The important role of general practice in the care of cancer survivors
Michael Jefford, Bogda Koczwara, Jon Emery, Elysia Thornton‐Benko, Janette L. Vardy
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The number of people living with and beyond cancer is increasing substantially. Primary care has an important role in the ongoing management of cancer survivors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to outline common concerns of cancer survivors, evidence to support the role of general practitioners (GP) in survivorship care and key aspects of primary care-led survivorship care. DISCUSSION: Clinical trials have shown that, in particular circumstances and with well‑designed models, GP-led care is as effective as oncology specialist-led care. Regardless of the model of care, general practice has key roles in care coordination, management of multimorbidity, secondary prevention and health promotion, management of psychosocial care and promotion of self-management. Communication and collaboration between GPs and specialist cancer services is critical to support patients and healthcare providers in the delivery of care.