NCCN Framework for Resource Stratification: A Framework for Providing and Improving Global Quality Oncology Care

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Global Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Millions of new cancer cases and deaths occur annually, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries.
• Significant disparities exist in healthcare resources, including health workers and financial support, between high-income and low-income regions.
• These resource disparities are particularly pronounced in cancer care, impacting treatment accessibility and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a framework for stratifying National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines).
• To address the challenge of providing optimal cancer care in settings with varying available resources.
• To adapt existing cancer guidelines for diverse healthcare environments.

Main Methods:

• Development of the NCCN Framework for Resource Stratification (NCCN Framework).
• Modification of a method previously developed by the Breast Health Global Initiative.
• Identification of four distinct resource environments: basic, core, enhanced, and NCCN Guidelines.
• Presentation of recommendations in a graphic format maintaining NCCN Guidelines context.

Main Results:

• The NCCN Framework stratifies guidelines based on resource availability.
• The framework ensures recommendations remain within the context of established NCCN Guidelines.
• A portion of the NCCN Cervical Cancer Guideline was used as an example to illustrate the methodology.

Conclusions:

• Resource-stratified guidelines are essential for optimizing cancer care globally.
• The NCCN Framework provides a structured approach to adapt cancer treatment guidelines.
• This methodology facilitates equitable cancer care delivery across diverse resource settings.