Bringing Specialized Cancer Care Closer to Patients: A New Italy-Wide Collaboration
A new partnership between the Spazio Salute Polyclinic in Lamezia Terme and the Centro Clinico Senologico (CCS) of Pisa is set to improve access to specialized breast cancer care for patients in the Calabria region. This collaboration, expected to launch within the Asp’s technical timelines, aims to bring expert diagnostics and treatment options closer to home, reducing the demand for patients to travel long distances for care.
The Pisa Model: A Center of Excellence
The Centro Clinico Senologico of Pisa is a leading Italian institution, ranking tenth nationally in the volume of breast cancer cases treated. The center sees approximately 700 new patients annually, performing over 1200 surgical procedures with two operating rooms in constant use. Its commitment to quality is underscored by its 2020 Eusoma certification, a European standard for breast cancer care.
Personalized Care: From Diagnosis to Treatment
The collaboration will allow patients in Lamezia Terme to receive comprehensive care, starting with diagnostic imaging – including radiological and mammographic assessments. Doctors will evaluate each case to determine the most appropriate treatment path, whether surgical or medical-chemotherapeutic, based on the specific characteristics of the cancer. The goal is to provide personalized medicine, and to facilitate access to the Pisa center for surgery and hospitalization when necessary.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities and Patient Needs
Doctors at the CCS of Pisa already treat patients from across Italy. Recognizing the logistical and financial burdens faced by those traveling from outside the region, this partnership seeks to alleviate those challenges. The initiative isn’t intended to compete with the regional public healthcare system, but rather to address the significant issue of “health emigration” – with data showing that 54% of patients in the Calabria region seek cancer care elsewhere.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Breast Cancer
The CCS of Pisa distinguishes itself through its multidisciplinary team. Beyond surgeons, the center includes specialists such as physiotherapists (crucial for managing post-operative lymphedema), a psycho-oncologist, a geneticist (for analyzing genetic factors related to cancer), a gynecologist (to assess fertility preservation options), and plastic surgeons. This holistic approach extends to reconstructive surgery, with a focus on oncoplasty – techniques designed to restore the breast to its pre-surgery appearance, improving patients’ quality of life.
Expanding the Network of Excellence
This partnership builds on existing collaborations between the Spazio Salute Polyclinic and other leading Italian institutions, including the IEO, Galeazzi, and, soon, the Gaslini Institute, across specialties like cardiology, orthopedics, and urology. The success of this initiative is attributed to the efforts of Dr. Claudia Cimino of the University of Pisa and the Spazio Salute staff.
Future Trends in Regionalized Cancer Care
This collaboration highlights a growing trend in healthcare: the development of regional networks of excellence to improve access to specialized care. Several factors are driving this shift.
Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring
While this partnership focuses on bringing specialists to a local clinic, telemedicine is playing an increasingly important role in extending the reach of expert care. Remote monitoring technologies allow doctors to track patients’ progress between appointments, providing timely interventions and reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.
Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics
AI-powered diagnostic tools are becoming more sophisticated, assisting radiologists in identifying subtle signs of cancer on imaging scans. This can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses, improving treatment outcomes. AI can also help personalize treatment plans based on a patient’s individual characteristics.
The Rise of Personalized Oncology
As highlighted by the CCS of Pisa’s approach, personalized oncology is gaining momentum. This involves tailoring treatment to the specific genetic and molecular profile of a patient’s cancer, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing side effects. Advances in genomic sequencing are making personalized oncology more accessible.
Focus on Survivorship and Quality of Life
With increasing survival rates, there’s a growing emphasis on improving the quality of life for cancer survivors. This includes addressing physical and emotional challenges, providing rehabilitation services, and offering support groups. The CCS of Pisa’s inclusion of a psycho-oncologist and focus on reconstructive surgery reflects this trend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of breast cancer will be treated at the Lamezia Terme Polyclinic?
A: The collaboration will address all types of breast cancer, with a focus on personalized treatment plans based on individual patient needs.
Q: Will this collaboration replace existing regional cancer services?
A: No, the goal is to supplement existing services and address the high rate of patients traveling outside the region for cancer care.
Q: How can patients access this new service?
A: Patients can discuss referrals with their primary care physicians, who can then coordinate access to the Spazio Salute Polyclinic.
Q: What is oncoplasty?
A: Oncoplasty is a surgical technique that combines cancer removal with immediate reconstruction, aiming to preserve the breast’s shape and appearance.
Did you know? Approximately 54% of patients in the Calabria region travel outside the region to receive cancer treatment, highlighting the need for improved local access to specialized care.
Pro Tip: Early detection is crucial for successful breast cancer treatment. Regular self-exams and mammograms are essential for women of all ages.
Learn more about breast cancer prevention and treatment by visiting the Centro Clinico Senologico – Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana website.
Have questions or thoughts about this exciting new collaboration? Share your comments below!
