The over-arching goal of this study is to develop a portable model for ED cancer treatment guidelines and management using evidence based protocols in a population at high risk for poor cancer -related outcomes by identifying & overcoming specific barriers to enhanced survivorship. Based on the demographics of ED population (currently, 70% racial/ethnic minorities), the majority of participants will be underrepresented (African-American and Hispanic) and low-income individuals. The investigators propose a feasibility study of 150 patients in the ED over a 1 year period.~The specific aims are:~Aim 1: Evaluate the effectiveness of ED Risk-Stratified, Evidence-Based Treatment protocols on the primary outcome of ED utilization rates and subsequent acute inpatient admissions at 6 -months post-intervention.~Aim 2: Evaluate the effectiveness of an ED-based Cancer Patient Navigator on the secondary outcomes of patient engagement and primary care engagement at 6 -months post-intervention.~Aim 3: Examine barriers and facilitators to compliance for cancer survivorship recommendations that occur in an ED setting at 6-months post intervention.
Significant challenges and gaps remain in navigating transitions between acute care and outpatient care for many cancer survivors. This study underscores 1) implementation of Emergency Department (ED) risk-stratified treatments protocols that standardize patient care and would allow for rapid re-assessment and access to specialist care with well-coordinated cancer care plans, and 2) the significant numbers of minority cancer survivors seeking episodic care in the ED that are at increased risk of not receiving recommended post cancer treatment surveillance.