The Ligurian Experience in the Management of Lung Cancer: Organizational Models and New Perspectives

Background: Lung cancer is an oncological threat worldwide, including in Italy. New organizational approaches based on a network of cancer centers and multidisciplinary and technological innovation are required. The experience in the Liguria region, in northwestern Italy, in the management of lung cancer is presented with a focus on the organizational model. Methods: A retrospective observational analysis was conducted for the period from January 2019 to December 2023 using administrative regional data. Results: Of the total surgery treatments in Liguria, most were carried out at the IRCCS San Martino (about 47%), which is the hub’s center. Most cases involved males aged ≥65 years (p < 0.001). Passive mobility showed a decrease in recent years. Considering the type of access to clinical structures, almost all that were finalized to receive chemotherapy were from the day hospital regimen (99%). Conclusion: A comprehensive approach must be carried out for cancer patients to maintain high levels of care quality. In this challenging context, the Liguria region has implemented new organizational approaches based on the networking of cancer centers and multidisciplinary and technological innovation.