Structure of a physician assistant (PA)-managed survivorship practice within a multidisciplinary breast clinic
6087 Background: In the last two decades, success in breast cancer screening and treatment has resulted in evolution of a growing patient population with unique medical needs. The American Cancer Society currently estimates a 98% relative five-year survival rate for patients with localized breast cancer, 88% for all stages combined. Caring for survivors represents both opportunity and challenge for the medical community. The integrated team approach in a multidisciplinary breast center is the ideal model to incorporate PAs in providing comprehensive long-term surveillance and support in this setting. Methods: The core mission of a PA-managed survivorship practice is outlined as follows: Maximize health and quality of life in breast cancer survivors, recognizing physical, psychological and spiritual factors; Provide early detection of disease recurrence and/or new breast cancer occurrence in women with a breast cancer history; Aggressively manage and overcome problems resulting from breast cancer treatment; Aid women in understanding and overcoming risks, including genetic risks, for developing breast cancer. Evidenced-based algorithms defining standards of care create the foundation for clinical decision making and establish precedent for continuity of care. The scope of care is enhanced by opportunities to incorporate research and genetic counseling. Results: Of 205 patients seen between 9/1 and 12/31/2005, 48% were younger than 70, 55% were Stage I, 82% were less than 5 years post-treatment, 63% were on hormone therapy. Conclusions: With continued trends in breast cancer survival, specialized long-term surveillance and support is essential to providing quality, comprehensive care that addresses the unique medical needs of these patients. A PA-managed breast cancer survivorship practice within a multidisciplinary breast clinic not only provides forum for such endeavors, but also fosters opportunity for life-long partnership focusing on quality of life, health and well-being. [Table: see text] No significant financial relationships to disclose.