The effect of diagnostic assessment programs on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with lung cancer in Ontario, Canada

INTRODUCTION: Diagnostic assessment programs (DAPs) were implemented in Ontario, Canada, to improve the efficiency of the lung cancer care continuum. We compared the efficiency and effectiveness of care provided to patients in DAPs relative to usual care (non-DAPs). METHODS: Lung cancer patients diagnosed between 2014 and 2016 were identified from the Ontario Cancer Registry. Using administrative databases, we identified various health-care encounters 6 months before diagnosis until the start of treatment and compared utilization patterns, timing, and overall survival between DAP and non-DAP patients. RESULTS: DAP patients were younger (P Conclusion: DAPs provided earlier treatment and better access to care, potentially improving survival. Quality improvement opportunities include reducing unnecessary or duplicate testing and characterizing patients who are diagnosed emergently.