What is Community Oncology

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.

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