Mapping Patient Pathway Maturity in Comprehensive Cancer Care Networks: Insights from EUnetCCC

Background: Comprehensive Cancer Care Networks (CCCNs) link cancer care service providers across the full patient journey to deliver coordinated, multidisciplinary care for all people living within a defined region, with the dual aims of equity and improved outcomes and quality of care.

 

The European Joint Action EUnetCCC, embedded in Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, contributes to the EU-level goal that 90% of eligible patients will have access to high-quality-cancer care by 2030. Within EUnetCCC, a central component is the structured development and implementation of patient pathways as the backbone of coordinated, patient-centred service delivery in CCCNs.

 

Approach: To support this transformation, the Patient Pathway Maturity Model (PPMM), originally developed under the EU project CCI4EU, was adapted for the CCCN setting. The PPMM specifies core dimensions and progression levels for pathway-based coordination, governance, and implementation. It was applied across 14 EUnetCCC pilot sites via a dedicated PPMM web tool, targeted workshops, and one-to-one consultations, generating the first comparative overview of patient pathway maturity in European CCCNs. Using the results of this baseline assessment, each pilot will define and pursue tailored pathway implementation objectives.

 

Results: The assessments revealed considerable heterogeneity in pathway implementation. Most CCCNs are initiating coordination structures and inter-institutional workflows, while few demonstrate advanced governance, quality monitoring, and systematic patient involvement. The maturity assessment revealed major shortcomings in the execution and operationalisation of patient pathways, underscoring the need for clearer standards, evaluation mechanisms, and stronger inter-organisational integration. The tool proved effective in facilitating shared learning and guiding local capacity development.

 

Implications: The PPMM provides a scalable framework for CCCNs to structure their development towards integrated, patient-centred cancer care. Embedding pathway maturity assessment into CCCN development promotes benchmarking, collective learning, and alignment across European oncology systems - strengthening the foundation for equitable, patient-centred, and high-quality cancer care.