Surveillance After Initial Treatment for Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Study of Variation In and Outcomes of Care
Abstract
We have utilized SEER and Medicare data bases to study patterns of care related to the treatment of local/regional breast cancer. In analyzing the generalizability of the population covered by SEER, we have determined that the SEER population is more affluent, has lower unemployment, and is substantially more urban than the rest of the United States. There factors must be considered in generalizing to the rest of the U.S. Our initial studies of a cohort of 4341 patients aged 65 and older who received surgical treatment for early breast cancer, and had coverage with parts A and B of Medicare have revealed the following. Most patients (74%) received masectomy treatment, and the remainder (26%) received breast-conserving treatment. Only 44% of the patients received mammography in both of the first two years of surveillance after initial treatment. About 30% did not have a mammography claim in either surveillance year. Mammograms were less likely to be received by African-American women, by women undergoing masectomy treatment, and by women with regional stage disease. The median number of office visits for cohort patients was 6 per year. On average, patients saw 2.5 different types of providers annually.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADB225277
Entities
People
- Ann B. Nattinger
Organizations
- Medical College of Wisconsin