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Early access to cancer diagnosis and treatment is a cornerstone of high-quality cancer care. In Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone, this focus is inspiring innovation and results. The Oncology Diagnostic Assessment Clinic (ODAC) at the Cape Breton Cancer Centre is transforming how patients move through the diagnostic process, supporting faster, more co-ordinated, patient-centred care.
“The clinic was developed with the goal of streamlining the diagnostic journey for patients with suspected cancers,” said Dr. Graydon Lucas, medical oncologist and medical director of the Cancer Care Program for Eastern and Northern zones, and medical lead for the clinic’s development.
“The clinic brings together diagnostic testing, patient navigation, and multidisciplinary assessment into a single, co-ordinated process,” Lucas explained. “Clinic operations are led by a general practice oncologist (GPO) and a patient nurse navigator, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive support from suspicion of a cancer through to diagnosis.”
Valerie Nugent is director of the Cancer Care Program for Eastern and Northern zones. She points to how the streamlined approach benefits patients. “This model aims to reduce the time between initial suspicion of cancer and the start of treatment, which is a critical factor in improving outcomes and reducing anxiety for patients and families. And that is exactly what is happening.”
Since launching in January 2025, 156 patients have been referred from a range of primary care sources, including the emergency department, family physicians, and urgent care. Of these, 56 per cent were assessed by the clinic team and sent for further testing and investigation. The remaining patients were directed to the most appropriate diagnostic or treatment pathway after initial workup.
About 78 per cent of patients assessed through ODAC have been diagnosed with cancer, with 80 per cent receiving a confirmed diagnosis within 28 days. Following diagnosis, patients are typically seen by an oncologist within two weeks.
In addition to reducing time from initial symptoms to diagnosis, the ODAC team has improved co-ordination among referring providers, diagnostic imaging, and oncology teams, enhancing system efficiency, reducing redundant testing and accelerating the communication of results.
“The ODAC model is about putting patients first, removing barriers, reducing delays, and ensuring that every person suspected of having cancer gets timely, co-ordinated care,” Lucas said. “Early diagnosis changes outcomes, and this clinic demonstrates what is possible when we innovate and collaborate across the system.”
Photo of (1) (L-R) ODAC team photo (front row) Kayla Robertson, Tannaz Safaralizadeh, Alisha Malcolm, Rhonda McNeil, Cam Zheng and Dawn Cholock (back row) Dr. Enam Alsrayheen, Dr. Warren Wilkes, Thomas Ashford and Dr. Graydon Lucas. (2) Inverness Oncology Team (L-R) Dr. Annalee Coakley, Meghan Rankin, Kathy Hannigan, Melissa Beaton, Kelly Glabais-Cummings, Laura MacArthur and Dr. Mark Bennett.