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Wieringa TH, León-García M, Espinoza Suárez NR, Hernández-Leal MJ, Jacome CS, Zisman-Ilani Y, Otten RHJ, Montori VM, Pieterse AH. The role of time in involving patients with cancer in treatment decision making: A scoping review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2024; 125:108285. [PMID: 38701622 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2024.108285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Time is often perceived as a barrier to shared decision making in cancer care. It remains unclear how time functions as a barrier and how it could be most effectively utilized. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aimed to describe the role of time in patient involvement, and identify strategies to overcome time-related barriers. METHODS Seven databases were searched for any publications on patient involvement in cancer treatment decisions, focusing on how time is used to involve patients, the association between time and patient involvement, and/or strategies to overcome time-related barriers. Reviewers worked independently and in duplicate to select publications and extract data. One coder thematically analyzed data, a second coder checked these analyses. RESULTS The analysis of 26 eligible publications revealed four themes. Time was a resource 1) to process the diagnosis, 2) to obtain/process/consider information, 3) for patients and clinicians to spend together, and 4) for patient involvement in making decisions. DISCUSSION Time is a resource throughout the treatment decision-making process, and generic strategies have been proposed to overcome time constraints. PRACTICE VALUE Clinicians could co-create decision-making timelines with patients, spread decisions across several consultations, share written information with patients, and support healthcare redesigns that allocate the necessary time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Wieringa
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands; Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Montserrat León-García
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain; Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nataly R Espinoza Suárez
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; VITAM - Center for Sustainable Health Research, Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, QC, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - María José Hernández-Leal
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Economics, Rovira i Virgili University, Tarragona, Spain; University of Navarra, School of Nursing, Department of Community, Maternity and Pediatric Nursing, Campus Universitario, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Millennium Nucleus on Sociomedicine, 750908 Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Soto Jacome
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Norwalk Hospital, Norwalk, CT, USA
| | - Yaara Zisman-Ilani
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - René H J Otten
- Walaeus Library, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Victor M Montori
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research (KER) Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Arwen H Pieterse
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, the Netherlands.
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Seecof OM, Jang C, Abdul Hay M. Impact of Palliative Care Referral on End-of-Life Outcomes for Patients With Hematologic Malignancy. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241266991. [PMID: 39041816 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241266991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Compared to patients with solid malignancies, less is known about the role of palliative care in patients with hematologic malignancies, leading to underutilization of palliative care. OBJECTIVES Evaluate the timing and impact of palliative care referrals on end-of-life outcomes over a 5-year period with intent to improve the utilization of palliative care in patients with advanced hematologic malignancies. METHODS A retrospective cohort of patients from an urban, NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, aged 18 years and older with a diagnosis of an advanced hematologic malignancy were separated into groups of early, late, very late, or no specialty palliative care. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine variables associated with timing of palliative care referral. Groups were compared using the Kruskal Wallis test and Dunn's test with a Bonferroni correction method. RESULTS 222 patients with advanced hematologic malignancies who died between July 1, 20218 and June 30, 2023 were included. 50 (23%), 41 (18%), and 51 (23%) patients received an early, late, and very late palliative care referral, respectively and 80 (36%) patients did not receive a palliative care referral. There was a significantly high completion of ACP documentation among the palliative care cohorts. There was no significant difference among all cohorts in end-of-life outcomes in the last 14 or 30 days of life. CONCLUSION ACP documentation improved with palliative care, however, end-of-life outcomes did not. These results are likely due to the majority of late, inpatient palliative care referrals. Future studies with targeted interventions are needed to improve these outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia M Seecof
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charley Jang
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maher Abdul Hay
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
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Rodenbach RA, Thordardottir T, Brauer M, Hall AC, Ward E, Smith CB, Campbell TC. Balancing risks and rewards: How hematologists discuss uncertainty in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation outcomes. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2024; 123:108177. [PMID: 38341898 PMCID: PMC10997451 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2024.108177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT) offers many patients with blood cancers a chance of cure but carries risks. We characterized how hematologists discuss the high-risk, high-reward concept of alloHCT. METHODS Qualitative analysis of video-recorded virtual encounters of hematologists who routinely perform alloHCT with actors portraying an older man recently diagnosed with high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome. RESULTS Hematologists (n = 37) were a median age of 44 years, 65% male, and 68% white. They frequently used "teeter-totter" language that juxtaposed alloHCT's risks and rewards in a dynamic, quickly alternating fashion and communicated uncertainty in transplant outcomes. This dialogue oscillated between encouragement about alloHCT's potential for cure and caution about its risks and occurred within single speech turns and in exchanges between hematologist and patient. Fewer hematologists outlined their big-picture stance on transplant's risks and benefits early in the conversation. Meanwhile, hematologists varied in how they counseled patients to manage transplant-related uncertainty and consider treatment decision making. CONCLUSION Hematologists use "teeter-totter" language to express hope and concern, confidence and uncertainty, and encouragement and caution about the high-risk, high-reward nature of alloHCT. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Teeter-totter language may help frame big-picture content about alloHCT's risks and benefits that is essential for patient education and decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Markus Brauer
- University of Wisconsin Department of Psychology, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Aric C Hall
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Earlise Ward
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Toby C Campbell
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
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Jensen-Battaglia M, LoCastro M, Oh H, Sanapala C, Flannery M, Mendler JH, Liesveld J, Huselton E, Loh KP. Patient-oncologist discussion of treatment decisions: Exploring the role of a patient-centered communication tool for older adults with acute myeloid leukemia and their caregivers. J Geriatr Oncol 2024; 15:101716. [PMID: 38336521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2024.101716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Marielle Jensen-Battaglia
- James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute and Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Marissa LoCastro
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Haejung Oh
- The Catholic University of Korea, School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Marie Flannery
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Jason H Mendler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Jane Liesveld
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Eric Huselton
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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Rodenbach RA, Thordardottir T, Brauer M, Hall AC, Ward E, Smith CB, Campbell TC. Communication Strategies of Transplant Hematologists in High-Risk Decision-Making Conversations. JCO Oncol Pract 2024; 20:538-548. [PMID: 38241601 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Shared decision making (SDM) is essential to empower patients with blood cancers to make goal-concordant decisions about allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. This study characterizes communication strategies used by hematologists to discuss treatment options and facilitate SDM with patients in this high-risk, high-reward setting. METHODS AND MATERIALS We recruited US hematologists who routinely perform allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant through email. Participants conducted up to an hour-long video-recorded encounter with an actor portraying a 67-year-old man with recently diagnosed high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome. We transcribed and qualitatively analyzed video-recorded data. RESULTS The mean age of participants (N = 37) was 44 years, 65% male, and 68% White. Many hematologists included similar key points in this initial consultation, although varied in how much detail they provided. Their discussion of treatment options included transplant and chemotherapy and less commonly supportive care or clinical trials. They often emphasized transplant's potential for cure, discussed transplant chronologically from pretransplant considerations through the post-transplant course, and outlined risks, complications, and major outcomes. Hematologists referred to several elements that formed the basis of treatment decision making. The strength of their treatment recommendations ranged from strong recommendations for transplant or chemotherapy to deferrals pending more information. Hematologists also varied in the extent to which they indicated the decision was physician-driven, patient-led, or shared. CONCLUSION The transplant decision-making discussion is complex. Identification of similar content areas used by hematologists can be used as the basis for a communication tool to help hematologists discuss allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Rodenbach
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
- James P. Wilmot Cancer Center, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Markus Brauer
- University of Wisconsin Department of Psychology, Madison, WI
| | - Aric C Hall
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | - Earlise Ward
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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Di Lorenzo S, Mozzi L, Salmaso F, Silvagni C, Soffientini S, Valenti V, Zagonel V. A multicentre survey on the perception of palliative care among health professionals working in haematology. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:253. [PMID: 38536470 PMCID: PMC10973048 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08452-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with haematologic malignancies have less access to palliative care and are referred later than patients with solid tumours. We developed a survey to investigate this phenomenon, with the intention of analysing palliative care perceptions among health professionals who treat haematology patients and identifying barriers and facilitators to referrals to palliative care services. METHODS This was a multicentre exploratory descriptive web-based survey. A questionnaire was administered to 320 medical and nursing staff members from five Italian haematological units and San Marino's hospital to investigate their perception of palliative care. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed. RESULTS A total of 142/320 healthcare professionals completed the survey, achieving a 44% response rate. Most of the respondents supported the integration of haematology and palliative care and were aware of the role of palliative care. Despite this, only half had an in-hospital palliative care team, and only a few had previously attended a specific training course. The majority agreed with palliative care referral when the prognosis was less than 3 months or when the symptoms were incoercible and with blood transfusions even in the last stages of the disease. Many considered the presence of an in-hospital palliative care team or a case manager, as well as structured palliative care training, as fundamental facilitators of palliative care referrals. CONCLUSION These results showed that healthcare professionals in haematology generally hold a favourable attitude and a high interest in integrating palliative care into their patients' care. The low referral rate could depend on clinical, cultural, and organisational issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Lorenzo
- Clinical Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies Center, Carlo Melzi", Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Lisa Mozzi
- Clinical Hematology, Azienda Ospedaliera Ulss 8 Berica, "St. Bortolo" Hospital, Vicenza, Italy
| | - Flavia Salmaso
- Palliative Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV, Padua, Italy
| | - Claudia Silvagni
- Continuity of Care Center, Istituto Per La Sicurezza Sociale, Cailungo, Republic of San Marino
| | - Silvia Soffientini
- Integrated Home Care Unit, AULLS 6 Euganea - Terme Colli District, Padua, Italy
| | - Vanessa Valenti
- Palliative Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo Per Lo Studio Dei Tumori (IRST), "Dino Amadori", Via P. Maroncelli 40, Meldola, FC, 47014, Italy.
| | - Vittorina Zagonel
- Medical Oncology Unit 1, Department of Clinical and Experimental Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV, Padua, Italy
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Campbell K, Harris F, Stoddart K. The Hematology Cancer Patient Experience of "Facing Death" in the Last Year of Life: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study. Cancer Nurs 2024; 47:132-140. [PMID: 36480369 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For hematology cancer patients, the process of dying is described as "troublesome." Qualitative studies have focused on views of healthcare professionals and caregiver stakeholders. To date, there have been no studies from the patient's perspective on facing death while in the last year of life. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop an understanding of the hematology cancer patient's experience of the process of dying in the last year of life. METHODS The study method was constructivist grounded theory using semistructured interviews, a constant comparison technique, and memoing to collection and analysis of data. The 21 participants were attending a UK cancer center, a cancer unit, or a hospice. RESULTS This article describes 1 core category within the incurable hematology cancer illness trajectory through 4 subcategories: transitional phase, chronic phase, dying phase, and liminal phase. CONCLUSION This unique study illustrates that, although life can be prolonged, "facing death" still occurs upon hospitalization and relapse regularly over the illness trajectory. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE It is important that clinical practice acknowledges those participants in an incurable illness trajectory while living are focused on avoiding death rather than the ability to cure the disease. Services need to be responsive to the ambiguity of both living and dying by providing holistic management simultaneously, especially after critical episodes of care, to enhance the process of care in the last year of life, and assessment should incorporate the discussion of experiencing life-threatening events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Campbell
- Author Affiliations: Edinburgh Napier University (Dr Campbell); Professor, University of West of Scotland (Dr Harris); and University of Stirling (Dr Stoddart), Scotland
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Richardson DR, Mhina CJ, Teal R, Cole AC, Adapa K, Bryant AL, Crossnohere N, Wheeler SC, Bridges JFP, Wood WA. Experiences of treatment decision-making among older newly diagnosed adults with acute myeloid leukemia: a qualitative descriptive study. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:197. [PMID: 38416230 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08397-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Treatment decision-making for older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is complex and preference-sensitive. We sought to understand the patient experience of treatment decision-making to identify specific challenges in shared decision-making to improve clinical care and to inform the development of directed interventions. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with newly diagnosed older (≥ 60 years) adults with AML and their caregivers following a semi-structured interview guide at a public safety net academic hospital. Interviews were digitally recorded, and qualitative thematic analysis was employed to synthesize findings. RESULTS Eighteen in-depth interviews were conducted. Age ranged from 62 to 78 years. Patients received intermediate- (50%) or high-intensity (44%) chemotherapy or best supportive care only (6%). Six themes of patient experiences emerged from the analysis: patients (1) felt overwhelmed and in shock at diagnosis, (2) felt powerless to make decisions, (3) felt rushed and unprepared to make a treatment decision, (4) desired to follow oncologist recommendations for treatment, (5) balanced multiple competing factors during treatment decision-making, and (6) desired for ongoing engagement into their care planning. Patients reported many treatment outcomes that were important in treatment decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Older adults with newly diagnosed AML feel devastated and in shock at their diagnosis which appears to contribute to a feeling of being overwhelmed, unprepared, and rushed into treatment decisions. Because no one factor dominated treatment decision-making for all patients, the use of strategies to elicit individual patient preferences is critical to inform treatment decisions. Interventions are needed to reduce distress and increase a sense of participation in treatment decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Richardson
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Carl J Mhina
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Duke University Department of Population Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Randall Teal
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- The Connected Health Applications and Interventions (CHAI) Core, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Amy C Cole
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Karthik Adapa
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ashley L Bryant
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - William A Wood
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Alnaeem MM, Shehadeh A, Nashwan AJ. The experience of patients with hematological malignancy in their terminal stage: a phenomenological study from Jordan's perspective. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:36. [PMID: 38336650 PMCID: PMC10854087 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01373-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients diagnosed with hematological malignancies residing in low-middle-income countries undergo significant physical and psychological stressors. Despite this, only 16% of them receive proper care during the terminal stages. It is therefore crucial to gain insight into the unique experiences of this population. AIM To have a better understanding of the needs and experiences of adult patients with advanced hematological malignancy by exploring their perspectives. METHODS A qualitative interpretive design was employed to collect and analyze data using a phenomenological approach. The study involved in-depth interviews with ten participants aged between 49 and 65 years, utilizing a semi-structured approach. RESULTS Two primary themes emerged from the participants' experiences of reaching the terminal stage of illness: "Pain, Suffering, and Distress" and "Spiritual Coping." The first theme encompassed physical and emotional pain, suffering, and distress, while the second theme was centered on the participants' spiritual coping mechanisms. These coping mechanisms included seeking comfort in religious practices, relying on spiritual support from family and friends, and finding solace in their beliefs and faith. CONCLUSION Patients with hematological malignancies in the terminal stages of their disease experience severe pain, considerable physical and psychosocial suffering, and spiritual distress. While they require support to cope with their daily struggles, their experiences often go unnoticed, leading to disappointment and loss of dignity. Patients mainly rely on their spirituality to cope with their situations. Healthcare providers must acknowledge these patients' needs and provide more holistic and effective care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad M Alnaeem
- Palliative Care and Pain Management Program, School of Nursing, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Airport Street, 11733, Amman, Jordan
| | - Anas Shehadeh
- Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Airport Street, 11733, Amman, Jordan
| | - Abdulqadir J Nashwan
- Director of Nursing for Education and Practice Development, Nursing Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
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LoCastro M, Mortaz-Hedjri S, Wang Y, Mendler JH, Norton S, Bernacki R, Carroll T, Klepin H, Liesveld J, Huselton E, Kluger B, Loh KP. Telehealth serious illness care program for older adults with hematologic malignancies: a single-arm pilot study. Blood Adv 2023; 7:7597-7607. [PMID: 38088668 PMCID: PMC10733103 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023011046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) feel shocked and bewildered when diagnosed. Serious illness conversations (SICs) may increase disease understanding and preparations for the future. However, SICs often happen late, in part because of clinician-perceived patient discomfort. Telehealth may promote patient comfort by allowing SICs to take place at home. This study assesses the feasibility and usability of a telehealth-delivered Serious Illness Care Program (SICP) for older adults with AML and MDS. We conducted a single-arm pilot study including 20 older adults with AML and MDS. Feasibility was measured using retention rate, with >80% considered feasible. Usability was measured using telehealth usability questionnaire (TUQ; range, 1-7): >5 considered usable. We collected other outcomes including acceptability and disease understanding and conducted post-visit qualitative interviews to elicit feedback. Hypothesis testing was performed at α = 0.10 owing to the pilot nature and small sample size. Retention rate was 95% (19/20); mean TUQ scores were 5.9 (standard deviation [SD], 0.9) and 5.9 (SD, 1.1) for patients and caregivers, respectively. We found the SICP to be acceptable. The majority of patients found the SICP to be very or extremely worthwhile (88.2%; 15/17), and reported it increased closeness with their clinician (75.0%; 12/16). After their visit, patient estimates of curability, and overall life expectancy aligned more closely with those of their clinicians. In qualitative interviews, most patients said that they would recommend this program to others (89.5%, 17/19). This study demonstrated that delivery of the telehealth SICP to older patients with AML and MDS is feasible, usable, and acceptable. This trial is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT04745676.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa LoCastro
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Soroush Mortaz-Hedjri
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Jason H. Mendler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Sally Norton
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Thomas Carroll
- Divisions of General Medicine and Palliative Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Heidi Klepin
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Jane Liesveld
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Eric Huselton
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Benzi Kluger
- Divisions of General Medicine and Palliative Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
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Nakatani MM, Locke SC, Herring KW, Somers T, LeBlanc TW. Expressive writing to address distress in hospitalized adults with acute myeloid leukemia: a pilot randomized clinical trial. J Psychosoc Oncol 2023; 42:587-603. [PMID: 38133149 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2023.2296619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) experience significant distress. Expressive writing is an intervention designed to improve well-being by encouraging expression of emotions related to traumatic experiences. Expressive writing has been shown to be generally feasible and effective at improving the cancer experience but has not been examined in patients with recently diagnosed hematologic malignancies. We examined the feasibility of an expressive writing intervention for hospitalized patients with AML receiving induction chemotherapy. METHODS Fifteen hospitalized AML patients were randomized to complete expressive writing or neutral prompts. Feasibility was defined as 80% of enrolled subjects completing the study. Participants completed validated questionnaires measuring depression, anxiety, resilience, rumination, and quality of life at baseline, completion of the second and fourth writing exercises, and 3 months after enrollment. Participants also completed post-writing surveys following the writing exercise to reflect on the experience. FINDINGS We enrolled 15 participants and 8 of 15 subjects (53%) completed the study. Due to low enrollment, we examined the pre-to-post intervention changes, rather than comparing results across intervention arms. Pre-to-post intervention changes in the expected direction were seen at the second assessment for depression and resilience, at the fourth assessment for rumination, emotional well-being, and social well-being, and at the 3-month follow-up for anxiety and emotional well-being. Similar changes in patient-reported outcomes were also seen in the control condition. Participants who completed the intervention reported the experience was meaningful and were able to express their deepest thoughts and feelings, more so than participants in the control arm. CONCLUSION In our work, the expressive writing intervention was not found to be feasible. The trial was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic which likely impacted the feasibility. Future studies should aim to identify ways to make the intervention more accessible, such as developing an electronic application for expressive writing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tamara Somers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Cao Y, Kunaprayoon D, Ren L. Interpretable AI-assisted clinical decision making (CDM) for dose prescription in radiosurgery of brain metastases. Radiother Oncol 2023; 187:109842. [PMID: 37543055 PMCID: PMC11195016 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE AI modeling physicians' clinical decision-making (CDM) can improve the efficiency and accuracy of clinical practice or serve as a surrogate to provide initial consultations to patients seeking secondary opinions. In this study, we developed an interpretable AI model that predicts dose fractionation for patients receiving radiation therapy for brain metastases with an interpretation of its decision-making process. MATERIALS/METHODS 152 patients with brain metastases treated by radiosurgery from 2017 to 2021 were obtained. CT images and target and organ-at-risk (OAR) contours were extracted. Eight non-image clinical parameters were also extracted and digitized, including age, the number of brain metastasis, ECOG performance status, presence of symptoms, sequencing with surgery (pre- or post-operative radiation therapy), de novo vs. re-treatment, primary cancer type, and metastasis to other sites. 3D convolutional neural networks (CNN) architectures with encoding paths were built based on the CT data and clinical parameters to capture three inputs: (1) Tumor size, shape, and location; (2) The spatial relationship between tumors and OARs; (3) The clinical parameters. The models fuse the features extracted from these three inputs at the decision-making level to learn the input independently to predict dose prescription. Models with different independent paths were developed, including models combining two independent paths (IM-2), three independent paths (IM-3), and ten independent paths (IM-10) at the decision-making level. A class activation score and relative weighting were calculated for each input path during the model prediction to represent the role of each input in the decision-making process, providing an interpretation of the model prediction. The actual prescription in the record was used as ground truth for model training. The model performance was assessed by 19-fold cross-validation, with each fold consisting of randomly selected 128 training, 16 validation, and 8 testing subjects. RESULT The dose prescriptions of 152 patient cases included 48 cases with 1 × 24 Gy, 48 cases with 1 × 20-22 Gy, 32 cases with 3 × 9 Gy, and 24 cases with 5 × 6 Gy prescribed by 8 physicians. IM-2 achieved slightly superior performance than IM-3 and IM-10, with 131 (86%) patients classified correctly and 21 (14%) patients misclassified. IM-10 provided the most interpretability with a relative weighting for each input: target (34%), the relationship between target and OAR (35%), ECOG (6%), re-treatment (6%), metastasis to other sites (6%), number of brain metastases (3%), symptomatic (3%), pre/post-surgery (3%), primary cancer type (2%), age (2%), reflecting the importance of the inputs in decision making. The importance ranking of inputs interpreted from the model also matched closely with a physician's own ranking in the decision process. CONCLUSION Interpretable CNN models were successfully developed to use CT images and non-image clinical parameters to predict dose prescriptions for brain metastases patients treated by radiosurgery. Models showed high prediction accuracy while providing an interpretation of the decision process, which was validated by the physician. Such interpretability makes the model more transparent, which is crucial for the future clinical adoption of the models in routine practice for CDM assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Dan Kunaprayoon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lei Ren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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13
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McCaughan D, Roman E, Sheridan R, Hewison A, Smith AG, Patmore R, Howell DA. Patient perspectives of 'Watch and Wait' for chronic haematological cancers: Findings from a qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 65:102349. [PMID: 37331194 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic blood cancers are incurable, and characterised by unpredictable, remitting-relapsing pathways. Management often involves periods of observation prior to treatment (if required), and post-treatment, in an approach known as 'Watch and Wait'. This study aimed to explore patient experiences of 'Watch and Wait'. METHODS In-depth interviews with 35 patients (10 accompanied by relatives) with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, follicular lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma or myeloma. Data were analysed using descriptive qualitative techniques. RESULTS Patient views of Watch and Wait ranged along a continuum, from immediate acceptance, to concern about treatment deferral. Significant ongoing anxiety and distress were described by some, due to the uncertain pathways associated with Watch and Wait. Infrequent contact with clinical staff was said to exacerbate this, as there was limited opportunity to ask questions and seek reassurance. Patients indicated that the impact of their malignancy could be underestimated by clinicians; possibly due to them comparing chronic and acute subtypes. Most patients lacked knowledge of blood cancers. Support from clinicians was considered greater among treated patients, possibly due to increased contact, and many drew on relatives for aid. Most patients were satisfied with their time-allocation with haematology staff, although experiences could be improved by greater access to clinical nurse specialists, counselling services, and community-based facilities. CONCLUSION Experiences varied. Anxiety about unpredictable futures could be more distressing than any physical symptoms and have a greater impact on quality of life. Ongoing assessment could facilitate identification of difficulties, and is particularly important among individuals without supportive networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy McCaughan
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Eve Roman
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Rebecca Sheridan
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Ann Hewison
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Alexandra G Smith
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Russell Patmore
- Queens Centre for Oncology and Haematology, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, UK.
| | - Debra A Howell
- Epidemiology & Cancer Statistics Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
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14
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Espinoza Suarez NR, Hargraves I, Singh Ospina N, Sivly A, Majka A, Brito JP. Collaborative Diagnostic Conversations Between Clinicians, Patients, and Their Families: A Way to Avoid Diagnostic Errors. Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes 2023; 7:291-300. [PMID: 37457857 PMCID: PMC10344690 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify the components of the collaborative diagnostic conversations between clinicians, patients, and their families and how deficiencies in these conversations can lead to diagnostic errors. Patients and Methods We purposively selected 60 video recordings of clinical encounters that included diagnosis conversations. These videos were obtained from the internal medicine, and family medicine services at Mayo Clinic's campus in Rochester, Minnesota. These clinical encounters were recorded between November 2017, and December 2021, during the conduct of studies aiming at developing or testing shared decision-making interventions. We followed a critically reflective approach model for data analysis. Results We identified 3 components of diagnostic conversations as follows: (1) recognizing diagnostic situations, (2) setting priorities, and (3) creating and reconciling a diagnostic plan. Deficiencies in diagnostic conversations could lead to framing issues in a way that sets diagnostic activities off in an incorrect or undesirable direction, incorrect prioritization of diagnostic concerns, and diagnostic plans of care that are not feasible, desirable, or productive. Conclusion We identified 3 clinician-and-patient diagnostic conversation components and mapped them to potential diagnostic errors. This information may inform additional research to identify areas of intervention to decrease the frequency and harm associated with diagnostic errors in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly R Espinoza Suarez
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Ian Hargraves
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Naykky Singh Ospina
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Angela Sivly
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Andrew Majka
- Mayo Clinic Emeritus consultant, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Juan P Brito
- Knowledge and Evaluation Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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15
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Daniels NC, Bodd MH, Locke SC, LeBlanc TW. In their own words: a qualitative study of coping mechanisms employed by patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:443. [PMID: 37405579 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07917-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Positive coping mediates improved outcomes from integrated palliative care in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We qualitatively explored patients' coping mechanisms to better understand this relationship. METHODS We enrolled patients with high-risk AML admitted to Duke Hospital's inpatient hematologic malignancy service for intensive chemotherapy. This study is a secondary analysis of previously collected longitudinal qualitative data, with interviews conducted between February 2014 and August 2015. Interviews were coded in NVivo to identify examples of approach-oriented and avoidant coping. RESULTS Patients demonstrated approach-oriented coping in many forms including acceptance, positive reframing, active coping, religious coping, and social coping. Acceptance included accepting their prognosis, the uncertainty of AML, and lifestyle changes due to the disease. Patients exhibited positive reframing by speculating about how their situation could be worse, deriving meaning from their experience, and expressing newfound appreciation for activities previously taken for granted. Social coping involved patients receiving support from their community or care team; however, some expressed guilt for being a "burden" on family. Avoidant coping included denial, behavioral disengagement, and self-blame. Some denied their prognosis, but denial was more commonly demonstrated via patients cognitively distancing themselves from their disease. Much of the behavioral disengagement described by patients was attributed to their symptoms (i.e., lethargy) which prevented patients from maintaining relationships or participating in activities previously enjoyed. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate the diverse and nuanced applications of coping mechanisms amid a recent AML diagnosis. Future research should examine coping in the context of novel low-intensity AML therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica H Bodd
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | | | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, USA.
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16
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Cella D, Kelly K, de la Motte A, Toublan F, Pandya BJ, Shah MV, LeBlanc TW. The experience of patients with acute myeloid leukemia in remission post-transplant. Leuk Lymphoma 2023; 64:1275-1284. [PMID: 37291866 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2023.2210711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and its treatment can negatively impact patient functioning and quality of life. Through concept elicitation interviews, we sought to evaluate the experience of patients with AML in remission following hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Thirty patients with AML in remission post-HSCT, and eight clinicians with experience treating such patients, were asked to identify symptoms and impacts associated with AML and/or its treatment. The findings were used to develop an AML conceptual disease model to reflect the experience of these patients. We identified five symptoms and six impacts that were salient to patients with AML in remission post-HSCT. Although clinician and patient perspectives largely aligned, emotional and cognitive impacts were most important to patients, whereas clinicians focused on physical impacts. This model could be used to ensure patient-reported outcome measures included in clinical trials are reflective of the post-HSCT AML patient experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Cella
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Manasee V Shah
- Astellas Pharma Global Development Inc, Northbrook, IL, USA
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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17
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LoCastro M, Wang Y, Sanapala C, Jensen-Battaglia M, Wittink M, Norton S, Klepin HD, Richardson DR, Mendler JH, Liesveld J, Huselton E, Loh KP. Patient preferences, regret, and health-related quality of life among older adults with acute myeloid leukemia: A pilot longitudinal study. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101529. [PMID: 37244139 PMCID: PMC10288066 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2023.101529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is associated with poor outcomes and is generally incurable. Therefore, understanding preferences of older adults with AML is critical. We sought to assess whether best-worst scaling (BWS) can be used to capture attributes considered by older adults with AML when making initial treatment decisions and longitudinally, as well as assess changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and decisional regret over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a longitudinal study for adults ≥60 years with newly diagnosed AML, we collected: (1) attributes of treatment most important to patients using BWS, (2) HRQoL using EQ-5D-5L, (3) decisional regret using the Decisional Regret Scale, and (4) treatment worthiness using the "Was it worth it?" questionnaire. Data was collected at baseline and over six months. A hierarchical Bayes model was used to allocate percentages out of 100%. Due to small sample size, hypothesis testing was performed at α = 0.10 (2-tailed). We analyzed how these measures differed by treatment choice (intensive vs. lower intensity treatment). RESULTS Mean age of patients was 76 years (n = 15). At baseline, the most important attributes of treatment to patients were response to treatment (i.e., chance that the cancer will respond to treatment; 20.9%). Compared to those who received lower intensity treatment (n = 7) or best supportive care (n = 2), those who received intensive treatment (n = 6) generally ranked "alive one year or more after treatment" (p = 0.03) with higher importance and ranked "daily activities" (p = 0.01) and "location of treatment" (p = 0.01) with less importance. Overall, HRQoL scores were high. Decisional regret was mild overall and lower for patients who chose intensive treatment (p = 0.06). DISCUSSION We demonstrated that BWS can be used to assess the importance of various treatment attributes considered by older adults with AML when making initial treatment decisions and longitudinally throughout treatment. Attributes of treatment important to older patients with AML differed between treatment groups and changed over time. Interventions are needed to re-assess patient priorities throughout treatment to ensure care aligns with patient preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa LoCastro
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA.
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
| | | | - Marielle Jensen-Battaglia
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
| | - Marsha Wittink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Sally Norton
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA.
| | - Heidi D Klepin
- Section on Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | - Daniel R Richardson
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Jason H Mendler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Jane Liesveld
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Eric Huselton
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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18
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Black GB, Boswell L, Harris J, Whitaker KL. What causes delays in diagnosing blood cancers? A rapid review of the evidence. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2023; 24:e26. [PMID: 37039465 PMCID: PMC10156470 DOI: 10.1017/s1463423623000129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We undertook a rapid review of literature relating to the diagnosis of blood cancers, to find out what factors contribute to delays in diagnosis, including symptom recognition, appraisal and help-seeking behaviours. METHODS We used rapid review methodology following Tricco et al. to synthesise current literature from two electronic databases. We searched for studies about symptom appraisal help-seeking for all blood cancers published between 2001 and 2021, written in English. RESULTS Fifteen studies were included in the review, of which 10 were published in the United Kingdom. We found a number of factors associated with delays in blood cancer diagnosis. These included patient factors such as gender, age and ethnicity, as well as health system factors such as poor communication and seeing a locum clinician in primary care. A narrative synthesis of the evidence produced four types of symptom interpretation by patients: (1) symptoms compatible with normal state of health, (2) event-linked problems, (3) mild or chronic illness and (4) non-specific unwell state. These four interpretations were linked to different help-seeking behaviours. After seeking help, patients often experienced delays due to healthcare professionals' (HCPs') non-serious interpretation of symptoms, misleading blood tests, discontinuity of care and other barriers in the diagnostic pathway. CONCLUSION Blood cancers are difficult to diagnose due to non-specific heterogeneous symptoms, and this is reflected in how those symptoms are interpreted by patients and managed by HCPs. It is important to understand how different interpretations affect delays in help-seeking, and what HCPs can do to support timely follow-up for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia B. Black
- Reader in Applied Health Research, Wolfson Institute of Population Health,
Queen Mary University of London, London,
UK
| | - Laura Boswell
- PhD student, School of Health Sciences, University of
Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Jenny Harris
- Senior Lecturer in Cancer Care, School of Health Sciences,
University of Surrey, Guildford,
UK
| | - Katriina L. Whitaker
- Professor of Psychology and Lead for Cancer Care, School of Health
Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford,
UK
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19
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El-Jawahri A, Luskin MR, Greer JA, Traeger L, Lavoie M, Vaughn DM, Andrews S, Yang D, Boateng KY, Newcomb RA, Ufere NN, Fathi AT, Hobbs G, Brunner A, Abel GA, Stone RM, DeAngelo DJ, Wadleigh M, Temel JS. Psychological mobile app for patients with acute myeloid leukemia: A pilot randomized clinical trial. Cancer 2023; 129:1075-1084. [PMID: 36655338 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) experience a substantial decline in quality of life (QoL) and mood during their hospitalization for intensive chemotherapy, yet few interventions have been developed to enhance patient-reported outcomes during treatment. METHODS We conducted a pilot randomized trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03372291) of DREAMLAND, a psychological mobile application for patients with a new diagnosis of AML who are receiving intensive chemotherapy. Patients were randomly assigned to DREAMLAND or usual care. DREAMLAND included four required modules focused on: (1) supportive psychotherapy to help patients deal with the initial shock of diagnosis, (2) psychoeducation to manage illness expectations, (3) psychosocial skill-building to promote effective coping, and (4) self-care. The primary end point was feasibility, which was defined as ≥60% of eligible patients enrolling and 60% of those enrolled completing ≥60% of the required modules. We assessed patient QoL (the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Leukemia), psychological distress (the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9), symptom burden (the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale), and self-efficacy (the Cancer Self-Efficacy Scale) at baseline and at day 20 after postchemotherapy. RESULTS We enrolled 60 of 90 eligible patients (66.7%), and 62.1% completed ≥75% of the intervention modules. At day 20 after chemotherapy, patients who were randomized to DREAMLAND reported improved QoL scores (132.06 vs. 110.72; p =.001), lower anxiety symptoms (3.54 vs. 5.64; p = .010) and depression symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale: 4.76 vs. 6.29; p = .121; Patient Health Questionnaire-9: 4.62 vs. 8.35; p < .001), and improved symptom burden (24.89 vs. 40.60; p = .007) and self-efficacy (151.84 vs. 135.43; p = .004) compared with the usual care group. CONCLUSIONS A psychological mobile application for patients with newly diagnosed AML is feasible to integrate during hospitalization for intensive chemotherapy and may improve QoL, mood, symptom burden, and self-efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej El-Jawahri
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marlise R Luskin
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lara Traeger
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mitchell Lavoie
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dagny Marie Vaughn
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephanie Andrews
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel Yang
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kofi Y Boateng
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard A Newcomb
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nneka N Ufere
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amir T Fathi
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gabriela Hobbs
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew Brunner
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gregory A Abel
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard M Stone
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel J DeAngelo
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martha Wadleigh
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Divsion of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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20
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Bylund CL, Eggly S, LeBlanc TW, Kurtin S, Gandee M, Medhekar R, Fu A, Khurana M, Delaney K, Divita A, McNamara M, Baile WF. Survey of patients and physicians on shared decision-making in treatment selection in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. Transl Behav Med 2023; 13:255-267. [PMID: 36688466 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibac099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Shared decision-making (SDM) is a key component of patient-centered healthcare. SDM is particularly pertinent in the relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) setting, in which numerous treatment options can present challenges for identifying optimal care. However, few studies have assessed the extent and relevance of SDM and patient-centered communication (PCC) in RRMM. To describe treatment decision-making patterns between physicians and patients in the RRMM setting, we conducted online surveys of patients and physicians in the USA to compare their perspectives on the process of treatment decision-making. We analyzed the surveys descriptively. Two hundred hematologists/oncologists and 200 patients with RRMM receiving second-line (n = 89), third-line (n = 65), and fourth-line (n = 46) therapy participated. Top treatment goals for physicians and patients included extending overall survival (among 76% and 83% of physicians and patients, respectively) and progression-free survival (among 54% and 77% of physicians and patients, respectively), regardless of the number of prior relapses. Thirty percent of physicians believed patients preferred a shared approach to treatment decision-making, while 40% of patients reported most often preferring a shared role in treatment decision-making. One-fourth of patients most often preferred physicians to make the final treatment decision after seriously considering their opinion. Thirty-two percent of physicians and 16% of patients recalled ≥3 treatment options presented at first relapse. Efficacy was a primary treatment goal for patients and physicians. Discrepancies in their perceptions during RRMM treatment decision-making exist, indicating that communication tools are needed to facilitate SDM and PCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carma L Bylund
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Susan Eggly
- Wayne State University Department of Oncology/Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sandra Kurtin
- University of Arizona and Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Rohan Medhekar
- Research and Development, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Alan Fu
- Research and Development, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | - Monica Khurana
- Research and Development, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Walter F Baile
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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21
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LoCastro M, Sanapala C, Mendler JH, Norton S, Bernacki R, Carroll T, Klepin H, Watson E, Liesveld J, Huselton E, O'Dwyer K, Baran A, Flannery M, Kluger BM, Loh KP. Advance care planning in older patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. J Geriatr Oncol 2023; 14:101374. [PMID: 36100548 PMCID: PMC9974785 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) have worse survival rates compared to younger patients, and experience more intense inpatient healthcare at the end of life (EOL) compared to patients with solid tumors. Advance care planning (ACP) has been shown to limit aggressive and burdensome care at EOL for patients with AML and MDS. The purpose of this study was to better understand ACP from the perspective of clinicians, older patients with AML and MDS, and their caregivers. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 45 study participants. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Open coding and focused content analysis were used to organize data and develop and contextualize categories and subcategories. RESULTS Guided by our specific aims, we developed four themes: (1) The language of ACP and medical order for life-sustaining treatment (MOLST) does not resonate with patients, (2) There is no uniform consensus on when ACP is currently happening, (3) Oncology clinician-perceived barriers to ACP (e.g., patient discomfort, patient lack of knowledge, and lack of time), and (4) Patients felt that they are balancing fear and hope when navigating their AML or MDS diagnosis. DISCUSSION The results of this study can be used to develop interventions to promote serious illness conversations for patients with AML and MDS and their caregivers to ensure that patient care aligns with patient values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa LoCastro
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Chandrika Sanapala
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Jason H Mendler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Sally Norton
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Rachelle Bernacki
- Department of Palliative Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Thomas Carroll
- Division of General Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Heidi Klepin
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | | | - Jane Liesveld
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Eric Huselton
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Kristen O'Dwyer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Andrea Baran
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester, New York, USA.
| | - Marie Flannery
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Benzi M Kluger
- Division of General Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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22
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Fadem S. Investigating and Supporting Patient and Caregiver Sensemaking in Complex Medical Decisions Using Participatory Design. MDM Policy Pract 2023; 8:23814683231164988. [PMID: 37077898 PMCID: PMC10107376 DOI: 10.1177/23814683231164988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Patients and caregivers facing complex health decisions must make sense of unfamiliar, emotionally challenging information and experiences. For patients with hematological malignancy, bone marrow transplant (BMT) may be the best chance for a cure but has significant risk of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate and support patient and caregiver sensemaking as they consider BMT. Methods. Ten BMT patients and 5 caregivers engaged in remote participatory design (PD) workshops. Participants drew timelines of their memorable experiences leading up to BMT. Then, they used transparency paper to annotate their timelines and design improvements to this process. Results. Thematic analysis of drawings and transcripts revealed a 3-phase sensemaking process. In phase 1, participants were introduced to BMT and understood it as a possibility, not an inevitability. In phase 2, they focused on meeting prerequisites including remission and donor identification. Participants came to believe they needed transplant, consequently describing BMT not as a decision between viable options, but that transplant was their "only chance" for survival. In phase 3, participants attended an orientation detailing the extensive risks of transplant, leading to anxiety and doubt. Participants designed solutions that provided reassurance to those grappling with the life-altering impacts of transplant. Conclusions. For patients and caregivers navigating complex health decisions, sensemaking is a dynamic, ongoing process that affects expectations and emotional well-being. Interventions targeting reassurance alongside risk information can alleviate emotional impact and facilitate expectation development. The integration of PD and sensemaking methodologies enables participants to create holistic, tangible representations of experiences while empowering stakeholder engagement in intervention design. This method could be applied to other complex medical contexts to understand lived experiences and develop effective support interventions. Highlights Bone marrow transplant patients and caregivers experienced an evolving, emotionally challenging process of gradually understanding the transplant procedure and its risks.The solutions that participants designed centered on providing reassurance alongside risk information, suggesting future interventions could target emotional support as patients attempt to meet prerequisites and grapple with the risks of the potentially curative procedure.By viewing the challenges of complex medical decisions in terms of sensemaking and applying visual methods such as participatory design, researchers can facilitate expression of the dynamic, multifaceted, emotional components of experience and empower stakeholder involvement in intervention design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Fadem
- Sarah Fadem, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical
School, 1 Robert Wood Johnson Place, Piscataway, NJ 08854-5635, USA;
()
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23
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AI-assisted clinical decision making (CDM) for dose prescription in radiosurgery of brain metastases using three-path three-dimensional CNN. Clin Transl Radiat Oncol 2022; 39:100565. [PMID: 36594076 PMCID: PMC9804100 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctro.2022.100565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose AI modeling physicians' clinical decision-making (CDM) can improve the efficiency and accuracy of clinical practice or serve as a surrogate to provide initial consultations to patients seeking secondary opinions. In this study, we developed an AI network to model radiotherapy CDM and used dose prescription as an example to demonstrate its feasibility. Materials/Methods 152 patients with brain metastases treated by radiosurgery from 2017 to 2021 were included. CT images and tumor and organ-at-risk (OAR) contours were exported. Eight relevant clinical parameters were extracted and digitized, including age, numbers of lesions, performance status (ECOG), presence of symptoms, arrangement with surgery (pre- or post-surgery radiation therapy), re-treatment, primary cancer type, and metastasis to other sites. A 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture was built using three encoding paths with the same kernel and filters to capture the different image and contour features. Specifically, one path was built to capture the tumor feature, including the size and location of the tumor, another path was built to capture the relative spatial relationship between the tumor and OARs, and the third path was built to capture the clinical parameters. The model combines information from three paths to predict dose prescription. The actual prescription in the patient record was used as ground truth for model training. The model performance was assessed by 19-fold-cross-validation, with each fold consisting of randomly selected 128 training, 16 validation, and 8 testing subjects. Result The dose prescriptions of 152 patient cases included 48 cases with 1 × 24 Gy, 48 cases with 1 × 20-22 Gy, 32 cases with 3 × 9 Gy, and 24 cases with 5 × 6 Gy prescribed by 8 physicians. The AI model prescribed correctly for 124 (82 %) cases, including 44 (92 %) cases with 1 × 24 Gy, 36 (75 %) cases with 1 × 20-22 Gy, 25 (78 %) cases with 3 × 9 Gy, and 19 (79 %) cases with 5 × 6 Gy. Analysis of the failed cases showed the potential cause of practice variations across individual physicians, which were not accounted for in the model trained by the group data. Including clinical parameters improved the overall prediction accuracy by 20 %. Conclusion To our best knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the feasibility of AI in predicting dose prescription in CDM in radiation therapy. Such CDM models can serve as vital tools to address healthcare disparities by providing preliminary consultations to patients in underdeveloped areas or as a valuable quality assurance (QA) tool for physicians to cross-check intra- and inter-institution practices.
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24
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El-Jawahri A. How Can We Design a Better Care Model to Address the Acute Distress of an Acute Leukemia Diagnosis? Care Models to Address the Acute Distress of an Acute Leukemia Diagnosis. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2022; 35:101409. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2022.101409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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25
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Abdallah M, Kadambi S, Parsi M, Rai M, Mendler JH, Wittink M, Duberstein PR, Tsang M, Klepin HD, Loh KP. Older patients' experiences following initial diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia: A qualitative study. J Geriatr Oncol 2022; 13:1230-1235. [PMID: 36064536 PMCID: PMC9982634 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2022.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The onset of symptoms and the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) often occur suddenly and may lead to a range of emotional responses. Understanding patients' experiences and emotional states allows clinicians to tailor care to patients' needs. Previous studies have largely focused on patients' experiences at diagnosis and after remission has been achieved among those who received intensive chemotherapy. In this study, we evaluated experiences of older patients with AML who had received or were receiving treatments of varying intensity, in both outpatient and inpatient settings, and who were at different stages in their treatment course at the time of our interviews. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a single center qualitative study which aimed to understand factors influencing older patients' treatment decision-making and the findings were previously reported. This analysis specifically explored older patients' experiences at various stages after AML diagnosis. We purposively sampled patients based on treatment intensity and stage of treatment (undergoing induction treatment, post-remission treatment, or post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant). We recruited fifteen patients aged ≥60 years with AML. The sample size was determined based on reaching data saturation for the primary study aim. For this analysis, data saturation was reached by the fourteenth manuscript. In-depth semi-structured interviews that had been recorded and transcribed were re-analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to explore patients' experiences. Coding was performed using Atlas.ti. We identified themes with the aim of capturing the most commonly shared experiences. RESULTS Mean age of the fifteen patients was 72.1 years; all had received one or more treatments including intensive induction therapy (10/15), lower-intensity treatment (7/15), and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (3/15). Patients experienced strong negative emotional responses, including shock, that were barriers to processing information and meaningful communication. Patients also shared their perspectives on communication with healthcare professionals (including thoughts on adequacy of information provided) and coping strategies. DISCUSSION Understanding older patients' experiences, including emotional responses and barriers to communication and decision making, at AML diagnosis and throughout the illness trajectory allows clinicians to address patients' supportive care needs during this difficult period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Abdallah
- Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Sindhuja Kadambi
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Meghana Parsi
- MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ, United States of America.
| | - Maitreyee Rai
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, United States of America
| | - Jason H Mendler
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Marsha Wittink
- Departments of Psychiatry and Family Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
| | - Paul R Duberstein
- Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, United States of America.
| | - Mazie Tsang
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America.
| | - Heidi D Klepin
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical Center Blvd, Winston-Salem, NC, United States of America.
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States of America.
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26
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How Caregivers Cope and Adapt When a Family Member Is Diagnosed With a Hematologic Malignancy: Informing Supportive Care Needs. Cancer Nurs 2022; 45:E849-E855. [PMID: 35120021 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal family caregivers (FCs) of adults with various diseases including hematologic malignancy (HM) experience low quality of life and psychological well-being. Although HMs are life-threatening cancers associated with high mortality, numerous symptoms, and lengthy hospitalizations and are therefore likely to be challenging for FCs to cope with, there is scant research exploring FC experiences. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the coping and adaptation of FCs of patients during diagnosis and treatment of HM. METHODS This study used a qualitative descriptive design to analyze semi-structured interview responses from FCs (N = 28) within 3 months of the patients' HM diagnosis. A content analysis was conducted to generate common themes. RESULTS Family caregivers endorsed adaptive and maladaptive coping. Adaptive strategies included taking one day at a time, spirituality, engaging in pastimes, and utilizing emotional and instrumental family and community support. Maladaptive coping included wishful thinking, harmful habits, avoidance, and lacking or being unable to accept family and community support. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the complexities of caregiver burden as they support their loved ones with HM. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Family caregivers would benefit from receiving an interdisciplinary family-centered approach as their HM person is initiating treatment. Nurses should consider assessing the FCs' psychosocial needs to help facilitate appropriate services, such as palliative care consultations, social work referrals, support groups, and/or counseling.
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27
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Morikawa M, Shirai Y. Qualitative Analysis of the Roles of Physicians and Nurses in Providing Decision Support to Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Leukemia and Lymphoma. Cancer Control 2022; 29:10732748221131003. [PMID: 36268680 PMCID: PMC9597203 DOI: 10.1177/10732748221131003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study examined the roles of hematologists and other professionals in
providing decision support to patients with relapsed or refractory leukemia
and lymphoma. Methods This was a qualitative study using in-depth semi-structured interviews
involving 11 hematologists in Japan. Result We identified 7 categories related to the roles of hematologists in providing
direct decision support to patients: (1) preparing patients before informed
consent, (2) selecting the information to convey, (3) choosing a method for
conveying this information, (4) respecting the intentions of patients and
their families, (5) directing decision-making and considering fairness, (6)
considering the emotional aspects of patients and their families, and (7)
providing support after discussing treatment options. We also identified the
following 5 subcategories related to the roles of hematologists in
multidisciplinary collaboration: (1) communicating with other professionals,
(2) gathering information from them, (3) providing information to them, (4)
managing the entire medical team, and (5) encouraging nurses to actively
participate with patients throughout the decision-making process. Conclusion Through content analysis, the hematologist’s direct role in decision-making
was extracted as preparation and consideration in situations where
information about decision-making is communicated, and emotional support
after the information is communicated. In addition, active participation in
discussions, sharing information about the patient’s situation and relevant
discussions, and emotional support as the hematologist’s expected roles in
other professions were extracted. The results therefore suggest that a
multidisciplinary team is needed to share information and provide
multidimensional support to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuki Shirai
- Department of Human Health
Sciences, Kyoto
University, Kyoto, Japan,Yuki Shirai, Department of Human Health
Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Shougoinkawaharacho, Kyoto Sakyo-ku, 606-8507
Kyoto, Japan.
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28
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Shaulov A, Aviv A, Alcalde J, Zimmermann C. Early integration of palliative care for patients with haematological malignancies. Br J Haematol 2022; 199:14-30. [PMID: 35670630 PMCID: PMC9796711 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Early palliative care (EPC) significantly improves quality of life, symptoms, and satisfaction with care for patients with advanced cancer. International organizations have recognized and promoted the role of palliative care as a distinct specialty, advocating its involvement throughout the cancer trajectory. Although patients with haematologic malignancies (HMs) have a comparable symptom burden to patients with solid tumours, they face multiple barriers to EPC integration. In this review, we discuss these barriers, present updated evidence from clinical trials of EPC in HMs and propose models to support EPC integration into care for patients with HMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adir Shaulov
- Department of HaematologyHadassah Medical CenterJerusalemIsrael,Faculty of MedicineHebrew University of JerusalemIsrael
| | - Ariel Aviv
- Department of HaematologyHaEmek Medical CenterAfulaIsrael
| | - Jacqueline Alcalde
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer CentreUniversity Health NetworkTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer CentreUniversity Health NetworkTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada,Department of PsychiatryUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
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29
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Cole A, Richardson DR, Adapa K, Khasawneh A, Crossnohere N, Bridges JFP, Mazur L. Development of a Patient-Centered Preference Tool for Patients With Hematologic Malignancies: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e39586. [PMID: 35767340 PMCID: PMC9280452 DOI: 10.2196/39586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The approval of novel therapies for patients diagnosed with hematologic malignancies have improved survival outcomes but increased the challenge of aligning chemotherapy choices with patient preferences. We previously developed paper versions of a discrete choice experiment (DCE) and a best-worst scaling (BWS) instrument to quantify the treatment outcome preferences of patients with hematologic malignancies to inform shared decision making. OBJECTIVE We aim to develop an electronic health care tool (EHT) to guide clinical decision making that uses either a BWS or DCE instrument to capture patient preferences. The primary objective of this study is to use both qualitative and quantitative methods to evaluate the perceived usability, cognitive workload (CWL), and performance of electronic prototypes that include the DCE and BWS instrument. METHODS This mixed methods study includes iterative co-design methods that will involve healthy volunteers, patient-caregiver pairs, and health care workers to evaluate the perceived usability, CWL, and performance of tasks within distinct prototypes. Think-aloud sessions and semistructured interviews will be conducted to collect qualitative data to develop an affinity diagram for thematic analysis. Validated assessments (Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire [PSSUQ] and the National Aeronautical and Space Administration's Task Load Index [NASA-TLX]) will be used to evaluate the usability and CWL required to complete tasks within the prototypes. Performance assessments of the DCE and BWS will include the evaluation of tasks using the Single Easy Questionnaire (SEQ), time to complete using the prototype, and the number of errors. Additional qualitative assessments will be conducted to gather participants' feedback on visualizations used in the Personalized Treatment Preferences Dashboard that provides a representation of user results after completing the choice tasks within the prototype. RESULTS Ethical approval was obtained in June 2021 from the Institutional Review Board of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The DCE and BWS instruments were developed and incorporated into the PRIME (Preference Reporting to Improve Management and Experience) prototype in early 2021 and prototypes were completed by June 2021. Heuristic evaluations were conducted in phase 1 and completed by July 2021. Recruitment of healthy volunteers began in August 2021 and concluded in September 2021. In December 2021, our findings from phase 2 were accepted for publication. Phase 3 recruitment began in January 2022 and is expected to conclude in September 2022. The data analysis from phase 3 is expected to be completed by November 2022. CONCLUSIONS Our findings will help differentiate the usability, CWL, and performance of the DCE and BWS within the prototypes. These findings will contribute to the optimization of the prototypes, leading to the development of an EHT that helps facilitate shared decision making. This evaluation will inform the development of EHTs to be used clinically with patients and health care workers. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/39586.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Cole
- Carolina Health Informatics Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Daniel R Richardson
- University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Karthik Adapa
- Division of Healthcare Engineering, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Amro Khasawneh
- Industrial Engineering Department, School of Engineering, Mercer University, Macon, GA, United States
| | - Norah Crossnohere
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - John F P Bridges
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Lukasz Mazur
- Division of Healthcare Engineering, Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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30
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LeBlanc TW, Russell NH, Hernandez-Aldama L, Panter C, Bell TJ, Welch V, Vega DM, O'Hara L, Stein J, Barclay M, Peloquin F, Brown A, Healy J, Morgan L, Gater A, Hohman R, Amer K, Maze D, Walter RB. Patient, Family Member and Physician Perspectives and Experiences with AML Treatment Decision-Making. Oncol Ther 2022; 10:421-440. [PMID: 35695986 PMCID: PMC9189260 DOI: 10.1007/s40487-022-00200-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Treatment decisions in older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are challenging, particularly for those who are not candidates for intensive chemotherapy (IC), and the trade-offs patients, their families and physicians consider when choosing a treatment option are not well understood. This qualitative research explored the value of extending survival and the treatment decision-making process from a multi-stakeholder perspective. Methods Overall, 28 patients with AML (≥ 65 years old, unsuitable for IC), 25 of their relatives and 10 independent physicians from the US, UK and Canada took part in one-on-one, 60-minute qualitative interviews. Results Across all stakeholders, improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL), extended survival and relief of AML symptoms were recognized as most important in AML treatment decision-making. However, extending survival in ‘good health’ was more important than extending survival alone, particularly because of the extra time it gives patients and their relatives together, and allows patients to achieve important goals. Patients’ limited understanding of available treatment options, paired with incorrect perceptions of treatment side effects, impacted their involvement in the treatment decision-making process. Patients and physicians perceived physicians to have the most influence in the decision-making process despite their priorities not always aligning. Conclusion These findings illustrate the importance of having structured discussions which explicitly assess patients’ goals and their understanding and expectations of treatments and also the need for patient friendly resources about the lived experience of AML and available treatment options. These measures will help to ensure that patients are fully involved in the shared decision-making process. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40487-022-00200-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W LeBlanc
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Louise O'Hara
- Adelphi Values Patient-Centered Outcomes, Cheshire, UK
| | - Julia Stein
- Adelphi Values Patient-Centered Outcomes, Cheshire, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Lucy Morgan
- Adelphi Values Patient-Centered Outcomes, Cheshire, UK
| | - Adam Gater
- Adelphi Values Patient-Centered Outcomes, Cheshire, UK
| | - Ryan Hohman
- Friends of Cancer Research, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Dawn Maze
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Code Status Transitions in Patients with High-Risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Blood Adv 2022; 6:4208-4215. [PMID: 35537113 PMCID: PMC9327548 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with AML often undergo code status transitions near the end of life; median time from last code status change to death was 2 days. Patients participated in only 60.5% of final code status transitions, highlighting a need for earlier conversations to improve involvement.
Patients with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) often experience intensive medical care at the end of life (EOL), including high rates of hospitalizations and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. Despite this, studies examining code status transitions are lacking. We conducted a mixed-methods study of 200 patients with high-risk AML enrolled in supportive care studies at Massachusetts General Hospital between 2014 and 2021. We defined high-risk AML as relapsed/refractory or diagnosis at age ≥60. We used a consensus-driven medical record review to characterize code status transitions. At diagnosis, 86.0% (172/200) of patients were “full code” (38.5% presumed, 47.5% confirmed) and 8.5% had restrictions on life-sustaining therapies. Overall, 57.0% of patients experienced a transition during the study period. The median time from the last transition to death was 2 days (range, 0-350). Most final transitions (71.1%) were to comfort measures near EOL; only 60.5% of patients participated in these last transitions. We identified 3 conversation types leading to transitions: informative conversations focusing on futility after clinical deterioration (51.0%), anticipatory conversations at the time of acute deterioration (32.2%), and preemptive conversations (15.6%) before deterioration. Younger age (B = 0.04; P = .002) and informative conversations (B = −2.79; P < .001) were associated with shorter time from last transition to death. Over two-thirds of patients were “presumed full code” at diagnosis of high-risk AML, and most experienced code status transitions focused on the futility of continuing life-sustaining therapies near EOL. These results suggest that goals-of-care discussions occur late in the illness course for patients with AML and warrant interventions to increase earlier discussions regarding EOL preferences.
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Button E, Cardona M, Huntley K, Gavin NC, LeBlanc TW, Olsen A, Smith M, Yates P. Clinicians' Understanding of Preferences and Values of People with Hematological Malignancies at the End of Life: Concurrent Surveys. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:1386-1397. [PMID: 35443803 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: People with hematological malignancies can deteriorate rapidly to a terminal event and have variable levels of engagement when transitioning to palliative and end-of-life care. Objectives: To describe end-of-life care values and preferences of people with hematological malignancies and explore whether these align with hematology clinicians' perceptions. Design: Two matched anonymous quantitative cross-sectional surveys explored: (1) patients' values and preferences around manner and timing of discussions regarding life expectancy and prognosis, involvement in decision making, and concurrent integration of palliative care with active treatment; and (2) clinicians' perceptions of their patients' values and preferences in relation to prognostic information. Settings/Participants: Concurrent online national surveys of people with hematological malignancies known to the Leukemia Foundation of Australia, and clinicians in Australia with membership to the Hematology Society of Australia and New Zealand. Results: Five hundred nine (38% response rate) patients (median age 64 [min 20, max 89, interquartile range 56-70]) and 272 clinicians (21% response rate) responded to the survey. If their health was deteriorating, most patients wanted honest prognostic and life expectancy information (87%); welcomed involvement in decision making (94%); felt they would be comfortable talking to the treating team about the possibility of death (86%); and would be comfortable seeing someone from a specialist palliative care team (74%). Clinicians generally underestimated most of these responses. Conclusion: Although our findings indicate that most people believe they would be comfortable discussing prognosis, life expectancy, and wishes at the end of life, clinicians were largely unaware of their preferences. This highlights the need to embed values clarification in routine care for each patient and family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Button
- Cancer and Palliative Outcomes Center, Center for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia.,Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Magnolia Cardona
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kathryn Huntley
- Leukemia Foundation of Australia, Windsor, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole C Gavin
- Cancer and Palliative Outcomes Center, Center for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia.,Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Division of Hematological Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Avalon Olsen
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Smith
- Cancer and Palliative Outcomes Center, Center for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia.,Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Patsy Yates
- Cancer and Palliative Outcomes Center, Center for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
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33
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Poor E, Chan YN, Iadonisi K, Tan K, Leak Bryant A. Exploring Experiences of Bereaved Caregivers of Older Adult Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2022; 26:135-139. [PMID: 35302558 DOI: 10.1188/22.cjon.135-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Caregivers of older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are requiring more support now that novel, nonintensive therapies, such as hypomethylating agents and venetoclax, are shifting the burden of care to the outpatient setting. Early findings from a larger study describe supportive care needs from the perspective of bereaved caregivers that align with existing research, informing the development of best practices for oncology nurses who support caregivers of older adults with AML.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kelly Tan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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34
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McCaughan D, Roman E, Smith A, Patmore R, Howell D. Treatment decision making (TDM): a qualitative study exploring the perspectives of patients with chronic haematological cancers. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e050816. [PMID: 35351694 PMCID: PMC8966575 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Haematological malignancies are the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with chronic subtypes comprising around a third of all new diagnoses. These complex diseases have some similarities with other cancers, but often require different management. Surgical resection is not possible, and while some are curable with intensive chemotherapy, most indolent subtypes are managed with non-aggressive intermittent or continuous treatment, often over many years. Little is known about the views of patients with chronic haematological cancers regarding treatment decision making (TDM), a deficit our study aimed to address. SETTING AND DESIGN Set within the Haematological Malignancy Research Network (HMRN: www.hmrn.org), an ongoing population-based cohort that provides infrastructure to support evidence-based research, HMRN data were augmented by qualitative information from in-depth interviews. Data were analysed for thematic content, combining inductive and deductive approaches. Interpretation involved seeking meaning, salience and connections within data. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-five patients with four chronic subtypes: chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, follicular lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and myeloma. Ten relatives were present and contributed to varying extents. RESULTS Five themes were discerned: (1) Preference for clinician recommendations; (2) Factors implicated in patient involvement in TDM; (3) Perceptions of proactive/non-proactive approaches to TDM; (4) Experiences of TDM at various points in the disease trajectory; (5) Support from others. Our principal finding relates to a strong preference among interviewees for treatment recommendations from haematologists, based on trust in their expertise and perceptions of empathetic patient-clinician relationships. CONCLUSION Interviewees wanted to be involved in TDM to varying extents, contingent on complex, inter-related factors, that are dynamic and subject to change according to differing clinical and personal contexts. Patients may benefit from clinicians assessing their shifting preferences for involvement on multiple occasions. Strong preferences for acceptance of recommendations was associated with cancer complexity, trust in clinician expertise and positive perceptions of patient-clinician relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eve Roman
- Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Russell Patmore
- Queens Centre for Oncology, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, UK
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35
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Fadem S, Mikesell L. Patient and Provider Perspectives on the Impacts of Unpredictability for Patient Sensemaking: Implications for Intervention Design. J Patient Exp 2022; 9:23743735221089460. [PMID: 35372678 PMCID: PMC8972927 DOI: 10.1177/23743735221089460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients facing situations with significant unpredictability are met with challenges to expectation formation and preparation. One such context with unpredictable clinical outcomes is bone marrow transplant (BMT) for patients with hematologic malignancies. To understand the experience of unpredictability and opportunities for intervention, semi-structured interviews with patients who had received BMT (n = 7) and transplant providers (n = 8) were conducted. Thematic analysis revealed conflict between the necessity of expectation formation and the unpredictability of transplant. Providers described a tension between adequately informing patients of potential risks of transplant and presenting so much information as to create unnecessary anxiety in patients. Patients described issues with outcome unpredictability (not knowing what particular complications they would experience) and temporal unpredictability (not knowing when complications would appear). Patients struggled to make sense of unexpected complications and resulting limitations post-BMT and plan for the future amid the nonlinear recovery timeline. The challenges of unpredictability warrant a support solution that enables patient sensemaking in their evolving illness journey and facilitates adaptation to new circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Fadem
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Lisa Mikesell
- Rutgers School of Communication and Information, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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36
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Early Palliative Care in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030478. [PMID: 35158746 PMCID: PMC8833517 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Several novel targeted therapies seem to improve the outcome of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Nonetheless, the 5-year survival rate remains below 40%, and the trajectory of the disease remains physically and emotionally challenging, with little time to make relevant decisions. For patients with advanced solid tumors, the integration of early palliative care (EPC) with standard oncologic care a few weeks after diagnosis has demonstrated several benefits. However, this model is underutilized in patients with hematologic malignancies. Methods: In this article, we analyze the palliative care (PC) needs of AML patients, examine the operational aspects of an integrated model, and review the evidence in favor of EPC integration in the AML course. Results: AML patients have a high burden of physical and psychological symptoms and high use of avoidant coping strategies. Emerging studies, including a phase III randomized controlled trial, have reported that EPC is feasible for inpatients and outpatients, improves quality of life (QoL), promotes adaptive coping, reduces psychological symptoms, and enhances the quality of end-of-life care. Conclusions: EPC should become the new standard of care for AML patients. However, this raises issues about the urgent development of adequate programs of education to increase timely access to PC.
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37
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Dhakal P, Wichman CS, Pozehl B, Weaver M, Fisher AL, Vose J, Bociek RG, Bhatt VR. Preferences of adults with cancer for systemic cancer treatment: do preferences differ based on age? Future Oncol 2022; 18:311-321. [PMID: 34761681 PMCID: PMC8819600 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: We used the Therapy Preference Scale, a 30-item questionnaire, to determine cancer treatment preferences of adults with cancer. Methods: We used Wilcoxon's rank sum test and Fisher's exact test to compare the preferences of younger (<60 years) versus older adults (≥60 years). Results: While 56% of patients would accept treatment offering increased life expectancy at an expense of short-term side effects, 75% preferred maintenance of cognition, functional ability and quality of life to quantity of days. Oral instead of intravenous treatment (p = 0.003), shorter hospital stay (p = 0.03), preservation of cognitive function (p = 0.01) and avoidance of pain (p = 0.02) were more important to older patients compared with younger patients. Conclusion: Many patients prioritized maintenance of cognition, functional ability and quality of life; older patients valued oral treatment, shorter hospital stay, preservation of cognitive function and avoidance of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prajwal Dhakal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood & Marrow Transplantation, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Christopher S Wichman
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198,USA
| | - Bunny Pozehl
- College of Nursing - Omaha Division, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Meaghann Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Children's Hospital & Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68114, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Alfred L Fisher
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology and Palliative Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Julie Vose
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology–Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - R Gregory Bociek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology–Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Vijaya R Bhatt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology–Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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38
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Morelli E, Mulas O, Caocci G. Patient-Physician Communication in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2021; 17:264-270. [PMID: 35444710 PMCID: PMC8985469 DOI: 10.2174/1745017902117010264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction An effective communication is an integral part of the patient-physician relationship. Lack of a healthy patient-physician relationship leads to a lower level of patient satisfaction, scarce understanding of interventions and poor adherence to treatment regimes. Patients need to be involved in the therapeutic process and the assessment of risks and perspectives of the illness in order to better evaluate their options. Physicians, in turn, must convey and communicate information clearly in order to avoid misunderstandings and consequently poor medical care. The patient-physician relationship in cancer care is extremely delicate due to the complexity of the disease. In cancer diagnosis, the physician must adopt a communicative approach that considers the psychosocial factors, needs and patient's preferences for information,which in turn all contribute to affect clinical outcomes. Search Strategy and Methods This review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. We included studies on the importance of physician-patient communication in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome care. We searched PubMed, Web of Sciences, Scopus, Google scholar for studies published from December 1 st , 2020 up to March 1 st , 2021. Using MeSH headings, we search for the terms "Physician and patient communication AND Acute Myeloid leukemia" or "Myelodysplastic syndrome" or "Doctor" or "Clinician", as well as variations thereof . Purpose of the Review This review examines the progress in communication research between patient and physician and focuses on the impact of communication styles on patient-physician relationshipin hematologic cancers, including Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Morelli
- Hematology and CTMO, Businco Hospital, ARNAS “G. Brotzu”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Olga Mulas
- Hematology and CTMO, Businco Hospital, ARNAS “G. Brotzu”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Caocci
- Hematology and CTMO, Businco Hospital, ARNAS “G. Brotzu”, Cagliari, Italy
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39
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Nelson AM, Amonoo HL, Kavanaugh AR, Webb JA, Jackson VA, Rice J, Lavoie MW, Fathi AT, Brunner AM, Greer JA, Temel JS, El-Jawahri A, LeBlanc TW. Palliative care and coping in patients with acute myeloid leukemia: Mediation analysis of data from a randomized clinical trial. Cancer 2021; 127:4702-4710. [PMID: 34460937 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown previously that integrated palliative care for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) during intensive chemotherapy leads to improvements in quality of life (QOL) and mood. Coping has been shown to mediate palliative care interventions in advanced cancer; the mechanisms by which improvements occur among patients with AML remain unexplained. METHODS The authors conducted a secondary analysis of data from a multisite randomized trial of integrated palliative and oncology care (IPC; n = 86) versus usual care (n = 74) for hospitalized patients with AML undergoing intensive chemotherapy. IPC patients met with palliative care at least twice weekly during their initial and subsequent hospitalizations. Patients completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Leukemia, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory to assess QOL, mood, and coping at the baseline and at weeks 2, 4, 12, and 24. Linear regression models were used to assess the effect of IPC on coping. Causal mediation regression models were used to examine whether changes in coping mediated intervention effects on patient-reported outcomes at week 2. RESULTS One hundred sixty eligible patients (68.1%) were enrolled. Those randomized to IPC reported improvements in approach-oriented coping (P < .01) and reductions in avoidant coping (P < .05). These changes in coping mediated the intervention effects on QOL (95% CI, 2.14-13.63), depression (95% CI, -2.05 to -0.27), and anxiety symptoms (95% CI, -1.25 to -0.04). Changes in approach-oriented and avoidant coping accounted for 78% of the total palliative care intervention effect on QOL, for 66% of the effect on depression, and for 35% of the effect on anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Palliative care integrated during intensive chemotherapy for patients with AML facilitates coping strategy use. Improvement in coping skills accounts for a substantial proportion of the effect from a palliative care intervention on patient-reported outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Nelson
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hermioni L Amonoo
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alison R Kavanaugh
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jason A Webb
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Vicki A Jackson
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Julia Rice
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Amir T Fathi
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew M Brunner
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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40
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Abstract
Patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) face sudden-onset life-threatening disease that requires intensive treatments. Although their early disease trajectory is characterized by significant, toxic side effects, there is limited data describing coping strategies among patients with AML and how these inform patient-reported outcomes. We used cross-sectional secondary data analyses to describe coping in 160 patients with newly diagnosed high-risk AML. We used the Brief COPE, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Leukemia at time of AML diagnosis to measure coping strategies, psychological distress and quality of life (QOL), respectively. We used the median split method for distribution of coping domains, and multivariate regression models to assess the relationship between coping and patient-reported outcomes. Participants (median age=64.4 years) were mostly non-Hispanic White (86.3%), male (60.0%), and married (73.8%). Most (51.9%) had high utilization of approach-oriented coping strategies whereas 38.8% had high utilization of avoidant coping strategies. At time of diagnosis, use of approach-oriented coping was associated with less psychological distress (anxiety: β=-0.262, p=0.002; depression symptoms β=-0.311, p<0.001; PTSD symptoms: β=-0.596, p=0.006) and better QOL (β=1.491, p=0.003). Use of avoidant coping was associated with more psychological distress (anxiety: β=0.884, p<0.001; depression symptoms: β=0.697, p<0.001; PTSD symptoms: β=3.048, p<0.001) and worse QOL (β=-5.696, p<0.001). Patients with high-risk AML utilize various approach-oriented and avoidant coping strategies at time of diagnosis. Use of approach-oriented coping strategies was associated with less psychological distress and better QOL, suggesting a possible target for supportive oncology interventions.
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41
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Singh A, Locke SC, Wolf SP, Albrecht TA, Troy JD, Derry H, El-Jawahri A, LeBlanc TW. The relationship between emotional well-being and understanding of prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:897-906. [PMID: 34401981 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06499-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) face considerable distress and often have a poor prognosis. However, little is known about these patients' perceptions of prognosis and how this relates to emotional well-being (EWB). METHODS We conducted a prospective, observational study of 50 adult patients with AML initiating chemotherapy, and surveyed them longitudinally for 6 months about their prognosis, treatment goals, quality of life, and EWB (by FACT-G). We derived a prognostic estimate for each patient based on data from published trials summarized in National Comprehensive Care Network Guidelines. We used descriptive statistics and longitudinal modeling to test the hypothesis that more accurate prognostic awareness is associated with worse EWB. RESULTS Most patients (n = 43; 86%) had an objectively poor prognosis attributable to relapsed disease, complex karyotype, or FLT3 mutation. Yet, 74% of patients reported expecting a 50% or greater chance of cure. Patients with a poor prognosis more often had discordant prognostic estimates, compared to those with favorable risk AML (OR = 7.25, 95% CI 1.21, 43.37). Patient-reported prognostic estimates did not vary significantly over time. At baseline, patients who better understood their prognosis had worse EWB and overall quality-of-life scores (EWB 12 vs. 19.5; p = 0.01; FACT-G 65 vs. 75.5; p = 0.01). CONCLUSION Patients with AML overestimate their prognosis, and awareness of a poor prognosis is associated with worse emotional well-being. Efforts are needed to improve patients' understanding of their prognosis, and to provide more psychosocial support and attention to well-being as part of high-quality leukemia care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmol Singh
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | | | | | - Tara A Albrecht
- Duke University School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Jesse D Troy
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Heather Derry
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. .,Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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Liptrott SJ, Bee P, Lovell K. Providing Telephone-Based Support for Patients With Haematological Malignancies: A Qualitative Investigation of Expert Nurses. Can J Nurs Res 2021; 54:121-133. [PMID: 33934610 DOI: 10.1177/08445621211013231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telephone-based interventions are frequently used to address cancer patient's needs, often delivered by nurses; however, little is known about nurses' opinions of such interventions. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to investigate expert nurses' perceptions of hemato-oncology patient's needs, use of telephone interventions providing support and symptom management and intervention acceptability from a service provider perspective. A qualitative study was undertaken with focus group and individual interview. Inductive and deductive data analysis was performed using Framework Analysis and the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. RESULTS Two themes emerged: (1) perceived needs of haemato-oncology patients across the cancer trajectory - multifactorial influences, dynamic information needs, and continuity of care, (2) acceptability for nurses delivering interventions was determined by identification of need, agreed expectations and organisational support for the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Greater understanding of contextual factors for recipients and individuals delivering healthcare interventions may contribute to identification of potential barriers and facilitators to adoption in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Penny Bee
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Karina Lovell
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Dhawan N, LeBlanc TW. Lean Into the Uncomfortable: Using Trauma-Informed Care to Engage in Shared Decision-Making With Racial Minorities With Hematologic Malignancies. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:4-8. [PMID: 33910380 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211008431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Discussions involving racial health disparities must include pathways for engaging in shared decision-making with racial/ethnic minorities. Research demonstrates glaring racial and ethnic disparities when it comes to hematologic malignancies from the time of diagnosis to treatment and even at the end of life. Unfortunately, decision-making in these circumstances may be streamlined, given the urgency of the disease, prognostic uncertainty, and varying treatment options. Being diagnosed with cancer is undoubtedly a traumatic experience and a patient's race and/or ethnicity add an important dimension to their experience. The tenets of trauma-informed care (TIC) are anchored in recognizing that trauma can manifest in several ways and acknowledging the impact of past trauma on a patient's present and future behaviors. We argue that using a TIC approach may help hematologists create a space for decision-making while minimizing the risk of re-traumatization and perpetuating racial disparities. Using the foundation of TIC, an interprofessional team can begin addressing manifestations of trauma and hopefully mitigate racial and ethnic disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Dhawan
- 22916Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
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44
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Amonoo HL, LeBlanc TW, Kavanaugh AR, Webb JA, Traeger LN, Jagielo AD, Vaughn DM, Elyze M, Longley RM, Fathi AT, Hobbs GS, Brunner AM, O'Connor NR, Luger SM, Gustin JL, Bhatnagar B, Horick NK, El-Jawahri A. Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Cancer 2021; 127:2500-2506. [PMID: 33764526 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving intensive chemotherapy face a life-threatening illness, isolating hospitalization, and substantial physical and psychological symptoms. However, data are limited regarding risk factors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in this population. METHODS The authors conducted a secondary analysis of data from 160 patients with high-risk AML who were enrolled in a supportive care trial. The PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version was used to assess PTSD symptoms at 1 month after AML diagnosis. The Brief COPE and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Leukemia were to assess coping and quality of life (QOL), respectively. In addition, multivariate regression models were constructed to assess the relation between PTSD symptoms and baseline sociodemographic factors, coping, and QOL. RESULTS Twenty-eight percent of patients reported PTSD symptoms, describing high rates of intrusion, avoidance, and hypervigiliance. Baseline sociodemographic factors significantly associated with PTSD symptoms were age (B = -0.26; P = .002), race (B = -8.78; P = .004), and postgraduate education (B = -6.30; P = .029). Higher baseline QOL (B = -0.37; P ≤ .001) and less decline in QOL during hospitalization (B = -0.05; P = .224) were associated with fewer PTSD symptoms. Approach-oriented coping (B = -0.92; P = .001) was associated with fewer PTSD symptoms, whereas avoidant coping (B = 2.42; P ≤ .001) was associated with higher PTSD symptoms. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of patients with AML report clinically significant PTSD symptoms 1 month after initiating intensive chemotherapy. Patients' baseline QOL, coping strategies, and extent of QOL decline during hospitalization emerge as important risk factors for PTSD, underscoring the need for supportive oncology interventions to reduce the risk of PTSD in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermioni L Amonoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas W LeBlanc
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Alison R Kavanaugh
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Palliative Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jason A Webb
- Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Lara N Traeger
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Annemarie D Jagielo
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dagny M Vaughn
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Madeleine Elyze
- Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Regina M Longley
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amir T Fathi
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gabriela S Hobbs
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew M Brunner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nina R O'Connor
- Department of Palliative Care, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Selina M Luger
- Department of Hematology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jillian L Gustin
- Division of Palliative Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | - Nora K Horick
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Hematology Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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45
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Richardson DR, Oakes AH, Crossnohere NL, Rathsmill G, Reinhart C, O'Donoghue B, Bridges JFP. Prioritizing the worries of AML patients: Quantifying patient experience using best-worst scaling. Psychooncology 2021; 30:1104-1111. [PMID: 33544421 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Although patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) experience significant toxicities and poor outcomes, few studies have quantified patients' experience. METHODS A community-centered approach was used to develop an AML-specific best-worst scaling (BWS) instrument involving 13 items in four domains (psychological, physical, decision-making, and treatment delivery) to quantify patient worry. A survey of patients and caregivers was conducted using the instrument. Data were analyzed using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS The survey was completed by 832 patients and 237 caregivers. Patients were predominantly white (88%), married/partnered (72%), and in remission (95%). The median age was 55 years (range: 19-87). Median time since diagnosis was 8 years (range: 1-40). Patients worried most about "the possibility of dying from AML" (BWS score = 15.5, confidence interval [CI] [14.2-16.7]) and "long-term side effects of treatments" (14.0, CI [12.9-15.2]). Patients found these items more than twice as worrisome as all items within the domains of care delivery and decision-making. Patients were least worried about "communicating openly with doctors" (2.50, CI [1.97-3.04]) and "having access to the best medical care" (3.90, CI [3.28-4.61]). Caregiver reports were highly correlated to patients' (Spearman's ρ = 0.89) though noted significantly more worry about the possibility of dying and spending time in the hospital. CONCLUSION This large convenience sample demonstrates that AML patients have two principal worries: dying from their disease and suffering long-term side effects from treatment. To better foster patient-centered care, therapeutic decision-making and drug development should reflect the importance of both potential outcomes. Further work should explore interventions to address these worries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Richardson
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Allison H Oakes
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Penn Medicine Nudge Unit, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Norah L Crossnohere
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Health Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gary Rathsmill
- Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, White Plains, New York, USA
| | - Crystal Reinhart
- Center for Prevention Research and Development, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | | | - John F P Bridges
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Health Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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46
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Crawford R, Sully K, Conroy R, Johnson C, Doward L, Bell T, Welch V, Peloquin F, Gater A. Patient-Centered Insights on Treatment Decision Making and Living with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Other Hematologic Cancers. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 13:83-102. [PMID: 31456136 PMCID: PMC6957575 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-019-00384-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Expectations relating to treatment and survival, and factors influencing treatment decisions are not well understood in adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia. This study analyzed combined findings from a targeted literature review with patient-reported information shared on YouTube to further understand patient perspectives in hematologic cancers and, in particular, acute myeloid leukemia. The targeted literature review included articles concerning patient (aged ≥ 18 years) experiences or perspectives in acute myeloid leukemia or other hematologic cancers. YouTube video selection criteria included patients (aged ≥ 60 years) with self-reported acute myeloid leukemia. In total, 26 articles (13 acute myeloid leukemia-specific and 14 other hematologic cancers, with one relevant to both populations) and 28 videos pertaining to ten unique patients/caregivers were identified. Key concepts reported by patients included the perceived value of survival for achieving personal and/or life milestones, the emotional/psychological distress of their diagnosis, and the uncertainties about life expectancy/prognosis. Effective therapies that could potentially delay progression and extend life were of great importance to patients; however, these were considered in terms of quality-of-life impact and disruption to daily life. Many patients expressed concerns regarding the lack of treatment options, the possibility of side effects, and how their diagnosis and treatment would affect relationships, daily lives, and ability to complete certain tasks. Both data sources yielded valuable and rich information on the patient experience and perceptions of hematologic cancers, in particular for acute myeloid leukemia, and its treatments. Further understanding of these insights could aid discussions between clinicians, patients, and their caregivers regarding treatment decisions, highlight outcomes of importance to patients in clinical studies, and ultimately, inform patient-focused drug development and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Sully
- Adelphi Values Ltd, Macclesfield, Cheshire UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Adam Gater
- Adelphi Values Ltd, Macclesfield, Cheshire UK
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47
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Bhatt VR, Dhakal P, Wichman CS, Pozehl B. Development and validation of the Therapy Preference Scale to understand patients´ systemic cancer treatment preferences. Future Oncol 2021; 17:37-44. [PMID: 33463372 PMCID: PMC7923257 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We incorporated questions related to safety, effectiveness and other characteristics of systemic cancer treatment into a self-report questionnaire - the Therapy Preference Scale - that captures patients´ preferences. The authors asked 20 experts to assess content validity and an additional 20 experts, patients and community members to examine face validity and guide revisions. Key revisions included shortening the length, clarifying constructs and providing details to explain the context and trade-offs necessary to balance the risks and benefits of cancer treatment. The content validity index for the final questionnaire was 1.0, indicating that all questions were relevant. Reviewers expressed that the questionnaire would serve an important purpose. Experts, patients and community members guided revisions of the questionnaire and documented its value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaya Raj Bhatt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Prajwal Dhakal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Christopher S Wichman
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Bunny Pozehl
- College of Nursing Omaha Division, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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48
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Walker AR. How to approach shared decision making when determining consolidation, maintenance therapy, and transplantation in acute myeloid leukemia. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2020; 2020:51-56. [PMID: 33275685 PMCID: PMC7727520 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2020000088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Until recently, treatment options for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) were limited to cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents that possessed little specificity for the cytogenetic and molecular mutations known to risk stratify patients with this disease. With the approval of multiple new therapies, not only have the agents that we treat patients with changed, but the way we talk about these options, decide on, and manage therapy has also been transformed. Given these complexities, it is important that we help patients make an informed decision by weighing the risk of relapse with patient wishes and desired quality of life. Shared decision making (SDM) is an approach to medical decision making for those situations in which most clinicians would agree that there is more than 1 correct choice for a patient. Here we review the principles of SDM and provide an overview of the 3-talk model and how it may be incorporated into the care of patients with AML.
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49
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Decisional involvement and information preferences of patients with hematologic malignancies. Blood Adv 2020; 4:5492-5500. [PMID: 33166406 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding decisional involvement and information preferences in patients with hematologic malignancies may help to optimize physician-patient communication about treatment decisions and align the decision-making processes with patients' preferences. We described and examined factors associated with preferences of patients with hematologic malignancies for decisional involvement, information sources, and presentation of information. In a multicenter observational study, we recruited 216 patients with hematologic malignancies of any stage from September 2003 to June 2007. Patients were asked about their decisional involvement preferences (Control Preferences Scale), information sources (including most useful source of information), and preferences for their oncologists' presentation of treatment success information. We used multivariate logistic regressions to identify factors associated with decisional involvement preferences and usefulness of information sources (physicians vs nonphysicians). Patient-directed, shared, and physician-directed approaches were preferred in 34%, 38%, and 28% of patients, respectively. Physicians and computer/Internet were the most common information sources; 42% perceived physicians as the most useful source. On multivariate analysis, patients with less than a college education (vs postgraduate education) were less likely to perceive their physician as the most useful source (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.46; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.21-1.00), whereas patients with acute leukemia (vs other blood cancers) were more likely to perceive their physician as the most useful source (AOR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.07-5.80). In terms of communicating treatment success rates, 70% preferred ≥1 method(s), and 88% preferred presentation in percentages. Our study suggests that decisional involvement and information preferences vary and should be assessed explicitly as part of each decision-making encounter.
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50
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A novel decision aid for acute myeloid leukemia: a feasibility and preliminary efficacy trial. Support Care Cancer 2020; 29:3563-3569. [PMID: 33159220 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05864-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by a poor prognosis but also a paradoxical possibility of cure. This renders decision-making complex and imminent. Unfortunately, many patients with AML misestimate their prognosis and treatment risk. While decision aids can improve illness understanding and reduce decisional conflict, there are no validated decision aids for AML. We developed and tested a novel AML decision aid (NCT03442452). METHODS Patients (n = 20) were recruited at Duke University from May 2018 to February 2019. Participants completed assessments of AML knowledge and decisional conflict, before and after using the electronic decision aid. The primary endpoint was feasibility (endpoint met if > 80% of study participants completed all study components). Secondary analyses of efficacy were conducted using paired t tests for dependent pre-/post-samples. RESULTS The primary endpoint of feasibility was met (100% of participants completed all study components). Secondary analyses showed improved knowledge and reduced decisional conflict after using the decision aid. Knowledge scores improved from a mean of 11.8 (out of 18) correct items at baseline to 15.1 correct items after using the decision aid (mean difference 3.35; p < 0.0001). Decisional conflict scores reduced significantly from baseline to post-test as well (mean difference - 6.5; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that our AML decision aid is a useful tool to improve the patient experience and promote shared decision-making in AML. A randomized efficacy trial is planned.
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