Regionalization of care in head and neck cancer: Concept and considerations

Abstract

Head and neck cancer is an infrequent disease, with complex medical and surgical mana- gement. The regionalization of care, defined as the concentration of patients with complex diseases, in institutions that present highly experienced and highly functional multidiscipli- nary teams, may be an efficient alternative to achieve better oncological outcomes. Current- ly, there is evidence that supports this strategy, accounting for better oncological outcomes in institutions with higher volume; that have greater compliance to evidence-based gui- delines and quality indicators; and that present a multidisciplinary team in charge of the decision-making process in these patients. The population of Ontario, Canada, is framed as one of the examples of this strategy, managing to improve its results while maintaining a high level of quality in its management. The aim of this review paper is to systematize the current knowledge regarding head and neck regionalization of cancer care and its impact in the practice of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.