Photo: Emily Westergard, Fergus Falls, MN

The Case for Decentralizing Cancer Care

The concept of decentralizing cancer care involves shifting away from the centralized model predominant in urban areas towards more localized, community-based approaches in rural settings. By bringing comprehensive cancer treatment and specialized care closer to rural patients, decentralization aims to alleviate the burden of travel and improve access to timely care. Models like the "Rural Oncology Home" emphasize team-oriented care involving various medical specialists and supportive services, facilitated by advanced practice professionals and care coordination, ultimately striving to bridge the Rural Cancer Gap and enhance outcomes for rural cancer patients.