this report were referred from June 2009 to July 2012. RESULTS: A total of 897 suspected cancer cases were submitted and finally 705 were studied. In 205 (29 %) a cancer diagnosis was confirmed within 23 days (median). Therapy was initiated within 46 days after referral (median). Early diagnoses with a potential curative approach were made in 166 (82 %). CONCLUSIONS: This CFP decreased the waiting time for cancer diagnosis, by improving communication between PC physician and specialized care teams. Most patients included in this program could get therapy with curative intent.