Opinion
Video
Continuity of Care During Maintenance Therapy
Author(s):
A discussion about how ensuring continuity of care for patients with AML on maintenance therapy with a focus on how the care team can coordinate to ensure best outcomes.
This is a synopsis of an Insights series featuring Catherine E. Lai, MD, MPH, of the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Catherine E. Lai discussed considerations for patients on maintenance therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after completing intensive chemotherapy. As patients transition back to normal life, it is important for those treated at academic centers to establish relationships with local community oncologists for co-management.
Treatment is individualized, but in general monthly follow-up is recommended to monitor blood counts and potential side effects, with more frequent visits for patients experiencing adverse effects. The goal is for maintenance therapy to not significantly impact quality of life.
Dr. Lai emphasized the need for discussion between academic and community providers to determine optimal monitoring plans for individual patients during maintenance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is that appropriate monitoring is conducted, whether by the academic center, community oncologist, or a collaborative effort.
In conclusion, Dr. Lai provided an overview of best practices for transitioning patients with AML from intensive therapy to maintenance treatment focused on quality of life. Communication between treatment teams is critical to develop individualized co-management and monitoring approaches. As therapy shifts to maintenance, patients can gradually resume normal activities with continued vigilance and care coordination by their healthcare providers.
*Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by OncLive editorial staff.
