gms | German Medical Science

Background/research question: The increasing prevalence of breast cancer in Austria is straining its hospital-centred healthcare system. This study examined breast cancer care models across six European countries to identify alternative approaches for improving resource efficiency and care delivery in Austria.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach combined a scoping review with expert consultations (n=17) across Austria, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The analysis mapped breast cancer patient journeys and compared health care infrastructures, service provision, and professional roles across different care settings. Data on cancer epidemiology and healthcare expenditures were collected from national and international sources.

Results: Three care models were identified: (1) Centralised Specialist Model with accredited centres and strict volume requirements (Austria, Denmark, Belgium); (2) Decentralised Model utilising certified hospitals with national quality standards (Germany); and (3) Network-based Model combining specialist centres with regional facilities (Netherlands, Sweden). While all models maintained quality through regulation and accreditation, they differed significantly in their approach to accessibility and resource allocation.

Conclusion: Findings indicate opportunities for Austria to optimise cancer care through strategic integration of centralised and network-based elements. Success factors include addressing workforce shortages, enhancing data integration, and strengthening cross-sectoral coordination. Implementing hybrid care models that combine centralised expertise with distributed service delivery could significantly improve both the efficiency and accessibility of breast cancer care in Austria's healthcare system.

Competing interests: none