Understanding the patient journey to diagnosis of lung cancer

Abstract Objective This research describes the clinical pathway and characteristics of two cohorts patients. The first cohort consists patients with a confirmed diagnosis lung cancer while second solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) no evidence cancer. Linked data from an electronic medical record Louisiana Tumor Registry were used in this investigation. Materials methods REACHnet is one 9 networks (CRNs) PCORnet®, National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network includes health records for over 8 million multiple partner systems. Data Ochsner Health System Tulane Medical Center linked to (LTR), statewide population-based registry, analysis patient’s pathways between July 2013 2017. Patient services utilization rates by stage reported as frequency distributions. Kaplan-Meier product limit method was estimate time index date cohort. Results A total 30,559 potentially eligible identified 2929 (9.58%) had primary Of these, 1496 (51.1%) documented LTR their further studied. Time varied significantly stage. 24,140 SPN 15,978 (66.6%) follow up care 1 year. 1612 (10%) any work SPN. remaining 14,366 some up, primarily office visits additional chest imaging. Conclusion In both biopsies evident pathway. Despite workup, 70% III or IV disease. cohort, only 66% receiving diagnostic work-up.