#United States #New York #NYCBS #Psycho-oncology #Protocol Health

A New Era of Integrated Care for Cancer Patients in New York

In a pioneering move to enhance the care of cancer patients, Protocol Behavioral Health has partnered with New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS). This collaboration aims to merge invaluable behavioral health services directly into the oncology care system, significantly improving patient experiences across New York State, including Long Island, New York City, and the Hudson Valley.

Understanding the Need for Integrated Care

Research shows that nearly half of advanced cancer patients grapple with psychiatric disorders, and the incidence of depression in cancer patients is alarming, being up to three times higher than that of the general population. Despite the pressing need, only a mere 5% of these patients consult a mental health professional, while an overwhelming 73% go untreated, indicating a critical gap in healthcare delivery.

The challenge is particularly pronounced in large oncology networks, where patients experience fragmented services and lack seamless access to the psychological support they require. Hence, the partnership between Protocol and NYCBS seeks to address and bridge this gap by integrating behavioral health into the overall treatment paradigm.

A Collaborative Model of Care

NYCBS has already established a robust support system, offering survivorship care, nutrition counseling, and innovative remote monitoring solutions. Protocol's model is designed to complement these existing programs rather than replace them. Behavioral health care managers will work directly alongside the oncology teams, ensuring patients navigate their treatment seamlessly within one interconnected framework rather than facing the hassle of multiple referrals.

Dr. MaryAnn Fragola, DNP, Chief of Wellness Services at NYCBS, highlighted the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of cancer alongside physical treatment. She remarked, “For nearly 25 years, I’ve cared for patients navigating some of the hardest days of their lives, and treating cancer without addressing the whole person leaves a gap in care.” This sentiment underscores the necessity of treating the emotional and psychological dimensions of cancer, ensuring that patients do not face their journey alone.

Jack Fitzgibbons, Co-Founder and CEO of Protocol, echoed this vision by stating, “When we started Protocol, we believed oncology practices needed a partner to enhance their patients’ mental health care, and that’s what we’re providing.” With NYCBS, a distinguished name in the community oncology sphere, this collaboration represents a significant step towards more compassionate and comprehensive cancer care.

Access and Outcomes

Patients referred to Protocol’s services will see behavioral health care managers within 48 hours, marking a move towards faster and more accessible treatment. The collaborative care model (CoCM) they employ is recognized by national guidelines as essential for managing distress in oncology settings, ensuring that psychological support becomes a standard part of the treatment regimen.

The statistics speak for themselves: Protocol’s research has demonstrated that over 78% of high-acuity patients noticed a significant reduction in symptoms during their treatment period. As NYCBS integrates Protocol’s services, patients will benefit from this proven success rate, possibly improving their overall treatment outcomes.

As this partnership unfolds, it marks not only a significant milestone for Protocol’s expansion strategy across New York but also sets a precedent for how behavioral health can be effectively integrated into oncological practices nationwide. Future collaborations are anticipated, further solidifying this integrated care approach as a fundamental aspect of cancer treatment in the U.S.

Conclusion

As healthcare evolves, the integration of behavioral health within cancer care is becoming increasingly recognized as not just beneficial, but essential. Through this partnership, Protocol Behavioral Health and New York Cancer & Blood Specialists are not just addressing a medical need; they are fostering a more holistic approach to patient well-being. This collaboration illustrates a growing awareness that caring for the whole person, mentally and physically, is the gold standard of treatment that patients with cancer rightfully deserve.