Survivorship care: models and programs

Abstract

Objectives: To review models of care for adult cancer survivors and the challenges in program development.

Data sources: Review of the literature.

Conclusion: As the number of cancer survivors continues to grow, so does the need to develop unique evidence-based programs and services for this population. Survivorship should become a distinct phase of care and include: surveillance for recurrence, evaluation of and treatment for medical and psychosocial consequences of treatment, recommendations for screening for new primary cancers, health promotion recommendations, and provision of a written care plan to the patient and other health professionals.

Implications for nursing practice: Many challenges remain to evaluating care models and actualizing clinical services nationally, but oncology nurses are uniquely positioned to take the lead in the care of cancer survivors of all ages.