Cancer centres

A clinical examination, suspect image or abnormal biological result may require a patient to consult a specialist who, if necessary, will perform additional examinations to either reject or confirm a cancer diagnosis.

A multidisciplinary conference (Tumour Board), brings together all the specialists involved in the oncology treatment pathway, these are radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiotherapy, plastic and reconstructive surgery, etc., each specific case is examined in detail and the best possible treatment strategy is discussed and established.

The proposed treatment (oncological surgery, systemic therapy, radiotherapy) will be based on the latest national and international clinical practice recommendations, developed by specialists in the field and taking account of each patient’s individual condition, physical and mental resources, environment, needs and wishes.

This treatment plan will be explained and discussed with the patient so that they can understand it, check it and agree to it, thus playing an active role in their own care journey («patient partner»).

In order to better manage the impact of the disease or the adverse effects of treatments, patients may be offered supportive care or – in a more structured form – outpatient cancer rehabilitation programmes.

At the end of treatment, a monitoring period also known as «remission» begins, which includes regular consultations with a specialist doctor. For the first five years, consultations tend to be every three to six months, and this is followed by one consultation per year thereafter. These follow-up consultations may include clinical examinations, imaging and laboratory tests, depending on the location and type of cancer. They will also allow patients to talk to their doctor about possible symptoms and how they are adjusting to their new daily routine.

As soon as the diagnosis is given, the medical and paramedical team is on hand to answer any questions or concerns that the patient or their loved ones may have. This support covers physical, psychological, social, family and professional areas, among others, ensuring patients are as well-equipped as possible when planning their treatment pathway.