Physician involvement and assessment in the development of hospital oncology programs

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities are focusing resources on the care of the cancer patient. Physicians should become involved in all aspects of the development of oncology programs. Physicians need to be involved from the initial program development, through the strategic planning to the formulation of the business plan. Strong physician leadership is needed to coordinate care provided by physicians and ancillary staff. Educational programs for patients, their families, and physicians need to be developed by the medical director, physicians, and ancillary staff. Continuing evaluation and assessment of the entire cancer program is essential to monitor the achievement of goals and objectives set forth in the strategic plan.