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October 2012

Best Tests

A new model for cancer care in New Zealand

An ageing population, earlier diagnosis and advances in oncology treatment are contributing to a rising number of cancer survivors in New Zealand. This is placing an unsustainable pressure on oncology services, which has led to the announcement of a new national framework for managing people with cancer. The new model of care focuses on a wider level of involvement in cancer care, for a more diverse range of clinicians, using a tiered approach to treatment, based on patient needs. It is likely that primary care clinicians will play a role in this new framework, which is to be implemented within the next three to five years. View Article

Following up prostate cancer in primary care

Cancer services in New Zealand are undergoing major changes over the next few years. Primary care clinicians are likely to have a much greater involvement in providing management for their patients with cancer, especially in regards to follow-up after cancer treatment has been completed. Many General Practitioners already manage patients after prostate cancer. This article gives guidance on interpreting PSA levels for surveillance, and other associated follow-up tests View Article

Sick and tired of being tired and sick: laboratory investigation of glandular fever

Glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) is a common, potentially debilitating illness that is most frequently seen in adolescents and young adults. A diagnosis of glandular fever can usually be made clinically, but laboratory testing is indicated if the clinical picture is unclear or where the risks of morbidity are high. The most appropriate testing regimen is dependent on age, history and symptoms. View Article