ABSTRACT
This chapter talks about a specific regulatory initiative streamlining the care pathway for cancer patients in order to reduce delay and ensure a uniformly high quality of care across the Denmark. Across the developed world, the incidence and prevalence of cancer will increase over the coming years, mainly due to increased longevity. Denmark aims to provide world-class healthcare, so it was an issue of concern 15 years ago, when it became clear that Danish outcomes in cancer care did not compare favorably internationally. The first set of cancer-specific patient pathways (CPPs) were published in 2008. The number of negative patient stories about obstacles in the diagnostic and treatment pathways has declined. CPPs were the response to a clear and well-documented problem. The feasibility of the recommended technical solution was demonstrated by the success of a specific hospital program. Integrated pathways are now used in the treatment of acute cardiac disease and mental disorders throughout Denmark.
