Kapazität der onkologischen Versorgung in deutschen onkologischen Spitzenzentren während der ersten 2 Jahre der COVID-19-Pandemie

BACKGROUND: An increasing number of international studies demonstrate serious negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the timely diagnosis of cancer and on cancer treatment. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate the capacities of German Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) in different areas of the complex oncological care structure from March 2020 to June 2022. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, regular panel survey were conducted among 18 CCCs in Germany between March 2020 and June 2022. RESULTS: The COVID-19 pandemic substantially affected the oncologic care system in Germany during the first 2 years. Persistent limitations of care in CCCs primarily affected follow-up (−21%) and psychooncologic care (−12%), but also tumor surgery (−9%). Substantial limitations were also reported for all other areas of the multidisciplinary oncological care. CONCLUSIONS: This study documents the limited oncological care available during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its impact on patients’ outcomes cannot be fully revealed as yet. Nevertheless, strategies to avoid similar limitations in the future need to be developed (now).