Document Type

Capstone

Abstract

The complexity of treating patients with cancer is becoming an increasingly important priority for healthcare providers due to the risk associated with complications. Cancer patients may frequently visit an emergency department and put themselves at risk of acquiring other illnesses due to having an immunocompromised system. Unfortunately, emergency departments lack the resources and knowledge to care for patients who are undergoing cancer treatments, which can result in fragmentation of care. Consequently, Oncology Urgent Care clinics are becoming more prevalent in many health systems to bridge the gap between outpatient care and emergency room care. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study investigates patient outcomes, implementation, and operational functions within an Oncology Urgent Care clinic. Findings from my research and observations demonstrate positive outcomes that have transformed how acute oncology care models have benefited cancer patients such as having specialized care teams, lowering hospitalizations, and fewer emergency department visits. However, challenges were noted through a lack of awareness and education to cancer patients that these services are offered, standardization of triage protocols, and accountability for using the system-wide flowsheet for documentation. The highlights in this study demonstrate a patient-centered innovation with promising outcomes. Additional research to comprehend the long-term impact of these clinics is needed to understand the full impact of clinical care, quality of care, and cost-effectiveness.

Publication Date

7-2025

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