Several studies (including randomized clinical trials) have demonstrated that surveillance following definitive cancer therapy can be performed equally well, and in a more patient-centered fashion, within a primary care setting. With the substantial increase in cancer survivors, the traditional practice of providing routine follow-up care through specialist cancer centres is placing rising demands and competing with other care delivery functions of such centres. Primary care providers are both willing to provide follow-up cancer care and have repeatedly assumed such responsibility. Despite this, the transition to primary care in Canada has been both variable and incomplete.
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