Project Details

About one quarter of newly occurring cancer cases are classified as rare cancers. In comparison to common tumor diseases, rare tumor diseases often affect younger individuals and the chances of surviving the disease are significantly lower. The care for this patient group is intended to be improved through the new care model TARGET in the model region of Southern Bavaria. TARGET aims to intensify the networking of resident oncologists and the Cancer Center Munich (CCC Munich LMU) to provide these patient groups with easier access to personalized therapeutic concepts. Patients should have early access to innovative diagnostics and therapy, be accompanied by an interdisciplinary treatment team throughout the course of their disease and be actively involved in shaping their treatment. Key components of the concept include innovative IT structures and the establishment of "onco-guides" who support patients during the course of their disease. The use of a patient app, training for medical personnel and the application of innovative diagnostics are intended to ensure optimal resource utilization and improve the situation of those affected.

Through the study using qualitative and quantitative methods, researchers compare a group of patients in participating practices before the introduction of the new care model with patients from the same practices treated under the new concept. In addition, the costs of the new care model are also analysed.

The University of Bremen, as a consortium partner in the project, is significantly involved in the development of instruments to support patients decision-making regarding their treatments (Decision Support Tools). Furthermore, training for medical personnel in informed shared decision-making and decision coaching is being developed, piloted and conducted in preparation for the new care model with the involved stakeholders.

The project is funded by The Federal Joint Committee as part of the Innovation Fund from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2025.