According to The Star Ledger, 76 oncologists across the state of New Jersey have consolidated their own practices into a new oncology network, Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA). The new network of healthcare providers is expected to lower costs and provide a greater resource pool for over one-third of the state’s cancer patients.
For doctors, this network would allow for more effective bargaining with insurance companies and drug manufacturers. For patients, the new network provides access to a wider range of doctors under the same large medical group. It also provides greater access to participate in clinical trials.
Each doctor’s office will retain the authority to make specific medical decisions, but the RCCA will standardize care through policymaking by a board of trustees; including criteria for the number of diagnostic tests that can be ordered and monitoring the effectiveness of certain chemotherapies. Cost control is the main objective of the RCCA.
It is the hope that standardizing care will ensure that more cancer patients receive an appropriate level of care, however, this does not guarantee that every doctor will always correctly diagnose and/or treat his or her patients. Misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, and prescribing ineffective treatments are medical negligence issues which can cause permanent severe injuries and adversely affect a patient’s prognosis.
If you or a loved one has suffered as the result of a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosed cancer, you may be entitled to financial compensation. The knowledgeable cancer misdiagnosis attorneys in New Jersey at Blume Forte have experience in handling meritorious claims for our clients, and can help you determine the potential merit of your claim. Contact us for a no-cost consultation at 973-845-4421.