Radiation treatment waiting times for breast cancer patients in Manitoba, 2001 and 2005

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: The purpose of this study was to examine the wait time from ready-to-treat to radiation therapy for cohorts of breast cancer patients requiring adjuvant radiation therapy in 2001 and in 2005, after the implementation of strategies to reduce wait times for radiation treatment. We also examined the overall time from diagnosis to radiation treatment and whether distance from the cancer treatment center or month of referral had an effect on wait times. Methods: A population-based retrospective study of patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer in 2001 and 2005 was done. Patients who required radiation treatment to the breast or chest wall were followed from first contact to the start of radiation treatment. Results: Time from ready-to-treat to first radiation treatment was significantly reduced for patients in 2005 compared to 2001, regardless of whether chemotherapy was or was not administered prior to radiation treatment. Time from diagnosis to radiation treatment was not different by year for those who only received radiation. Time from diagnosis to chemotherapy was significantly longer in 2005. No effect of month of diagnosis on wait times could be seen. Interpretation: A significant improvement in median wait times from ready-to-treat to first radiation treatment was noted from 2001 to 2005 and may be attributable to measures taken to reduce such times. However, there was an increase in the median time from diagnosis to referral and from referral to consultation with Medical and/or Radiation Oncology, so that overall time from diagnosis to radiation treatment was not different. Although specific intervals related to radiation treatment delivery were improved, the entire trajectory of breast cancer care experienced by the patient needs to be considered.