IOM Report on High-Quality Cancer Care

Today, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released its report, “Delivering High-Quality Cancer Care: Charting a New Course for a System in Crisis.” According to the IOM, the American cancer care system often is not patient-centered, does not provide well-coordinated care, and does not encourage evidence-based treatment decisions.

NCCS is a sponsor of the IOM report, along with other patient advocacy organizations, professional societies, and government agencies. As a leader in advocating for quality cancer care from the moment of diagnosis, through treatment and beyond, NCCS commends the IOM for its recognition of the challenges facing the cancer care delivery system and supports the findings and recommendations.

The report proposes a framework for improving quality cancer care that puts engaged patients at the center and emphasizes informed decision-making. A key recommendation to support the goal of engaged patients is as follows:

“The cancer care team should collaborate with their patients to develop a care plan that reflects their patients’ needs, values, and preferences, and considers palliative care needs and psychosocial support across the cancer care continuum.”

H.R. 2477, the Planning Actively for Cancer Treatment (PACT) Act, introduced by Representatives Lois Capps (D-CA) and Charles Boustany, Jr., M.D. (R-LA), would ensure that all Medicare patients have access to cancer care planning and coordination to improve patient health and reduce inefficiencies in the system. The PACT Act is a key legislative priority for NCCS and represents and important first step toward reforming the cancer care system.

Download the IOM report or view a video summary.

Learn more about the Planning Actively for Cancer Treatment (PACT) Act (H.R. 2477).