COVID-19 and Cancer Center Operations: Lessons Learned From the NCCN Best Practices Committee

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Healthcare Management
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to cancer center operations.
• Adapting to new operational models became crucial for maintaining patient care.
• The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Committee assessed these adaptations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the operational status of cancer centers one year into the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify key initiatives and changes in cancer care delivery.
• To discuss the future implications of these changes on oncology services.

Main Methods:

• The NCCN Best Practices Committee, comprising senior leaders, conducted an evaluation.
• A webinar series in June 2021 featured experts sharing experiences.
• Discussions focused on network site utilization and telemedicine advancements.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in the utilization of network sites for cancer care.
• Substantial gains in telemedicine operations, including reimbursement.
• Expert insights were gathered on pandemic-driven operational shifts.

Conclusions:

• Network site expansion and telemedicine are pivotal in modern cancer care delivery.
• These adaptations offer valuable lessons for future healthcare resilience.
• The pandemic accelerated innovations in accessing and providing cancer services.