May 2008 - Theme Issue

More than 26% of cancer patients see CAM providers, primarily for musculoskeletal problems; use does not vary by treatment phase, and associated expenditures are low.

The analysis examines the annual economic effect of medically treating patients with prostate cancer and subsequent bone metastases.

Using a prioritization algorithm in an oncology pharmacy system at the Johns Hopkins University, patient wait times for chemotherapy administration were significantly decreased.

Using health insurance claims, we identified common first-, second-, and third-line chemotherapy regimens for patients with lung cancer and associated utilization and costs of care.

This study showed better outcomes for disabled Medicare patients with breast cancer but not those with lung cancer when they were enrolled in HMOs.

In 2006, the NCQA began reporting colorectal cancer screening rates of member plans as a HEDIS measure, which is associated with Pennsylvania health system changes.

The article reviews the current state of knowledge regarding screening guidelines for older adults and gives recommendations for healthcare providers working with older adults.

The Guest Editors set the context for this special collection of oncology-focused articles.