PHIL (Prostate Cancer)
Background

Phil, 57 years old, was diagnosed with early prostate cancer and his doctor said he had two options: surgery (“radical prostatectomy”) or radiation therapy.  He was concerned about the risks of surgery, namely impotence and incontinence, and called CMR for more information.
How CMR Helped

CMR provided a comprehensive, objective, up to date report on all treatment options for early prostate cancer, including surgery and radiation.  The information also included a newer surgical approach (“nerve sparing prostatectomy”) that he was unaware of but was equally effective and had fewer complications than radical prostatectomy.  After reading this report, Phil found a doctor in his area that specialized in this newer form of surgery.
Outcome
Phil chose the “nerve sparing” surgery and had a successful procedure without complications.

Informed Patient? Higher Satisfaction?

YES

YES
Improved Quality? Lower Costs?

YES

YES

Phil’s Feedback:

“The information CMR provided me helped me make a decision in a matter of days versus weeks or months.  I doubt very much I would have ever been able to get all of this information on my own.  By helping me make my decision more quickly, I was able to get back to work and be more productive, as well.  In addition, I was more comfortable with my treatment decision.”