The
Colorectal Cancer Pathway Map is an evidence-based high level overview of the care colorectal cancer patients should receive in Ontario.
Diagnosis
Many patients, both with and without colorectal cancer, will present with signs or symptoms that may raise the suspicion of cancer (for example an abnormal FIT). The following guideline may help you determine when to refer a patient for further investigation.
Diagnostic Assessment Programs (DAPs)
Diagnostic Assessment Programs (DAPs), also known as Diagnostic Assessment Units (DAUs) and Rapid Diagnostic Units (RDUs), focus on providing a rapid assessment and diagnosis for patients with suspicious symptoms or abnormalities. Patients receive a comprehensive assessment, examination and care plan. Please refer to the following document for recommended entry and transfer of care criteria for Colorectal Diagnostic Assessment Programs (DAPs) in Ontario.
Patients who have an abnormal FIT result should be referred to a facility that has the expertise and resources to perform colonoscopies in people with an abnormal FIT result. In the Toronto Central region, these facilities include:
- Michael Garron Hospital (Toronto East Health Network)
- Mount Sinai Hospital (Sinai Health System)
- Odette Cancer Centre (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre)
- St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Unity Health)
- St. Michael’s Hospital (Unity Health)
- University Health Network (Toronto Western Hospital and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre)
Treatment
- Michael Garron Hospital (Toronto East Health Network)
- Odette Cancer Centre (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre)
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (University Health Network)
- St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Unity Health)
- St. Michael’s Hospital (Unity Health)
Follow-Up
