One-stop-shop treatment for basal cell carcinoma, part of a new disease management strategy

Background The number of skin cancer patients, especially patients with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), is rapidly increasing. Resources available at dermato-oncology units have not increased proportionally, which affects the throughput time of patients. Objective To assess the feasibility and safety of implementation of the one-stop-shop concept for the treatment of patients with BCC at a dermato-oncology unit. Methods A pilot study on a one-stop-shop concept for BCC was performed to investigate procedure safety and patient satisfaction. Fresh frozen sections were used to diagnose the tumours, and subsequently treatment with photodynamic therapy or excision was performed on the same day. Time spent in the hospital was measured and questionnaires were used to evaluate patient satisfaction. Results Sixteen patients, who together had 19 tumours, were included. Diagnoses were made within a mean time of 100 min (range 27–160 min). The mean throughput time was 4 hours and 7 min (range 60–420 min). No complications were observed, and patient satisfaction was high. Conclusion The one-stop-shop concept for the treatment of skin cancer patients is feasible and efficient for both patients and dermato-oncology units. Further research is necessary to investigate cost-effectiveness when larger patient groups are involved.