A new study published online today in the Journal of Oncology Practice examines practices, barriers and research opportunities related to the needs of cancer survivors being treated in integrated health care systems.  Study authors found that while health care providers are aware of the challenges and needs facing survivors, many were not familiar with standardized survivorship care plans.  They also report that approaches to providing care varied across the systems included in the study, offering unique opportunities to test innovative models of care. 

ASCO is helping to close the gap in survivorship care by providing oncologists with survivorship care plans based on specific evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. This document provides a convenient way to track and store information about cancer, treatment and follow up care. The Society is also dedicated to helping patients understand life after treatment, offering a new booklet on next steps for patients and families following active cancer treatment.