ABSTRACT
To address the discrepancy in the quality of care and outcomes between cystic fibrosis centers (CFCs) in high-income countries and limited resources countries (LRCs), a collaboration between our team at the University of Michigan CFC (UMCFC) and a CF center in Turkey (Marmara University CFC [MUCFC], Istanbul) was established. The collaboration included evaluation of all aspects of care and initiation of quality improvement (QI) measures. Teaching and implementing QI tools has led to start of improvement in MUCFC care. Close monitoring and sharing resources like UMCFC algorithms, protocols, and QI processes were done.
Subject(s)
COVID-19 , Cystic Fibrosis , COVID-19/epidemiology , Cystic Fibrosis/epidemiology , Cystic Fibrosis/therapy , Humans , Michigan/epidemiology , Pandemics , Quality Improvement , Turkey/epidemiology , United States/epidemiologyABSTRACT
Introduction: Oncologists have an arduous task of weighing the urgency of treating cancer patients against risk for COVID-19 exposure, especially in low resource countries, where there is shortage of radiation equipment, personnel as well as resources to deal with the crisis. Strategic planning to control the spread of infection is critical in this susceptible patient population as well as healthcare workers involved in radiation delivery.Areas covered: We reviewed all the available literature and present feasible strategies for sustainable and continued care of cancer patients amidst this pandemic.Expert opinion: Further research is warranted to maintain and improve survival outcomes for cancer patients in spite of necessary restrictions.