More Patients Learning of Cancer Diagnoses Through Online Portals

An increasing number of patients are first learning about a cancer diagnosis via immediate online portal access to radiology and pathology reports, a shift raising concerns about patient support and emotional distress.

• The rise tracks with the 21st Century Cures Act mandate requiring immediate electronic release of test results and clinical notes.
• While viewed as patient-empowering, immediate release without clinical context may heighten patient anxiety.

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