Presentation

The employee contacted PHM after concerning findings related to a newly diagnosed cancer.  

The patient initially presented with a cough and fever, leading to a pneumonia diagnosis. However, imaging revealed a mass suggestive of primary lung cancer.  

Initial pathology results raised suspicion for small cell lung cancer, which is atypical for the patient’s age.  

The employee and their family were understandably anxious, seeking to expedite evaluation, confirm diagnosis, and begin treatment promptly. 

PHM Actions

A multidisciplinary team (including clinical, logistical, and research members) was swiftly assembled to address the client’s needs.  

Within one business day of outreach, the client and family met with the PHM Care team to establish priorities of engagement, receiving immediate reassurance and emotional support.  

Recognizing the urgency, we expedited the patient’s originally scheduled staging studies from three weeks out to within one week of our engagement.  

During our second call, we quickly adapted to a major change in suspected diagnosis, providing real-time education on treatment algorithms and improved prognosis before the patient’s meeting with their medical oncologist, offering palpable relief to the patient and family.  

We enhanced important visits with the treating team by providing directed question lists to optimize care.  

PHM successfully advocated for the incorporation of ctDNA monitoring to assess treatment response and monitor for disease recurrence.  

We detected and managed lab abnormalities that were not being addressed by the patient’s treating team, preventing complications from treatment by advocating for a needed medication.