Supportive care structures and fundings in French Comprehensive Cancer Centers: a national survey

Supportive care (SC) is an inherent part of cancer patient care in French Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs). However, even within the CCC network, little is known about available care for patients and the associated funding mechanisms. This study presents an overview of the supportive care offered by the CCCs in 2023.

Unicancer is a national federation of 20 French CCCs, private, nonprofit healthcare establishments specialized in oncology. This survey was carried out at a national level in 2023. Each CCC completed a structured questionnaire.

The support care services considered essential to the patient's care pathway by the National Cancer Institute are available to patients undergoing treatment in all CCCs. However, there are disparities, both in terms of access for post-treatment patients and their caregivers and in terms of access to a wider range of supportive care services. The level of structure and methods for coordinating supportive care within institutions vary among CCCs, as do the profile and number of healthcare professionals involved. Funding for supportive care, which also varies between establishments, is based on limited national and regional public funding, social security reimbursement, and sometimes on donations and legacies.

Supportive care is an essential component of the overall management of cancer patients in CCCs. However, its development varies from one hospital to another. There are many organizational and financial challenges to overcome in order to best meet the needs of all the patients being cared for. This survey may shed light on future developments in the organization and funding of supportive care in France and other countries.