Co-Management, Community Partnerships & Longitudinal Care

This segment focuses on the practical realities of co-managing patients with CLL between academic centers and community oncology practices. The discussion emphasizes communication, expectations-setting, and optimizing continuity of care, especially for patients on active treatment or approaching major decision points such as therapy initiation or relapse.

Panelists recommend establishing early direct communication between academic and community clinicians to align on roles and follow-up schedules. They also note the importance of involving patients in these conversations: some prefer annual academic follow-ups, whereas others want input at every treatment juncture. Tailoring follow-up cadence to patient comfort, clinical needs, and logistical realities creates more stable and trusting long-term care relationships.

The panel highlights evidence showing that patients who are regularly monitored, rather than lost to follow-up, experience fewer emergencies and better outcomes. This may relate to earlier detection of infections, secondary malignancies, or symptomatic relapses. Because patients with CLL are particularly susceptible to immune-related complications, ongoing supportive care remains a crucial component of long-term management.

The segment also reflects on the emotional dimensions of CLL. Many patients experience anxiety during watch-and-wait periods or when changing therapies. Strong, longitudinal provider relationships help mitigate this burden.

The faculty underscores that successful co-management is built on collaboration, clarity, and shared decision-making to ensure high-quality, consistent care regardless of treatment setting.