Clinical update: survivorship care--models and programs

Abstract

Objectives: To provide a clinical update of models of care for adult cancer survivors and the challenges in program development.

Data sources: Review of the literature.

Conclusion: In the 4 years since the publication of the original article, survivorship is becoming a distinct phase of cancer care that includes 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 treatment summary and care plan to the patient and other health professionals.

Implications for nursing practice: Implementing comprehensive services and evaluating care models continue to pose significant challenges for cancer care providers across the country; however, oncology nurses are uniquely positioned to take the lead in the care of cancer survivors of all ages and their role in the care of survivors is gaining recognition nationally and internationally.