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Thoracic Cancer
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Lung cancer diagnostic assessment program

Our Lung Cancer Diagnostic Assessment Program (L-DAP) offers patients easy and timely access to quality care by pairing patients with a Patient Navigator who is entirely dedicated to supporting the individual from suspicion of cancer through to diagnosis and referral to necessary specialists.

This centralized program creates a streamlined process and personalized care to support patients and their families as they begin the cancer journey.

Who do we serve?

  • Patients with a suspicious finding on chest x-ray and/or CT scan of primary lung cancer
  • Patients with a diagnosis of lung cancer to facilitate access to surgeons, respirologists and oncologists
  • Patients with a clinical suspicion of lung cancer

How we support you

Our dedicated Patient Navigator will:

  • Provide timely access to diagnostic tests and staging diagnostic imaging
  • coordinate care
  • prepare patients for surgical consults
  • provide patients with referrals as necessary
  • provide reliable education material and support
  • improve the cancer journey for patient

How to make a referral

Download a print referral form and fax to 416-480-7884

Referring physicians please note:

  1. Abnormal chest x-ray suspicious of lung cancer or an abnormal CT scan of the chest suspicious of lung cancer is required prior to referral
  2. If an organized lung cancer screening program is in place, an abnormal low-dose CT scan of the chest suspicious of lung cancer is sufficient imaging prior to referral to L-DAP
  3. Please refer to the chart on the referral form to determine if the patient needs to see a respirologist or a thoracic surgeon. If unsure, please check either, and the navigator will ensure an appointment is made with the most appropriate discipline
  4. A patient history (including co-morbidities, medications and allergies) must be included in the referral
  5. Neither pulmonary function test nor blood work is required for referral to a L-DAP
  6. The patient navigator will be available to patients after the referral is received, and will offer patients support and navigation.
  7. Primary care providers have direct access to the patient navigator.
  8. The patient navigator will notify the patient of their appointment with the surgeon or respirologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Diagnostic Assessment Programs?

Diagnostic Assessment Programs (DAP) are evidence-based programs to:
  • improve the coordination of care
  • reduce wait times and help minimize disease progression
  • improve the patient experience.

DAP standards and practices are set by Cancer Care Ontario and are based on the many improvement strategies provided by primary care providers.

What is the role of Diagnostic Assessment Programs?

From referral to first treatment, DAPs ensure:
  • patient-centered care
  • a coordinated, streamlined, referral and follow-up system
  • setting and monitoring of quality indicators for continuous improvement.

What do Diagnostic Assessment Programs offer?

DAPs provide:
  • a central access system
  • access to care coordination and patient navigation
  • access to multidisciplinary expertise
  • comprehensive, coordinated diagnostic services with capacity for timely diagnosis