Dr. Christopher Lathan, an oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, has developed an innovative program aimed at reducing disparities in cancer care for underserved communities in Boston.
The Cancer Care Equity Program, launched in 2012 with funding from the Kraft Family Foundation, brings Dana-Farber specialists directly to Federally Qualified Health Centers. Working alongside primary care doctors, the program provides patients easier access to cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment options.
Motivated by personal experiences with inequality in healthcare, Dr. Lathan designed the program to address gaps that prevent vulnerable populations from receiving timely cancer care. A key component is a nurse navigator who facilitates patient care between community health centers and Dana-Farber.
Early results show promising outcomes, with time to cancer diagnosis dropping from 32 to 12 days at participating health centers. The program has also increased clinical trial participation among underserved patients.
“What we hope to show is that it’s not just helpful. It’s not just the right thing to do. But it’s actually going to have a measurable difference,” said Dr. Lathan. He hopes to expand the successful model to reach more patients in need.
See “Dana-Farber doctor designs program to address disparities in cancer care” (October 12, 2023)
