CANCER: Merits of active surveillance – watchful waiting

The approach of active surveillance, which is increasingly common with prostate cancer patients, is becoming more frequently discussed as an option for selected patients with other types of slow-growing, early-stage cancers also.  The author, who himself opted for active surveillance, reviews reasons why watchful waiting may be becoming more often chosen – primarily due to therapy side effects and cost.  Considerations for insurers in framing their positions about active surveillance are covered.

Source: Kirkner, R.M. (2016, Oct.). Don’t just do something, stand there: How more types of cancer are lending themselves to active surveillance. Managed Care, 25(10), 25-28.  Click here: http://www.managedcaremag.com/archives/2016/10/don-t-just-do-something-stand-there-how-more-types-cancer-are-lending-themselves   Posted by AHA Resource Center (312) 422.2050, rc@aha.org