Breast Immunology Network: Toward a Multidisciplinary and Integrated Model for Breast Cancer Care in Italy

Background: Breast cancer is the most common female cancer in Italy. Despite better survival rates, significant disparities in access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up persist across regions. We propose an integrated, multidisciplinary care model-the Breast Immunology Network (BIN)-to address these challenges. Methods: The model was developed through a two-phase expert consultation with key opinion leaders and stakeholders, aligned with national and European oncology guidelines. No new patient data were collected; this is a qualitative analysis based on expert consensus and existing literature. The proposed model integrates a Hub-and-Spoke cancer network structure with fully functioning multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), standardized care pathways (PDTA), and digital tools to ensure continuity of care. Results: Experts identified critical gaps in Italy's breast cancer care: limited access to specialized centers, inconsistent adherence to screening programs, and delays in treatment initiation. The proposed BIN model aims to bridge these gaps by enhancing collaboration across all care levels, incorporating immunotherapy where appropriate, and defining key performance indicators (KPIs) for continuous quality evaluation. For example, quantitative targets include achieving ≥65% nationwide mammography screening adherence and ensuring ≥90% of patients are treated in certified Breast Units. Conclusions: The Breast Immunology Network offers a strategic framework to improve equity, quality, and timeliness of breast cancer care in Italy. Importantly, unlike existing Hub-Spoke or CCCN models, the BIN formalizes governance tools, harmonized eligibility criteria, and a national registry for immunotherapy. By uniting Breast Units and community services under shared governance, and by integrating innovations such as immunotherapy and telemedicine, the BIN model could significantly improve clinical outcomes and ensure more equitable care for all patients. Its implementation may serve as a reference model for other health systems seeking to optimize oncology pathways through multidisciplinary integration and advanced treatments.