Effectively managing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) involves collaborating with various specialists and patients. This multidisciplinary team approach ensures you get comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Here’s what you need to know about the healthcare professionals who may be involved in your treatment and how they work together to provide the best care.
Prompt and appropriate referrals are crucial for rare or high-risk cSCC cases. Networks that facilitate these referrals can significantly improve patient outcomes. Experts from the Association of Community Cancer Centers’ program, Advanced Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers: Effective Practices in Multidisciplinary Care, have outlined strategies for effectively managing non-melanoma skin cancer, emphasizing cross-specialty collaboration.2
Identify specialists in your area who can help.
Ensure all team members stay in touch and share information.
Develop a clear process for referring you to the right specialists.
Identify and tackle any barriers to getting the care you need.
Keep your primary care doctor updated about your condition and the specialist care you need.
By working together, your healthcare team ensures you receive timely, comprehensive care. This collaborative approach tailors the treatment plan to your unique situation, from diagnosis to follow-up care, improving your overall outcomes and quality of life.3 Remember, ongoing communication with your primary care team and specialists is key to managing your health effectively.
Feel free to ask your care team members about their roles, their training, and the specific parts of your treatment they’ll be handling. Understanding how your team works and communicates with each other will help you and your loved ones know who to turn to for various concerns that may arise.4
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