Patient Journey for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Optimal Care Pathways vs. Reality of Care in Italian Breast Units

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents approximately 15% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Its heterogeneity and absence of targetable receptors make treatment particularly challenging, and it is burdened by a worse prognosis than other breast cancer subtypes. The absence of standardized care pathways may impede the accessibility of information for patients and caregivers. The present survey was conducted as part of a co-participatory process aimed at informing the development of a patient journey for TNBC. A group of statements was developed based on relevant literature, current guidelines, and good practice points (GPPs) for effective TNBC care and subsequently evaluated by a multi-stakeholder panel. Key steps in the care journey were then selected for the survey, and Coordinators of Italian BUs (65.4%) indicated the level of perceived importance and reported implementation of each item. Descriptive statistical analyses were employed. Despite some gaps concerning issues such as the involvement of general practitioners (GPs), data show agreement on perceived importance and generally adequate levels of reported implementation of core aspects of TNBC care, providing support for the development of an optimal care journey for triple-negative breast cancer patients grounded in real-world practice, which may help generate useful guidance where clear pathways are still lacking.