Overview
Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly those with specific genetic markers like EGFR or ALK, often require long-term oral therapies that need consistent monitoring. While traditional clinical trials have suggested that web-based services can improve patient survival, there has been limited real-world evidence regarding how telemedicine specifically impacts the health outcomes of these patients in routine clinical practice.
Researchers conducted a study using the Flatiron Health Research Database to analyze records from over 5,800 patients with advanced NSCLC treated between 2011 and 2023. The team evaluated the relationship between telemedicine visits and the risk of the cancer worsening or death. The study found that patients who used telemedicine had a 13% lower risk of disease progression or death compared with those who did not, a trend that remained consistent across different types of treatment, including targeted therapies and chemotherapy.
Why this matters
These findings highlight the significant potential of telemedicine as a valuable addition to standard cancer care. By providing more accessible ways for patients to connect with their care teams, telemedicine may enable earlier detection of complications and better management of long-term treatments. This research supports the continued integration of virtual care into oncology practice to help patients live longer.