Transitional care services and chronicity: oncology as a case in point.
Fragmentation in care is of primary concern to nurses and other individuals involved in the provision of health services. Currently, fragmentation is related to the changes that have occurred in health delivery systems, increased emphasis on cost containment, the appropriate and effective delivery of nursing care, and the increasing prevalence of chronicity in populations requiring health services. This paper examines the fragmentation of care that results under current health care delivery structures for individuals with the diagnosis of cancer and their families. Transitional care, which the clinical nurse specialist is prepared uniquely to implement, is discussed for its potential to impact positively the elements of care rendered to individuals and families living with the realities of cancer.
Ritz
L J
LJ
Walker
M K
MK
D003142:Communication; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing*; D009720:Nurse Clinicians; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D011320:Primary Health Care