Changing healthcare practice for older adults with late-stage non-small cell lung cancer: practical considerations of targeted therapy in primary care and oncology.

Healthcare practice for cancer care is rapidly evolving because of advances in technology, scientific discovery, drug development, and aging demographics in America. Among the substantive changes in science and drug development is targeted therapy. Targeted agents are changing the scope of practice in treating lung cancer-the leading cause of cancer death in older adults. Given the growing use of these agents in cancer management, shared awareness of practical management considerations between specialists and primary care providers is important. This article reviews targeted therapy in late-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and shared care concerns in continuity of care of older Americans with this disease. Important practice points for providers caring for older patients with late-stage lung cancer treated with targeted therapy are presented through an educational guide addressing potential management concerns.