GPs ‘more cost effective’ for prostate cancer aftercare

The healthcare system could save more than €760k over the next 10 years if survivors of prostate cancer were offered follow-up care with their GPs instead of hospital-based clinicians, according to research.

The study, by researchers at the National Cancer Registry Ireland (NCRI), said this model would be more cost effective and would not result in any adverse changes in aftercare.

After being treated for prostate cancer, sufferers have ongoing checks with a medical professional to see if the disease is returning and to monitor and manage any potential side-effects of the cancer treatment.