Database of Health Workforce Innovations
581
Redeployment of oncologists to other duties during COVID-19 pandemic in Italy
Healthcare Workers were not allowed to take leave and were asked to suspend non-urgent activites, including elective surgeries. Hospitals were ordered to create new intensive care treatment spaces.
The pandemic also presented significant risk for cancer patients who have increased susceptibility to infection. Oncological treatments often cannot be reasonably delayed. Physicians were encouraged to postpone followup visits and to prepare for providing continued care to active patients.
The pandemic also presented significant risk for cancer patients who have increased susceptibility to infection. Oncological treatments often cannot be reasonably delayed. Physicians were encouraged to postpone followup visits and to prepare for providing continued care to active patients.
Almost a third of oncology wards had their oncologists redeployed to other wards including internal medicine, emergency, and even COVID units. In the Northern Italy red zone, 51% of oncologists were deployed to IM/ED, and 38% were called to COVID-ward duties.
Oncologists began using tele-consultation services when feasible. Family doctors were delegated the task of providing results and follow-up information to oncology patients.
Oncologists began using tele-consultation services when feasible. Family doctors were delegated the task of providing results and follow-up information to oncology patients.
- Cross-sector staff deployments
- Alternative deployments for health workers whose normal duties are temporarily suspended
- Cross-sector deployment
- Expanded roles
- Physicians - Primary/Family
- Physicians - Specialists
In February 2020, Italy, and in particular a three-region "Red Zone" (Lombardia, Emilia Romagna, and Veneto) were hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. A series of government decrees resulted in a national shutdown of social gatherings and non-essential travel.
- Hospitals
Formal Strategy
Indini, A., Aschele, C., Bruno, D., Cavanna, L., Clerico, M., Fiorentini, G., ... & Pinotti, G. (2020). Reorganization of medical oncology departments during COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide Italian survey. European Journal of Cancer. 132, 17-23.
Alice Indini
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Medical Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
Europe (non-UK)