A prototype multidisciplinary cancer screening clinic for the military medical facility

Optimal treatment of cancer depends upon early diagnosis. With an aging retiree and dependent population, cancer diagnosis and management must be addressed by military medical treatment facilities (MTFs) in a coherent and cost-effective fashion. A prototype multidisciplinary cancer screening clinic is described which interdigitated MTF and local American Cancer Society resources. Sites screened included breast, prostate, skin, cervix, and oral cavity, with mammograms, prostate-specific antigens, PAP smears, and physical exams, as appropriate. Of 194 patient contacts over a 4-hour period, eight cancers were found and subsequently treated (five skin, three prostate). Patient selection criteria, screening results by site, lessons learned, and recommendations for future clinics are discussed. The multidisciplinary screening clinic is readily applicable to the MTF setting, cost-effective, and provides an invaluable service to eligible patients.