Mapping the Regional Distribution of Molecular Tumor Board Patients and Identifying White Spots in our Catchment Area – a Joint Approach of the CCC WERA Alliance

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundMolecular Tumor Boards (MTBs) are crucial instruments for discussing and allocating targeted therapies to suitable cancer patients based on genetic findings. Currently, limited evidence is available regarding the regional impact and the outreach component of MTBs.MethodsWe analyzed MTB patient data from four neighboring Bavarian tertiary care oncology centers in Würzburg, Erlangen, Regensburg, and Augsburg, together constituting the WERA Alliance. Absolute patient numbers and regional distribution across the WERA-wide catchment area were weighted with local population densities.ResultsHighest MTB patient numbers were found close to the four cancer centers. However, peaks in absolute patient numbers were also detected in more distant and rural areas. Moreover, weighting absolute numbers with local population density allowed us to identify regions within our catchment area relatively underrepresented in WERA MTBs.ConclusionInvestigating patient data from four neighboring cancer centers, we comprehensively assessed the regional impact of our MTBs. The results confirmed the success of existing collaborative structures with our regional partners. Additionally, our results help identifying potential white spots in precision oncology and establishing a joint WERA-wide outreach strategy.