A Breakdown of What You Need to Know

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting, especially when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Understanding the different types of medical practices available to you is crucial in selecting the right physician to join you on your cancer journey. Whether you are a patient, caregiver or someone seeking to understand the healthcare landscape, this article will provide valuable insights into community oncology practices and their benefits.

What Are Independent Medical Practices?

Independent medical practices are healthcare clinics run by physicians; community-based practices are often this type of facility. They operate outside the umbrella of a larger hospital, healthcare system or academic institution. Physicians own all or most of the practice, make all decisions and oversee every business operation, such as office and clinic management, financial health and payer negotiation, among other tasks.

Independent medical practices can vary in size. Some are small, with one physician, while others are large, with multiple physicians serving several clinic locations. These practices can offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments, and are known for their personalized care and direct patient-physician relationships.

The Role of Community-Based Practices in Healthcare

Community-based practices are rooted in local communities. Physicians focus on serving the health needs of the area’s residents. These practices typically make healthcare more accessible and affordable while offering the same or similar innovative, comprehensive care and treatments found in hospitals.

Patients do not have to forgo the quality of care provided by selecting a community-based practice rather than a hospital or healthcare system because these practices can offer patients the same opportunities and treatment plans.

Defining Community Oncology Practices

Community oncology practices are a subset of community-based practices that specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer and blood disorders. Many cancer patients prefer these clinics.

The Community Oncology Alliance (COA) shared that almost 55% of Americans who are battling cancer are currently receiving their care and treatment in community settings as opposed to hospital-based care. It is reported that community oncology practices across the nation treat over 900,000 patients each year.

Physicians practicing in community oncology practices typically are Board-certified medical oncologists and hematologists who are experienced in delivering comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, hematology, radiation therapy and surgical oncology services. While some physicians may be working toward Board certification, most have already achieved this qualification.

The practices may also offer additional services and resources to their patients, such as counseling, financial guidance, nutrition advice and pain management.

The Advantages of Community-Based Oncology Practices for Cancer Treatment

Community oncology practices offer several benefits for cancer patients. Two main benefits are that they provide high-quality care that is typically more accessible and cost-effective than hospital-based care.

Like hospitals and healthcare systems, these practices focus on the patient, offering personalized care plans and a holistic approach to treatment. They also positively impact patient outcomes and satisfaction because patients report higher satisfaction with receiving care and treatments in a community setting.

Here are some key patient benefits of community oncology practices that will be explored next:

• Accessibility and convenience.
• Cost-effectiveness.
• Personalized care and patient-centered approach.
• Integrated and holistic care.
• Positive impact on patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Accessibility and Convenience

Community oncology practices are situated in the communities where their patients live, making them more accessible than some hospital-based practices. Receiving care at a hospital or other healthcare system may require long travel times to and from appointments and treatments. Patients can receive care close to home from trusted and experienced physicians, reducing the stress and burden associated with travel.

Also, according to COA, patients who have selected community oncology practices usually start treatments sooner after diagnosis than what would be experienced in hospitals and other clinic settings. They typically do not have to wait as long for physician appointments, which is valuable to those battling cancer.

Cost-Effectiveness

These practices are often more cost-effective and provide the same high-quality care at a lower cost than hospital-based care — up to 50% less than hospital-based care according to COA. Two reasons contributing to its cost-effectiveness are the lower overhead costs and the ability to provide more efficient care.

On average, COA reported that patients who go to community oncology practices spend an estimated $35,774 per month compared to an estimated $60,697 that would be spent at a hospital or healthcare system for the same care.

Personalized Care and Patient-Centered Approach

Community oncology practices focus on the patient. They provide personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. This patient-centered approach leads to better patient engagement and satisfaction.

Related: The Importance of a Patient-Centric Approach

Integrated and Holistic Care

Physicians at community oncology practices provide integrated care and coordinate with other physicians to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. They focus on delivering holistic care, addressing not just the physical aspects of the cancer but also the emotional and psychological needs of the patients.

Impact on Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction

These practices have a positive impact on patient outcomes. They provide care that involves the latest cancer treatments, leading to improved survival rates and lower hospital readmission rates.

In fact, patients of community oncology practices are 29% less likely to end up in the emergency room after chemotherapy (COA reported). As mentioned, patients also report higher satisfaction with their care at community oncology practices.

Community Oncology Practices: A Pillar of Support for Patients and Families

Community oncology practices support patients and their families by delivering various services and resources to help patients navigate their cancer journeys. These practices understand the challenges patients and their families face and strive to provide a supportive environment where patients can focus on their treatment and recovery, not on travel and expenses.

Support Systems and Services

These practices offer various support systems and services, including care coordination services, financial counseling and access to supportive care services. These services help patients manage the complexities of cancer and can provide much-needed support and guidance.

The Importance of Community in Cancer Care

The sense of community is a key aspect of care in community oncology practices. Patients and their families often form strong bonds with the healthcare team and other patients.

This sense of community can provide emotional support and help patients feel less isolated. It can also foster a sense of empowerment and self-management, which are crucial for successful cancer treatments.

The Future of Community Oncology Practices

Community oncology practices are poised for growth and evolution. They continue to adapt to the changing healthcare landscape, embracing new technologies and treatment approaches often faster than hospitals and healthcare systems.

Their future lies in the ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered care, and their goal remains constant: improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients.

Embracing Innovation and Technology

Community oncology practices are at the forefront of innovation in cancer care, which is not always believed. For example, they leverage technology and telemedicine to improve patient care and outcomes.

These practices also use data-driven decision-making to enhance patient care and services. They can harness the power of technology to provide personalized, efficient and effective care.

The Role of Cancer Research and Clinical Trials

Community oncology practices play a significant role in cancer research and clinical trials. They provide patients with access to cutting-edge clinical trials in the community and facilitate their participation.

Additionally, these practices contribute to advancing cancer treatment options by helping drive innovation and improve patient outcomes through their involvement in research and clinical trials.

Here is an example of clinical trials in community oncology practices. American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing community oncology networks, has at least one practice participating in clinical research and four practices are designated strategic research sites for the Sarah Cannon Research Institute.

Furthermore, AON offers patients access to over 150 clinical trials conveniently located locally, allowing them to receive the latest treatments close to home. Lastly, the network helps practices conduct their own clinical trials, regardless of size, and build research programs.

Why Choose a Community Oncology Practice?

Choosing a community oncology practice for cancer care offers numerous benefits and is crucial in advancing cancer research and treatment options. Patients can receive comprehensive, integrated care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Moreover, they can receive care and treatment locally within their community.

Related: How to Make the Most Out of Your Oncology Appointment