Selecting patients for proton beam therapy.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Economics
• Medical Radiation Science

Background:

• The Australian Bragg Centre for Proton Therapy requires a robust patient selection framework.
• Equitable access and demonstrating cost-benefit for government investment are crucial.
• Focus is needed on patients with common cancers.

Discussion:

• Markov modelling presents a viable methodology for transparent and equitable patient selection.
• This approach can identify patients most likely to benefit from proton therapy.
• It aids in demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of the proton therapy investment.

Key Insights:

• Implementing a structured patient selection process is paramount for the new proton therapy centre.
• Markov modelling can facilitate objective and evidence-based patient stratification.
• Prioritizing common cancers ensures broader population benefit and efficient resource utilization.

Outlook:

• Further research should explore the adaptation of Markov modelling for diverse cancer types.
• The Centre's operational guidelines should integrate the proposed selection framework.
• Long-term studies can validate the cost-benefit outcomes of this selection strategy.