The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on a Single Institution's Head and Neck Radiation Therapy Population in New York City

Consistent with a decrease in presentation of many non-COVID related illnesses, there was a parallel decrease in treatment of H&N cancer patients within our radiation oncology practice, one of the largest H&N centers located in the initial national epicenter of the pandemic. An increase in relative definitive RT regimens demonstrates the increased utilization of radiotherapy once surgical procedures were postponed. Our data highlights that despite significant uncertainties and limitations during this period, successful efforts were made to provide high-quality cancer care without delays in treatment. Future efforts should focus on preparing medical centers to ensure the delivery of essential cancer treatments such as radiotherapy and minimize non-traditional treatment strategies, particularly in the setting of curative treatments for H&N cancers.