Improving access to cancer care among rural populations in India: Development of a validated tool for health system capacity assessment.

BACKGROUND: Cancer burden in India is rapidly growing, with oral, breast, and uterine cervix being the three most commonly affected sites. It has a catastrophic epidemiological and financial impact on rural communities, the vast majority of whom are socio-economically disadvantaged. Strengthening the health system is necessary to address challenges in the access and provision of cancer services, thus improving outcomes among vulnerable populations. OBJECTIVE: To develop, test, and validate a health system capacity assessment (HSCA) tool that evaluates the capacity and readiness for cancer services provision in rural India. METHODS: A multi-method process was pursued to develop a cancer-specific HSCA tool. Firstly, item generation entailed both a nominal group technique (to identify the health system dimensions to capture) and a rapid review of published and gray literature (to generate items within each of the selected dimensions). Secondly, tool development included the pre-testing of questionnaires through healthcare facility visits, and item reduction through a series of in-depth interviews (IDIs) with key local stakeholders. Thirdly, tool validation was performed through expert consensus. RESULTS: A three-step HSCA multi-method tool was developed comprising: (a) desk review template, investigating policies and protocols at the state level, (b) facility assessment protocol and checklist, catering to the Indian public healthcare system, and (c) IDI topic guide, targeting policymakers, healthcare workforce, and other relevant stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS: The resulting HSCA tool assesses health system capacity, thus contributing to the planning and implementation of context-appropriate, sustainable, equity-focused, and integrated early detection interventions for cancer control, especially toward vulnerable populations in rural India and other low-resource settings.

Anaemia in Hospitalized Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Study of Two Cohorts before and after the Guideline Update.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of anaemia and its consequences are often underestimated during cancer management. We propose to evaluate the situation before and after the recommendations were updated in order to assess their impact on the day-to-day practice. METHODS: In this single-centre retrospective study, eligible patients were treated for cancer and warranted overnight hospitalization over two periods (n = 206 in 2011, n = 143 in 2018). The diagnosis of anaemia was defined by a haemoglobin level below 12 and 13 g/dL for women and men, respectively. RESULTS: The prevalence of anaemia was 26% in 2011 and 16% in 2018 (p < 0.001). Biological assessment had changed between the two periods, with more tests of iron metabolism and measurements of inflammatory parameters. Patients hospitalized in 2018 had more advanced cancer and more severe anaemia (8.2 g/dL [±1.07] in 2011 vs. 7.9 g/dL [±1.18] in 2018). Rate of transfusion therapy did not change, but patients with mild and moderate anaemia were transfused less in 2018 (57% in 2011 vs. 44% in 2018). Intravenous iron and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent were used more frequently in 2018 (1 and 5 and 13 and 23% in 2011 and 2018, respectively), mainly for mild anaemia and life-threatening anaemia, respectively. Overall survival was poor in both cohorts at 24 months (15.4% in 2011 and 6.5% in 2018, p = 0.048). CONCLUSION: Practices have changed in the diagnosis of anaemia and prescriptions for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and intravenous iron have increased. Efforts must continue to explore the causes of anaemia, optimize patients' quality of life, and reduce transfusions.

Multidisciplinary team meeting Chairs' attitudes and perceived facilitators, barriers and ideal improvements to meeting functionality: A qualitative study.

AIM: Oncology care provision by multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) is widely acknowledged as best practice. Formal team meetings, led by chairpersons, coordinate decisions on diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and review. This study addresses a gap in meeting Chairs' perspectives on factors affecting functionality across the meeting cycle, from pre-meeting patient list triage to post-meeting dissemination of recommendations. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in person with Chairs within two urban geographical regions in New South Wales, Australia as part of a larger project. Though the population of oncology MDT Chairs in Australia is small, the richness and depth of data from nine Chairs were considered to be valuable knowledge in support of extant literature on meeting functionality. An integrated deductive-inductive approach was applied to data analysis. RESULTS: Perceived facilitators, barriers, and ideals relating to pre-meeting, in-meeting, and post-meeting functionality were identified across five pre-determined analytic categories: the team; meeting infrastructure; meeting organization and logistics; patient-centered clinical decision-making, and; team governance. Key barriers included inadequate information technology, limited support staff, and lack of dedicated time for Chair duties. Corresponding facilitators included robust Information Technology infrastructure and support, provision of clinically knowledgeable MDT meeting coordinators, and formal employment recognition of Chairs' responsibilities and skill sets. CONCLUSION: Chairs across various tumor streams develop workarounds to overcome barriers and ensure quality meeting outcomes. With more robust support they could enhance value by sharing evidence, conducting audits, and engaging in research. The findings highlight the need for healthcare systems to support tumor stream clinical networks by allocating greater resources to prioritize multidisciplinary meetings and cancer care decision-making.

Models of Care in Providing Comprehensive Healthcare on Cancer Survivors: A Scoping Review with a TIDieR Checklist Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The study's aim is to identify the models of care used to provide survivorship care plans (SCPs) to cancer survivors in healthcare services, describing what kind of professionals are involved, in which settings and timings, and their feasibility. METHODS: The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews is followed. Studies that considered the SCPs applying different models of care, in any healthcare setting on any adult cancer survivors who completed oncological treatments, have been included. Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Cinahal were searched from 2013 to 2023 with these keywords: "Survivorship Care Plan", "Oncology", and "Program". The study selection process was reported with the PRISMA-ScR. A total of 325 records were identified, 42 were screened, and, ultimately, 23 articles were included. RESULTS: The models of care include: SCP standardization in hospitals; self-support oriented; consultation-based; primary or specialist direct referral; shared care; a multimodal approach. Multidisciplinary teams were involved in the SCP models of care. The settings were private clinics or cancer centers. One-hour SCP interventions were most frequently delivered through in-person visits, by telephone, or online. CONCLUSIONS: Implementing SCPs is feasible in healthcare contexts, but with challenges, like time and resource management. Patient-centered programs promoting coordinated care are promising models of care.

Factors related to Nursing workload in the Oncology assistance provided to hospitalized women / Factores relacionados con la carga de trabajo de enfermería en la atención oncológica de mujeres hospitalizadas / Fatores relacionados à carga de trabalho da enfermagem na assistência oncológica de mulheres hospitalizadas

Objective: to evaluate the Nursing workload and its related factors in the assistance provided to hospitalized women with gynecological and breast cancers, according to the Nursing Activities Scores adapted for cancer patients. Method: a cross-sectional and epidemiological study. The participants were women with gynecological and/or breast cancer, over 18 years of age, and hospitalized for a minimum period of 24 hours. The following was collected from the medical records: sociodemographic and clinical data, Karnofsky Performance Status and workload, according to the adapted Nursing Activities Score. The factors related to workload were analyzed by means of multiple linear regression. Results: the mean Nursing Activities Scores was 29.3%, denoting seven hours of daily care per patient. The factors related to workload differed according to the breast or gynecological cancer diagnosis (β=-0.01; p<0.001), clinical or surgical treatment (β=-0.03; p<0.001) and functional capacity at admission (β=0.07; p<0.001), as per the Karnofsky Performance Status. Conclusion: there was greater workload for the care of women with gynecological cancer undergoing clinical treatment and with lower functional capacity at admission. The findings reveal directions for optimization of resources and improvements in work processes and flows, in order to promote a favorable work environment and good quality assistance.

Objetivo: evaluar la carga de trabajo de enfermería y los factores relacionados con la atención de mujeres hospitalizadas con cáncer ginecológico y de mama, según el Nursing Activities Scores adaptado para pacientes oncológicos. Método: estudio epidemiológico y transversal. Participaron mujeres con cáncer ginecológico y/o de mama, mayores de 18 años, hospitalizadas por un período mínimo de 24 horas. De las historias clínicas se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos y clínicos, Karnofsky Performance Status y carga de trabajo, según el Nursing Activity Score adaptado. Los factores relacionados con la carga de trabajo se analizaron mediante regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: el puntaje promedio del Nursing Activity Scores fue del 29,3%, lo que indica que se brindan siete horas diarias de atención por paciente. Los factores relacionados con la carga de trabajo difirieron según diagnóstico de cáncer de mama o ginecológico (β=-0,01; p<0,001), tratamiento clínico o quirúrgico (β=-0,03; p<0,001) y capacidad funcional al momento del ingreso (β=0,07; p< 0,001), conforme a la escala Karnofsky Performance Status . Conclusión: hubo una mayor carga de trabajo en la atención a mujeres con cáncer ginecológico en tratamiento clínico y con menor capacidad funcional al momento del ingreso. Los hallazgos revelan información útil para optimizar recursos, mejorar procesos y flujos de trabajo, con el fin de promover un ambiente de trabajo favorable y una atención de calidad.

Objetivo: avaliar a carga de trabalho da enfermagem e seus fatores relacionados na assistência às mulheres hospitalizadas com cânceres ginecológicos e mamários, segundo o Nursing Activities Scores , adaptado a pacientes oncológicos. Método: estudo epidemiológico de corte transversal. Participaram mulheres com câncer ginecológico e/ou mamário, maiores de 18 anos, hospitalizadas por período mínimo de 24 horas. Coletados, do prontuário, dados sociodemográficos, clínicos, Karnofsky Performance Status e carga de trabalho, segundo Nursing Activities Score adaptado. Os fatores relacionados à carga de trabalho foram analisados por regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: pontuação média do Nursing Activities Scores foi 29,3%, denotando sete horas de assistência diária por paciente. Os fatores relacionados à carga de trabalho diferiram conforme diagnóstico de câncer de mama ou ginecológico (β= - 0,01; p<0,001), tratamento clínico ou cirúrgico (β= - 0,03; p<0,001) e capacidade funcional na admissão (β= 0,07; p<0,001), pelo Karnofsky Performance Status . Conclusão: evidenciou-se maior carga de trabalho para atendimento de mulheres com câncer ginecológico sob tratamento clínico e com menor capacidade funcional na admissão. Os achados revelam direcionamentos para otimização de recursos, melhorias em processos e fluxos de trabalho, a fim de promover ambiente laboral favorável e assistência de qualidade.

Photobiomodulation for Oral Mucositis - A Microcosting and Budget Impact Analysis from a Brazilian Perspective

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure the costs of preventive and therapeutic protocols of Photobiomodulation (PBM) for oral mucositis (OM) and their budgetary impact on Brazil's Ministry of Health (BMH). Material and Methods: A partial economic analysis was performed to estimate the costs using a bottom-up approach from a social perspective. Monetary values were assigned in Brazilian reais (BRL). The costs of the preventive protocol were calculated for five, 30, and 33 consecutive PBM sessions, depending on the antineoplastic treatment instituted. The costs of the therapeutic protocol were calculated for 5 or 10 sessions. The annual financial and budgetary impact was calculated considering the groups of oncologic patients with a higher risk of development of OM, such as those with head and neck and hematological cancer and pediatric patients. Results: The cost of a PBM session was estimated at BRL 23.75. The financial impact of providing one preventive protocol per year for all oncologic patients would be BRL 14,282,680.00, 0.030% of the estimated budget for hospital and outpatient care of the BMH in 2022. The financial and budgetary impacts of providing one treatment for OM for all patients in one year would be BRL 2,225,630.31 (0.005%, most optimistic scenario) and BRL 4,451,355.63 (0.009%, most pessimistic scenario). Conclusion: The budgetary impact of implementing PBM protocols in the Brazilian Healthcare System is small, even in a pessimistic scenario.

Multidisciplinary Team Meeting in the Core of Nasopharyngeal Cancer Management Improved Quality of Care and Survival of Patients.

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) cases are often diagnosed in advanced stages. The complexity of clinical management for advanced-stage NPC requires thorough communication and shared decisions between medical professionals and allied teams. Incorporating a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDTM) for newly diagnosed NPC patients was chosen to facilitate collaboration and communication between physicians. This retrospective study aimed to compare the quality of care, clinical responses and survival between NPC patients treated with and without MDTM. Data on clinical responses, assessment visits, date of progression and death with progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and hazard ratio (HR) were collected and analyzed with 95% confidence interval (CI) and significance set as P < .05. There were 87 of 178 NPC patients treated with MDTM. Revisions of diagnosis and stage occurred in 5.7% and 52.9% of cases during the MDTM. More clinical responses were achieved by patients treated with MDTM (69.0%vs 32.0%, P < .00). NPC patients who received MDTM treatment recommendation had a lower risk for progression (median PFS 59.89 months vs 12.68 months; HR 0.267, 95% CI: 0.17-0.40, P < .00) and mortality (median OS was not reached vs 13.44 months; HR 0.134, 95% CI: 0.08-0.24, P < .00) compared to patients without MDTM. Incorporating the MDTM approach into NPC management improves patients' clinical responses and survival.

A multimodal strategy to improve health care for pediatric patients with cancer and fever in Peru.

Objective: The DoTT (Decreasing Time to Therapy) project aimed to minimize the interval between fever onset and medical interventions for children with febrile neutropenia. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of implementing the DoTT project on the hospital time to antibiotic (TTA) and patient time to arrival (PTA) at the hospital in children with febrile neutropenia admitted to the emergency department. Methods: The DoTT project was implemented at a Peruvian hospital and followed the World Health Organization (WHO) multimodal improvement strategy model. Components included creating a healthcare delivery bundle and antibiotic selection pathways, training users of the bundle and pathways, monitoring patient outcomes and obtaining user feedback, encouraging use of the new system, and promoting the integration of DoTT into the institutional culture. Emergency room providers were trained in the care delivery for children with cancer and fever and taught to use the bundle and pathways. DoTT was promoted via pamphlets and posters, with a view to institutionalizing the concept and disseminating it to other hospital services. Results: Admission data for 129 eligible patients in our registry were analyzed. The TTA and PTA were compared before and after the DoTT intervention. The median TTA was 146 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] 97-265 minutes) before the intervention in 99 patients, and 69 minutes (IQR 50-120 minutes) afterwards in 30 patients (p < 0.01). The median PTA was reduced from 1 483 minutes at baseline to 660 minutes after the intervention (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Applying the WHO multimodal improvement strategy model to the care of children with febrile neutropenia arriving at the hospital had a positive impact on the PTA and TTA, thus potentially increasing the survival of these patients.

Routine, molecular point-of-care testing for SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses within an acute oncology service improves patient care.

OBJECTIVES: COVID-19 has caused significant challenges for infection prevention measures and patient flow in hospital admission pathways. We aimed to assess the impact of replacing laboratory PCR with molecular point-of-care testing (mPOCT) for respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2, within an Acute Oncology Service (AOS). METHODS: This pre- and post-implementation study took place in the AOS of a large teaching hospital, in Southampton, UK. We collected data from two periods: November 25th, 2019 to November 24th, 2020, when respiratory virus testing utilised laboratory PCR, and December 1st, 2020 to May 31st, 2021 following the introduction of mPOCT. The primary outcome was the time to results. RESULTS: 2189 patients were tested in the pre-implementation period and 1540 in the post implementation period. Median (IQR) time to results was 5.8 h (4.2-10.6) pre-implementation and 1.9 h (1.5-3.0) post-implementation (difference -3.6 h [95%CI to -3.8 to -3.5]; p < 0.0001). Median time spent in assessment areas was 6.0 h (4.1-7.9) pre-implementation and 5.5 h (3.8-7.4) post-implementation (p < 0.0001). 20 (0.9%) patients admitted via AOS assessment unit developed hospital-acquired respiratory virus infection pre-implementation versus 0 (0%) post-implementation (p = 0.031). CONCLUSIONS: Routine mPOCT for respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, was associated with a reduced time to results, reduced time in assessment areas, and a reduction in the rates of hospital-acquired respiratory virus infection in an acute oncology assessment unit.

Patient-doctor interactions around alternative and complementary medicine in the context of oncology care in a Latin American country.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize doctor-patient communication patterns around the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) in the context of oncology care in Colombia. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted using snowball sampling until data saturation was reached. We included oncology specialists and cancer patients who were in active treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following a guide designed for each group of participants. An analysis based on open coding was performed to identify thematic areas. The coherence of emerging categories was verified by contrasting the data set within the content of the participants' reports and existing literature. RESULTS: In total, 10 oncologists and 16 cancer patients were included, representing diverse professional fields and cancer diagnoses, respectively. Communication patterns comprise themes regarding the beginning of the interaction (i.e., patient's anticipations), the patient-doctor relationship (i.e., confidence), the characteristics of the message (i.e., synthetic vs explanatory), the communication styles (i.e., confrontational vs conciliatory), and the closing of the interaction (i.e., continuity vs. end of communication). In addition, extrinsic factors influencing communication were found to be related to participants (i.e., knowledge, cultural background) and context (i.e., institutional procedures). CONCLUSIONS: The low frequency of communication contrasts to the increasing use of CAM. Divergent perspectives between doctors and patients could limit shared decision-making on the use of CAM. Enhanced knowledge and education on CAM for both actors is fundamental to improve their interaction and to move away from paternalistic and confrontational communication, particularly in a world region with cultural backgrounds that influence the use of CAM.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oncological care in Germany: rapid review.

OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic affected medical care for chronic diseases. This study aimed to systematically assess the pandemic impact on oncological care in Germany using a rapid review. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, study and preprint registries and study bibliographies were searched for studies published between 2020 and 2 November 2022. Inclusion was based on the PCC framework: population (cancer), concept (oncological care) and context (COVID-19 pandemic in Germany). Studies were selected after title/abstract and full-text screening by two authors. Extracted data were synthesized using descriptive statistics or narratively. Risk of bias was assessed and summarized using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Overall, 77 records (59 peer-reviewed studies and 18 reports) with administrative, cancer registry and survey data were included. Disruptions in oncological care were reported and varied according to pandemic-related factors (e.g., pandemic stage) and other (non-pandemic) factors (e.g., care details). During higher restriction periods fewer consultations and non-urgent surgeries, and delayed diagnosis and screening were consistently reported. Heterogeneous results were reported for treatment types other than surgery (e.g., psychosocial care) and aftercare, while ongoing care remained mostly unchanged. The risk of bias was on average moderate. CONCLUSIONS: Disruptions in oncological care were reported during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Such disruptions probably depended on factors that were insufficiently controlled for in statistical analyses and evidence quality was on average only moderate. Research focus on patient outcomes (e.g., longer term consequences of disruptions) and pandemic management by healthcare systems is potentially relevant for future pandemics or health emergencies.

A mainstreaming oncogenomics model: improving the identification of Lynch syndrome.

Introduction: "Mainstreaming" is a proposed strategy to integrate genomic testing into oncology. The aim of this paper is to develop a mainstreaming oncogenomics model by identifying health system interventions and implementation strategies for mainstreaming Lynch syndrome genomic testing. Methods: A rigorous theoretical approach inclusive of conducting a systematic review and qualitative and quantitative studies was undertaken using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Theory-informed implementation data were mapped to the Genomic Medicine Integrative Research framework to generate potential strategies. Results: The systematic review identified a lack of theory-guided health system interventions and evaluation for Lynch syndrome and other mainstreaming programs. The qualitative study phase included 22 participants from 12 health organizations. The quantitative Lynch syndrome survey included 198 responses: 26% and 66% from genetic and oncology health professionals, respectively. Studies identified the relative advantage and clinical utility of mainstreaming to improve genetic test access and to streamline care, and adaptation of current processes was recognized for results delivery and follow-up. Barriers identified included funding, infrastructure and resources, and the need for process and role delineation. The interventions to overcome barriers were as follows: embedded mainstream genetic counselors, electronic medical record genetic test ordering, results tracking, and mainstreaming education resources. Implementation evidence was connected through the Genomic Medicine Integrative Research framework resulting in a mainstreaming oncogenomics model. Discussion: The proposed mainstreaming oncogenomics model acts as a complex intervention. It features an adaptable suite of implementation strategies to inform Lynch syndrome and other hereditary cancer service delivery. Implementation and evaluation of the model are required in future research.

Central nervous system tumors in patients coming from areas of conflict in the Middle East/North Africa region: an experience from King Hussein Cancer Center.

Introduction: The global cancer burden has been disproportionately shifting towards low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Limited availability and accessibility to screening, treatment and surveillance, increase in the prevalence and lack of control of risk factors, and underdeveloped healthcare infrastructures have greatly contributed to the disparity in the global cancer burden. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted that included adult and pediatric patients with an established diagnosis of Central Nervous System (CNS) tumors including brain or spinal tumors of which different demographic, clinical characteristics, and financial burden were presented. Results: 749 patients were included stemming from various countries in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region including Libya (34.2%), Palestine (19.8%), Iraq (15.4%), Syria (14.6%) Yemen (14.5%), and Sudan (1.5%). Most patients were adults (66%) with a median age of 34-year-old. 104 patients had died (13.9%), 80 patients were still alive (10.7%) and most of the patients (n= 565, 75.5%) were lost to follow-up. The added cost of managing these patients is 10,172,935 Jordanian Dinars (JOD), with King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) covering around 34.3% of the total cost. Conclusion: Our study aimed at taking a closer look at patients coming from areas of conflict in the MENA region diagnosed and treated for CNS tumors at King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC) over a 12-year period. It was found that even with the contributions of the Jordanian sources almost half of the patients were faced with the entire financial burden of treatment alone.

[Burnout syndrome due to workload in the care for cancer patients]. / Síndrome de quemarse por el trabajo en atención de pacientes oncológicos.

Background: The burnout syndrome (BS) is defined as a response to chronic work stress. It appears as a subjective phenomenon and its main symptoms are the loss of enthusiasm towards work, a feeling of professional failure, feelings of guilt, emotional exhaustion and indifference to patients' problems. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of BS in health personnel who care for cancer patients in a tertiary hospital. Material and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 41 health professionals dedicated to providing direct care to cancer patients, which were selected through an intentional non-probabilistic sampling. The Questionnaire for the Evaluation of the Burnout Syndrome was applied. Results: In the sample studied, BS presented a prevalence of 51.21% at the medium level, 9.75% at the high level and 2.43% at the critical level. Significant differences were found between groups by service and work seniority. Conclusions: A high prevalence of symptoms of BS was found in the study participants, derived mainly from the excessive workload, the type of care provided, as well as experiences related to contact with people living with cancer, the hospital environment, and the type of interpersonal relationships that emerge there. The personnel most affected was that one belonging to Medical Oncology, Psychology, and Social Work.

Introducción: el síndrome de quemarse por el trabajo (SQT) se define como una respuesta al estrés laboral crónico. Aparece como un fenómeno subjetivo y sus principales síntomas son la pérdida de ilusión hacia el trabajo, la sensación de fracaso profesional, sentimientos de culpa, agotamiento emocional e indiferencia hacia los problemas de los pacientes. Objetivo: evaluar la prevalencia del SQT en personal sanitario que atiende pacientes oncológicos en un hospital de tercer nivel. Material y métodos: estudio transversal de tipo descriptivo. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 41 profesionales de la salud que brindan atención directa a pacientes oncológicos y que fueron seleccionados por un muestreo intencional no probabilístico. Se aplicó el Cuestionario para la Evaluación del Síndrome de Quemarse por el Trabajo. Resultados: en la muestra estudiada el SQT presentó una prevalencia del 51.21% en nivel medio, 9.75% en nivel alto y 2.43% en nivel crítico. Hubo diferencias significativas entre grupos por servicio y antigüedad laboral. Conclusiones: se encontró una alta prevalencia de síntomas de SQT en los participantes del estudio, que puede atribuirse a la carga excesiva de trabajo, el tipo de atención brindada, las experiencias relacionadas con el contacto con las personas que viven con cáncer, al ambiente hospitalario, y al tipo de relaciones interpersonales que ahí emergen. Asimismo, el personal más afectado fue el de Oncología Médica, Psicología y Trabajo Social.

Experiences of oncology healthcare personnel in international medical service quality: a phenomenological study.

BACKGROUND: With the globalization of medical services on the rise, Asia has ascended to a destination of choice for its high-quality medical services at very reasonable rates. Monitoring the quality of the international medical industry is vital to maintain service demand. The experiences of healthcare personnel (HCP) involved in international medical services (IMS) regarding the provision of services to international cancer patients have not yet been discussed. This study aimed to explore oncology HCP experiences of IMS quality in caring for international cancer patients in Taiwan. METHODS: Descriptive phenomenological method and were analyzed through Colaizzi's seven-step approach. In this study, 19 respondents were collected data by using in-depth semi-structured interviews. An average interview lasted approximately 45 min. RESULTS: Four major themes were identified from the interviews: patient selection, psycho-oncology care, predicaments, and promoting suggestions. Additionally, thirteen subthemes emerged, including necessary selection of patients, reasons for unwillingness to enroll international patients, helpless patients, emotional distress, care with warmth, insufficient manpower, an unfair reward mechanism, poor hardware equipment, the predicaments of oncology care, various publicity strategies, one-on-one service model, design of a designated area, and reasonable benefit distribution. CONCLUSIONS: This study explored oncology HCP experiences of IMS quality in caring for international cancer patients, with implications for hospitals in developing high-quality IMS. Due to the fact that IMS is a global trend, HCPs, administrators, and policy-makers are advised to improve the quality of IMS in the oncology department, which has been the least studied field in IMS quality.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on outpatient visit volume in cancer patients: Results of COMETA multicenter retrospective observational study.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on first and follow-up visits for cancer outpatients. Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective observational study involving three Comprehensive Cancer Care Centers (CCCCs): IFO, including IRE and ISG in Rome, AUSL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, and IRCCS Giovanni Paolo II in Bari) and one oncology department in a Community Hospital (Saint'Andrea Hospital, Rome). From 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2021, we evaluated the volume of outpatient consultations (first visits and follow-up), comparing them with the pre-pandemic year (2019). Results were analyzed by quarter according to the Rt (real-time indicator used to assess the evolution of the pandemic). IFO and IRCCS Giovanni Paolo II were "COVID-free" while AUSL-IRCCS RE was a "COVID-mixed" Institute. Depending on the Rt, Sain't Andrea Hospital experienced a "swinging" organizational pathway (COVID-free/ COVID-mixed). Results: Regarding the "first appointments", in 2020 the healthcare facilities operating in the North and Center of Italy showed a downward trend. In 2021, only AUSL-IRCCS RE showed an upward trend. Regarding the "follow-up", only AUSL IRCCS RE showed a slight up-trend in 2020. In 2021, IFO showed an increasing trend, while S. Andrea Hospital showed a negative plateau. Surprisingly, IRCCS Giovanni Paolo II in Bari showed an uptrend for both first appointment and follow-ups during pandemic and late pandemic except for the fourth quarter of 2021. Conclusions: During the first pandemic wave, no significant difference was observed amongst COVID-free and COVID-mixed Institutes and between CCCCs and a Community Hospital. In 2021 ("late pandemic year"), it has been more convenient to organize COVID-mixed pathway in the CCCCs rather than to keep the Institutions COVID-free. A swinging modality in the Community Hospital did not offer positive results in term of visit volumes. Our study about the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on visit volume in cancer outpatients may help health systems to optimize the post-pandemic use of resources and improve healthcare policies.

Real time patient-reported outcome measures in patients with cancer: Early experience within an integrated health system.

BACKGROUND: While patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have benefit in cancer clinical trials, real-world applications are lacking. This study describes the method of implementation of a cancer enterprise-wide PROMs platform. METHODS: After establishing a multispecialty stakeholder group within a large integrated health system, domain-specific instruments were selected from the National Institutes of Health's Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) instruments (pain interference, fatigue, physical function, and depression) and were administered at varying frequencies throughout each patient's cancer journey. All cancer patients with an oncologic visit were eligible to complete the PROMs prior to the visit using a patient portal, or at the time of the visit using a tablet. PROMs were integrated into clinical workflow. Clinical partnerships were essential for successful implementation. Descriptive preliminary data were compared using multivariable logistic regression to determine the factors associated with method of PROMs completion. RESULTS: From September 16, 2020 to July 23, 2021, 23 of 38 clinical units (60.5%) implemented PROMs over 2392 encounters and 1666 patients. Approximately one third of patients (n = 629, 37.8%) used the patient portal. Black patients (aOR 0.70; 95% CI: 0.51-0.97) and patients residing in zip codes with higher percentage of unemployment (aOR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01-0.41) were among the least likely to complete PROMs using the patient portal. CONCLUSIONS: Successful system-wide implementation of PROMs among cancer patients requires engagement from multispecialty stakeholders and investment from clinical partners. Attention to the method of PROMs collection is required in order to reduce the potential for disparities, such as Black populations and those residing in areas with high levels of unemployment.

Comprehensive geriatric assessment: Valuation and patient preferences in older Japanese adults with cancer.

BACKGROUND: Current guidelines recommend a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) for the management of older adults with cancer. We evaluated the effect of CGA conducted by a geriatric oncology service (GOS) on the management of older adults with cancer. We also queried patients about their perceptions of the value of this process. METHODS: This was a prospective quality assessment study of 498 consecutive older adults with cancer who were referred to the GOS from May 2020 through December 2021. Treating physicians requested a consultation and the GOS conducted a CGA and assessed patient preferences. The GOS provided recommendations on cancer treatment and geriatric interventions. Patient perspectives on the consultation were evaluated using collaboRATE and modified Patient Assessment of Care for Chronic Conditions (PACIC) subscales. RESULTS: A 10-item frailty index based on a CGA (FI-CGA-10) [Oncologist, 26, e1751 (2021)] in the 498 patients showed that 19% of patients were fit, 40% pre-frail, and 41% frail. Prior to CGA the intent of the proposed cancer treatment was curative in 56% (n = 280), life-extending in 40% (n = 201), and palliative in 3.4% (n = 17). After a CGA consultation, a cancer treatment decision was changed in 45% of patients. The intent of treatment after the CGA consultation was curative in 45%, life-extending in 34%, and palliative in 21%. At least one referral to relevant disciplines was recommended for 88% of patients and was implemented in 43%. As part of the GOS consultation educational support was provided to 97% of patients. Based on the collaboRATE and PACIC tools, patients perceived the GOS consultation positively and helpful for facilitating shared decision-making and patient-centered care. CONCLUSION: Our institutional experience demonstrated the valuable effect of the CGA consultation on oncologic decision-making and geriatric interventions in a patient-centered manner.

"Cambia la vida de un día para otro": Experiencias de madres y padres al cuidado personal de un hijo/a hospitalizado por cáncer

Objetivo: Comprender el significado que atribuyen los padres y madres a la experiencia de estar junto a su hijo hospitalizado en una unidad de oncología de un hospital público de Chile. Metodología: Paradigma de investigación interpretativo, enfoque fenomenológico hermenéutico de Van Manen. Se realizó una entrevista en profundidad a 10 participantes y las narrativas se analizaron mediante un análisis temático con enfoque selectivo de lectura. El artículo fue aprobado por el comité de ética de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Resultados: La experiencia de hospitalización significó "cambiar la vida de un día para otro"; este resultado se conformó por dos estructuras: 1) "Cuando te dan el diagnóstico se te derrumba el mundo", que contiene momentos difíciles como la hospitalización en que reciben el diagnóstico, los momentos en que el hijo/a sufre, las situaciones de riesgo vital, el cansancio de las madres y padres y los cambios que afectan a la familia, y 2) "Recibir una luz de ayuda durante la hospitalización", que describe la importancia de un espacio físico tranquilo, de un equipo de salud con un trato cariñoso y de compartir experiencias con otras madres y padres. Conclusiones: La hospitalización representa una transformación en el mundo vida de los padres y madres, es vital que el equipo de salud atienda las necesidades físicas y emocionales que derivan de este cambio en el espacio y relaciones que estos vivencian.

Objetivo: Entender o significado atribuído pelos pais à experiência de estar com seu filho hospitalizado em uma unidade oncológica de um hospital público no Chile. Metodologia: Paradigma de pesquisa interpretativa, abordagem fenomenológica hermenêutica de Van Manen. Foi realizada uma entrevista aprofundada com 10 participantes e as narrativas foram analisadas utilizando uma análise temática com uma abordagem de leitura seletiva. O artigo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética da Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Resultados: A experiência da hospitalização significou "Muda a vida de um dia para o outro"; este resultado foi moldado por duas estruturas: 1) "Quando você recebe o diagnóstico, seu mundo desmorona", que contém momentos difíceis como a hospitalização quando recebem o diagnóstico, momentos em que a criança sofre, situações de risco de vida, cansaço das mães e dos pais e mudanças que afetam a família, e 2) "Receber uma luz de ajuda durante a hospitalização", que descreve a importância de um espaço físico tranquilo, uma equipe de saúde com um tratamento cuidadoso e compartilhando experiências com outras mães e pais. Conclusões: A hospitalização representa uma transformação no mundo da vida dos pais, é vital que a equipe de saúde atenda às necessidades físicas e emocionais que surgem desta mudança no espaço e nos relacionamentos que eles experimentam.

Objective: To understand the meaning attributed by parents to the experience of being with their hospitalized child in an oncology unit of a public hospital in Chile. . Methodology: Interpretative research paradigm, Van Manen's hermeneutic phenomenological approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants and the narratives were analyzed by means of a thematic analysis with selective reading approach. The article was approved by the ethics committee of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Results: The experience of hospitalization meant "It turns life upside down"; this outcome was shaped by two structures: 1) "When they give you the diagnosis your world falls apart", which contains difficult moments such as the hospitalization when they receive the diagnosis, the moments when the child suffers, life-threatening situations, the tiredness of mothers and fathers and the changes that affect the family, and 2) "Receiving a helping light during hospitalization", which describes the importance of a quiet physical space, a health team with a caring treatment and sharing experiences with other parents. Conclusions: Hospitalization represents a transformation in the life world of parents, it is vital that the health team attends to the physical and emotional needs that derive from this change in the space and relationships they experience.

Breast cancer and covid-19: reduction in diagnosis and treatment in a Hospital Unit in Pernambuco / Câncer de mama e covid-19: redução no diagnóstico e tratamento em uma Unidade Hospitalar de Pernambuco

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on screening, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. Method: cross-sectional study, based on secondary data from consultations with a mastologist, ultrasound, mammogram, biopsies, new cases, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, carried out in women for the screening, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, from January to December of the years 2019 to 2021. Results: the covid-19 pandemic reduced consultations with mastology (46.3%), ultrasounds (34.8%), mammogram (41.5%), biopsy (49.6%), new cases 45.7 % and surgery 34.6% in 2020 compared to 2019. On the other hand, with the exception of consultations with a mastologist and surgeries, all services where a significant reduction was observed in 2020, increased significantly in 2021 and returned to the same level of production in the pre-pandemic period. The pandemic did not negatively affect the supply of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Conclusions: the findings of this study indicate negative impacts on breast cancer care, due to covid-19, during the first year of the pandemic, especially in consultations with a mastologist and surgery, which continued with low production in 2021. It is reasonable to assume that the reduction observed in procedures may reflect an increase in late diagnoses and a higher mortality rate in the coming years

Resumo Objetivos: analisar o impacto da pandemia da covid-19 nos atendimentos para rastreamento, diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama em Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal, com base em dados secundários de consultas com mastologista, ultrassonografia, mamografia, biópsias, casos novos, quimioterapia, radioterapia e cirurgia, realizadas em mulheres para o rastreamento, diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama, de janeiro a dezembro dos anos 2019 a 2021. Resultados: a pandemia da covid-19 reduziu as consultas com a mastologia (46,3%), ultrassonografias (34,8%), mamografia (41,5%), biópsia (49,6%), casos novos 45,7% e cirurgia 34,6% no ano de 2020 em relação ao ano de 2019. Por outro lado, com exceção das consultas com mastologista e cirurgias, todos os serviços onde se observou redução significativa em 2020, aumentaram significativamente em 2021 e voltaram ao patamar de produção do período pré-pandemia. A pandemia não afetou negativamente a oferta de quimioterapia e radioterapia. Conclusões: os achados deste estudo apontam impactos negativos na atenção ao câncer de mama, em decorrência da covid-19, durante o primeiro ano da pandemia, sobretudo nas consultas com mastologista e cirurgia, que continuaram com baixa produção em 2021. É razoável supor que a redução constatada nos procedimentos poderá refletir em um aumento de diagnósticos tardios e maior taxa de mortalidades nos próximos anos.