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Davis H, Tseng S, Chua W. Oncology Intensive Care Units: Distinguishing Features and Clinical Considerations. J Intensive Care Med 2024:8850666241268857. [PMID: 39175394 DOI: 10.1177/08850666241268857] [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: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The rapidly advancing field of cancer therapeutics has led to increased longevity among cancer patients as well as increasing complexity of cancer-related illness and associated comorbid conditions. As a result, institutions and organizations that specialize in the in-patient care of cancer patients have similarly evolved to meet the constantly changing needs of this unique patient population. Within these institutions, the intensive care units that specialize in the care of critically ill cancer patients represent an especially unique clinical resource. This article explores some of the defining and distinguishing characteristics associated with oncology ICUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Davis
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, USA
| | - Steve Tseng
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, USA
| | - Weijia Chua
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, USA
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Rodriguez GM, Parikh DA, Kapphahn K, Gupta DM, Fan AC, Shah S, Srinivas S, Teuteberg W, Seevaratnam B, Asuncion K, Chien J, Moore K, Ruiz SM, Patel MI. Coaches Activating, Reaching, and Engaging Patients to Engage in Advance Care Planning: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Oncol 2024; 10:949-953. [PMID: 38780960 PMCID: PMC11117149 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2024.1242] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Importance Advance care planning (ACP) remains low among patients with advanced cancer. Multilevel interventions compared with clinician-level interventions may be more effective in improving ACP. Objective To evaluate whether a multilevel intervention could improve clinician-documented ACP compared with a clinician-level intervention alone. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized clinical trial, performed from September 12, 2019, through May 12, 2021, included adults with advanced genitourinary cancers at an academic, tertiary hospital. Data analysis was performed by intention to treat from May 1 to August 10, 2023. Intervention Participants were randomized 1:1 to a 6-month patient-level lay health worker structured ACP education along with a clinician-level intervention composed of 3-hour ACP training and integration of a structured electronic health record documentation template (intervention group) or to the clinician-level intervention alone (control group). Main Outcome and Measures The primary outcome was ACP documentation in the electronic health record by the oncology clinician within 12 months after randomization. Secondary, exploratory outcomes included shared decision-making, palliative care use, hospice use, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations within 12 months after randomization. Results Among 402 participants enrolled in the study, median age was 71 years (range, 21-102 years); 361 (89.8%) identified as male. More intervention group participants had oncology clinician-documented ACP than control group participants (82 [37.8%] vs 40 [21.6%]; odds ratio [OR], 2.29; 95% CI, 1.44-3.64). At 12-month follow-up, more intervention than control group participants had palliative care (72 [33.2%] vs 25 [13.5%]; OR, 3.18; 95% CI, 1.91-5.28) and hospice use (49 [22.6%] vs 19 [10.3%]; OR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.44-4.51). There were no differences in the proportion of participants between groups with an emergency department visit (65 [30.0%] vs 61 [33.0%]; OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.57-1.33) or hospitalization (89 [41.0%] vs 85 [46.0%]; OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.55-1.22). Intervention group participants had fewer hospitalizations than control group participants (mean [SD] number of hospitalizations per year, 0.87 [1.60] vs 1.04 [1.77]) and a lower risk of hospitalization (incidence rate ratio, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.65-0.98). Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, a multilevel intervention improved oncology clinician-documented ACP compared with a clinician-level intervention alone for patients with genitourinary cancer. The intervention is one approach to effectively increase ACP among patients with cancer. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03856463.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys M. Rodriguez
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Divya A. Parikh
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
- Medical Services, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
| | - Kris Kapphahn
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Divya M. Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alice C. Fan
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Sumit Shah
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Sandy Srinivas
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | | | | | - Khay Asuncion
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Joanne Chien
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Kaidi Moore
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Shann Mika Ruiz
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Manali I. Patel
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
- Medical Services, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
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Patel MI, Agrawal M, Blayney DW, Bundorf MK, Milstein A. Long-Term Engagement of Patients With Advanced Cancer: Results From the EPAC Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Oncol 2024; 10:905-911. [PMID: 38814627 PMCID: PMC11140577 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2024.1221] [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: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Importance The long-term effect of interventions that assist patients with establishing their end-of-life care preferences among patients with cancer remain relatively unknown. Objective To evaluate the association of a long-term intervention of a lay health worker-led advance care planning intervention among patients with advanced stages of cancer with overall survival and end-of-life health care use and costs. Design, Setting, and Participants This follow-up study of the EPAC randomized clinical trial conducted between August 2013 and February 2015 used data from 9.4 years after the first patient was enrolled with a data cut-off date of February 1, 2023. Overall, 213 participants with stage 3 or 4 or recurrent cancer in the US Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System were included. Interventions A 6-month lay health worker-led education and support intervention to assist patients with establishing their end-of-life preferences vs usual care. Main Outcomes and Measures The outcomes of interest were overall survival, risk of death, restricted mean survival time, and palliative care, hospice, and acute care use in the final 30 days before death for participants who died. Results Among 213 participants randomized and included in the intention-to-treat analysis, the mean (SD) age was 69.3 (9.1) years; 211 (99.1%) were male, 2 (0.90%) were female. There were no demographic or clinical characteristic imbalances at enrollment. As of February 1, 2023, 188 had died. The intervention group had a 25% reduction in risk of death (hazard ratio, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.56-0.98); more palliative care (44 [50.0%] vs 35 [35.0%]) and hospice use (64 [72.7%] vs 53 [53.0%]); and lower emergency department use (20 [22.7%] vs 47 [47.0%]), hospitalizations (17 [19.3%] vs 46 [46.0%]), and median (IQR) total health care costs (median [IQR], $1637 [$383-$9026] vs $18 520 [$4790-$50 729]) than control group participants. Conclusions and Relevance The effects of the lay health worker-led intervention remain durable, with nearly complete follow-up, supporting integration into routine cancer care. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02966509.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
| | | | - Douglas W. Blayney
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Arnold Milstein
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Shilling DM, Manz CR, Strand JJ, Patel MI. Let Us Have the Conversation: Serious Illness Communication in Oncology: Definitions, Barriers, and Successful Approaches. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2024; 44:e431352. [PMID: 38788187 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_431352] [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: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Serious illness communications are crucial elements of care delivery for patients with cancer. High-quality serious illness communications are composed of open, honest discussions between patients, caregivers, and clinicians regarding patient's communication preferences, expected illness trajectory, prognosis, and risks and benefits of any recommended care. High-quality communication ideally starts at the time of a patients' cancer diagnosis, allows space for and response to patient emotions, elicits patients' values and care preferences, and is iterative and longitudinal. When integrated into cancer care, such communication can result in improved patient experiences with their care, care that matches patients' goals, and reduced care intensity at the end of life. Despite national recommendations for routine integration of these communication into cancer care, a minority of patients with cancer receive such communication. In this chapter, we describe elements of high-quality serious illness communication, patient-, clinician-, institution-, and payer-level barriers, and successful strategies that can routinely integrate such communication into cancer care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Shilling
- Division of Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics & Palliative Care, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Christopher R Manz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jacob J Strand
- Division of Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics & Palliative Care, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
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Rodriguez GM, Popat R, Rosas LG, Patel MI. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Intensity of Care at the End of Life for Patients With Lung Cancer: A 13-Year Population-Based Study. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:1646-1654. [PMID: 38478794 PMCID: PMC11095875 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.01045] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Disparities in lung cancer mortality among racial and ethnic minorities are well documented. Less is known as to whether racial and ethnic minority patients with lung cancer experience higher rates of intensity of care at the end of life (EOL) compared with non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients. METHODS We conducted a population-based analysis of patients 18 years and older with a lung cancer diagnosis who died between 2005 and 2018 using the California Cancer Registry linked to patient discharge data abstracts. Our primary outcome was intensity of care in the last 14 days before death (defined as any hospital admission or emergency department [ED] visit, intensive care unit [ICU] admission, intubation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR], hemodialysis, and death in an acute care setting). We used multivariable logistic regression models to evaluate associations between race and ethnicity and intensity of EOL care. RESULTS Among 207,429 patients with lung cancer who died from 2005 to 2018, the median age was 74 years (range, 18-107) and 106,821 (51%) were male, 146,872 (70.8%) were NHW, 1,045 (0.5%) were American Indian, 21,697 (10.5%) were Asian Pacific Islander (API), 15,490 (7.5%) were Black, and 22,325 (10.8%) were Hispanic. Compared with NHW patients, in the last 14 days before death, API, Black, and Hispanic patients had greater odds of a hospital admission, an ICU admission, intubation, CPR, and hemodialysis and greater odds of a hospital or ED death. CONCLUSION Compared with NHW patients, API, Black, and Hispanic patients who died with lung cancer experienced higher intensity of EOL care. Future studies should develop approaches to eliminate such racial and ethnic disparities in care delivery at the EOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys M. Rodriguez
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Rita Popat
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA
| | - Lisa G. Rosas
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA
| | - Manali I. Patel
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
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Rowe JT, Parrillo E, Stanford O, Wenzel J, Johnston FM. Individual and Systemic Barriers Blocking Community Health Workers from Helping the Seriously Ill. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:358-366. [PMID: 38010809 PMCID: PMC10903179 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0516] [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] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative care is a valuable component of health care that improves a patient's quality of life, yet its availability to patients with serious chronic illness remains relatively low. Due to their knowledge of community preferences and ability to improve patient education and access to care, community health workers (CHWs) can increase palliative care usage by patients. Notably, barriers to CHWs helping patients with serious chronic illness remain poorly understood. Objective: Explore the perception of barriers CHWs feel they face when attempting to support the health care of patients with serious chronic illness. Design: Qualitative semistructured individual interviews of CHWs and qualitative descriptive analysis. Setting/Subjects: Twelve CHWs who have worked with patients with serious chronic illness were recruited from the Johns Hopkins Healthcare LLC and the Baltimore Alliance for Careers in Healthcare organizations to virtually participate. Results: CHWs perceived both active and passive barriers that obstructed their efforts to work with seriously ill patients. CHWs shared that these barriers were dependent on themselves, their peers, and their work environments. Prevalent themes included interprofessional conflict, poor health care worker understanding of the CHW's role, and lack of access to quality resource organizations. CHWs noted job-specific training, better means to identify needed resources for patients, and inclusive health care teams as solutions to support their professional goals, while helping patients with serious illness. Conclusions: There are multiple perceived barriers to CHWs helping seriously ill patients. CHWs aiding patients with serious illness can be supported through better job training, better resource management tools, and improved communication between health care team members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian T. Rowe
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elaina Parrillo
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Olivia Stanford
- Community Outreach and Engagement Department, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer Wenzel
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fabian M. Johnston
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Banks LC, Kapphahn K, Das M, Patel MI. Randomized Trial of a Volunteer-Led Symptom Assessment Intervention on Documentation, Patient-Reported Outcomes, and Health Care Use Among Veterans With Lung Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2024; 20:419-428. [PMID: 38207246 DOI: 10.1200/op.23.00557] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Identification and documentation of Veterans' symptoms are crucial for optimal lung cancer care delivery. The objective of this study was to determine whether a volunteer-led proactive telephone symptom assessment intervention could improve comprehensive symptom documentation. METHODS Veterans with lung cancer were randomly assigned to usual care (control group) or usual care with proactive symptom assessment in which a peer volunteer made weekly phone calls to assess patient symptoms under nurse practitioner supervision. The primary outcome was oncologist documentation of symptoms in the electronic health record at all clinical visits within 6 months after enrollment. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction with decision, patient activation, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and symptom burden, measured at baseline, and 3, 6, and 9 months after enrollment, and acute care use within 9 months after enrollment. RESULTS Among 60 Veterans randomly assigned, median (range) age was 70.2 (50-86) years; 57 (95.0%) were male. More intervention participants had oncologist documentation of symptoms than control group participants (24 [77.4%] v seven [24.1%], respectively; odds ratio, 16.46 [95% CI, 4.58 to 59.16]). Intervention group participants had greater improvements over time in HRQOL (expected mean difference, 25.3 [95% CI, 15.00 to 35.70]) and patient activation (expected mean difference, 13.6 [95% CI, 3.79 to 23.39]), lower symptom burden (expected mean difference, -6.39 [95% CI, -15.21 to -2.46]), lower rates of emergency room visits (incidence rate ratio, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.30 to 0.75]), and hospitalizations (incidence rate ratio, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.28 to 0.77]) than control group participants. CONCLUSION This symptom assessment intervention is an effective strategy for Veterans with lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kris Kapphahn
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Millie Das
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
- Division of Oncology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Manali I Patel
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
- Division of Oncology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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Patel MI, Kapphahn K, Wood E, Coker T, Salava D, Riley A, Krajcinovic I. Effect of a Community Health Worker-Led Intervention Among Low-Income and Minoritized Patients With Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Oncol 2024; 42:518-528. [PMID: 37625110 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.00309] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a community health worker (CHW)-led intervention could improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL; primary outcome) more than usual care among low-income and racial and ethnic minoritized populations newly diagnosed with cancer. METHODS This randomized clinical trial was conducted from November 1, 2018, until August 31, 2021, in outpatient cancer clinics in Atlantic City, NJ, and Chicago, IL. Hourly low-wage worker members of an employer union health fund age 18 years or older with newly diagnosed solid tumor and hematologic malignancies were randomly assigned 1:1 to usual care (control group) or usual care augmented with a trained CHW for 12 months (intervention group). The CHW assisted participants with advance care planning (ACP), proactively screened symptoms, and referred participants to community-based resources for identified health-related social needs. Usual care comprised nurse case management and benefits redesign (waived copayments and free transportation for any cancer care received at preferred oncology clinics in each city). The primary outcome was HRQoL. Secondary outcomes included patient activation, satisfaction with decision, ACP documentation, health care use, total health care costs, and overall survival. RESULTS A total of 160 participants were enrolled. Intervention group participants had a greater increase in mean HRQoL scores at 4-month and 12-month follow-up as compared with baseline than control group participants (expected mean difference, 11.25 [95% CI, 7.28 to 15.22]; 11.29 [95% CI, 6.96 to 15.62], respectively). CONCLUSION In this randomized trial, a CHW-led intervention significantly improved HRQoL for low-income and racial and ethnic minoritized patients with cancer more than usual care alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Kris Kapphahn
- Qualitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Emily Wood
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Childrens Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Balasubramanian I, Malhotra C. Why is end-of-life inpatient cost high among cancer patients? A prospective cohort study. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7057. [PMID: 38457240 PMCID: PMC10923043 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7057] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inpatient cost for cancer patients is high during the last year of life, but reasons for this are not understood. We aim to understand the type of hospital admissions and inpatient services associated with an increase in inpatient cost in last year of life. METHODS We used survey and billing records of 439 deceased patients with a solid metastatic cancer, enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Based on cost per day of inpatient admissions, we classified admissions as low- or high-intensity. We decomposed the inpatient cost into cost for different inpatient services. We examined the inpatient cost in the last year of life. We also assessed patient characteristics associated with higher inpatient cost in the next 3 months. RESULTS Towards death, proportion of inpatient cost for "maintenance care" increased while that for intensive care unit (ICU) and surgeries decreased. Low-intensity, compared to high-intensity admissions had a higher proportion of cost for "maintenance care" and a lower proportion for surgeries and ICU. Number of low-intensity admissions increased more steeply towards death than high-intensity admissions. Both admission types contributed equally to the share of inpatient cost. Older patients were less likely to have a high-intensity admission (β:-0.01, CI: -0.02, 0.00). Greater preference for life extension (β: 0.06, CI: 0.01, 0.11) and inaccurate prognostic belief were associated with higher cost of high-intensity admissions (β: 0.32, CI: 0.03, 0.62). CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that inpatient costs in last year of life may be reduced if maintenance care is availed in low-cost settings such as hospice/palliative care alongside steps to reduce non-beneficial surgeries and ICU admissions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chetna Malhotra
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingaporeSingapore
- Program in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke‐NUS Medical SchoolSingaporeSingapore
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Lee EM, Jiménez-Fonseca P, Carmona-Bayonas A, Hernández R, Cruz-Castellanos P, Obispo B, Antoñanzas-Basa M, Palacín-Lois M, Castillo-Trujillo OA, Calderon C. Clinicians' and Advanced Cancer Patients' Estimates of Treatment Efficacy and Toxicity in Oncologic Treatment. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2222. [PMID: 37570462 PMCID: PMC10419268 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11152222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to compare curability expectations between clinicians and patients and examine the influence of sociodemographic and clinical variables on these expectations and satisfaction within the clinician-patient relationship. This prospective study, conducted from February 2020 to May 2023, involved 986 advanced cancer patients. The patients completed questionnaires assessing treatment efficacy and toxicity predictions and the Scale to Assess the Therapeutic Relationship (STAR). Seventy-four percent of advanced cancer patients had an inaccurate perception of treatment curability. Clinicians perceived male patients with lung or digestive cancer without adenocarcinoma at locally advanced stages, with fewer comorbidities and better functional status (ECOG), as having higher curability expectations. Clinicians tended to have more realistic expectations than patients, since they had to consider the presence of treatment's side effects, while patients underestimated the possibility of experiencing these adverse effects. Patients who had more favorable expectations regarding survival and quality of life were found to be more satisfied with the care provided by their oncologists. It is crucial for patients to understand the treatment goals and establish realistic expectations in order to actively participate in decision-making and achieve a better quality of life at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Mi Lee
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paula Jiménez-Fonseca
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación del Principado de Asturias, ISPA, 33007 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Alberto Carmona-Bayonas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital General Universitario Morales Meseguer, University of Murcia, 30008 Murcia, Spain
| | - Raquel Hernández
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, 38320 Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Berta Obispo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, 28031 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Oscar A. Castillo-Trujillo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación del Principado de Asturias, ISPA, 33007 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Caterina Calderon
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
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Hildebrand RD, Chang DT, Ewongwoo AN, Ramchandran KJ, Gensheimer MF. Study of Patient and Physician Attitudes Toward Automated Prognostic Models for Patients With Metastatic Cancer. JCO Clin Cancer Inform 2023; 7:e2300023. [PMID: 37478393 DOI: 10.1200/cci.23.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE For patients with cancer and their doctors, prognosis is important for choosing treatments and supportive care. Oncologists' life expectancy estimates are often inaccurate, and many patients are not aware of their general prognosis. Machine learning (ML) survival models could be useful in the clinic, but there are potential concerns involving accuracy, provider training, and patient involvement. We conducted a qualitative study to learn about patient and oncologist views on potentially using a ML model for patient care. METHODS Patients with metastatic cancer (n = 15) and their family members (n = 5), radiation oncologists (n = 5), and medical oncologists (n = 5) were recruited from a single academic health system. Participants were shown an anonymized report from a validated ML survival model for another patient, which included a predicted survival curve and a list of variables influencing predicted survival. Semistructured interviews were conducted using a script. RESULTS Every physician and patient who completed their interview said that they would want the option for the model to be used in their practice or care. Physicians stated that they would use an AI prognosis model for patient triage and increasing patient understanding, but had concerns about accuracy and explainability. Patients generally said that they would trust model results completely if presented by their physician but wanted to know if the model was being used in their care. Some reacted negatively to being shown a median survival prediction. CONCLUSION Patients and physicians were supportive of use of the model in the clinic, but had various concerns, which should be addressed as predictive models are increasingly deployed in practice.
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Gensheimer MF, Gupta D, Patel MI, Fardeen T, Hildebrand R, Teuteberg W, Seevaratnam B, Asuncion MK, Alves N, Rogers B, Hansen J, DeNofrio J, Shah NH, Parikh D, Neal J, Fan AC, Moore K, Ruiz S, Li C, Khaki AR, Pagtama J, Chien J, Brown T, Tisch AH, Das M, Srinivas S, Roy M, Wakelee H, Myall NJ, Huang J, Shah S, Lee H, Ramchandran K. Use of Machine Learning and Lay Care Coaches to Increase Advance Care Planning Conversations for Patients With Metastatic Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e176-e184. [PMID: 36395436 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with metastatic cancer benefit from advance care planning (ACP) conversations. We aimed to improve ACP using a computer model to select high-risk patients, with shorter predicted survival, for conversations with providers and lay care coaches. Outcomes included ACP documentation frequency and end-of-life quality measures. METHODS In this study of a quality improvement initiative, providers in four medical oncology clinics received Serious Illness Care Program training. Two clinics (thoracic/genitourinary) participated in an intervention, and two (cutaneous/sarcoma) served as controls. ACP conversations were documented in a centralized form in the electronic medical record. In the intervention, providers and care coaches received weekly e-mails highlighting upcoming clinic patients with < 2 year computer-predicted survival and no prior prognosis documentation. Care coaches contacted these patients for an ACP conversation (excluding prognosis). Providers were asked to discuss and document prognosis. RESULTS In the four clinics, 4,968 clinic visits by 1,251 patients met inclusion criteria (metastatic cancer with no prognosis previously documented). In their first visit, 28% of patients were high-risk (< 2 year predicted survival). Preintervention, 3% of both intervention and control clinic patients had ACP documentation during a visit. By intervention end (February 2021), 35% of intervention clinic patients had ACP documentation compared with 3% of control clinic patients. Providers' prognosis documentation rate also increased in intervention clinics after the intervention (2%-27% in intervention clinics, P < .0001; 0%-1% in control clinics). End-of-life care intensity was similar in intervention versus control clinics, but patients with ≥ 1 provider ACP edit met fewer high-intensity care measures (P = .04). CONCLUSION Combining a computer prognosis model with care coaches increased ACP documentation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Divya Gupta
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Manali I Patel
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA.,VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nina Alves
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Brian Rogers
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Jan DeNofrio
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Nigam H Shah
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Divya Parikh
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Joel Neal
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Alice C Fan
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Kaidi Moore
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Shann Ruiz
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Connie Li
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Judy Pagtama
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Joanne Chien
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | | | - Millie Das
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | - Mohana Roy
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | | | | | - Jane Huang
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Sumit Shah
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
| | - Howard Lee
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA
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13
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Patel MI, Murillo A, Agrawal M, Coker T. Health Care Professionals' Perspectives on Implementation, Adoption, and Maintenance of a Community Health Worker-Led Advance Care Planning and Cancer Symptom Screening Intervention: A Qualitative Study. JCO Oncol Pract 2023; 19:e138-e149. [PMID: 36201710 PMCID: PMC10166359 DOI: 10.1200/op.22.00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Advance care planning (ACP) and symptom screening are nationally recommended for all patients with advanced stages of cancer. Yet, routine delivery of such care remains challenging because of multilevel barriers. We hired and trained community health workers (CHWs) to assist with delivery of these services across the United States. The aim of this study was to explore health care professionals' perspectives on barriers and facilitators to these team-based approaches. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with 44 health care professionals in 21 cancer clinics in seven US cities using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework. We recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using the framework analysis approach. RESULTS Participants noted barriers and facilitators to implementation, adoption, and maintenance of CHW-led ACP and symptom management approaches. Participants were initially skeptical; however, they noted a positive shift in their views over time because of personal experiences and effectiveness in their clinics. There was significant variation in adoption with some using a prescriptive top-down approach and others a bottom-up approach. Most agreed that the combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches would be most efficient and effective for promoting team-based care. All participants discussed implementation and provided suggestions for maintenance including organizational support, leadership, and CHW retention. CONCLUSION CHW-led ACP and proactive symptom management interventions are effective and accepted by cancer care professionals at scale. Tailoring on the basis of organization and local contexts is required to ensure successful adoption, implementation, and maintenance of these effective team-based care delivery approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Ariana Murillo
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | | | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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14
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Chen JJ, Roldan CS, Nichipor AN, Balboni TA, Krishnan MS, Revette AC, Chen AB, Hertan LM. Prognostic Understanding and Goals of Palliative Radiotherapy: A Qualitative Study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:567-576. [PMID: 36007684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is a paucity of data describing patients' expectations of goals of palliative radiotherapy (RT) and overall prognosis. OBJECTIVES To explore patients' perceptions of and preferences for communication surrounding goals of palliative RT and cancer prognosis. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study utilizing semi-structured interviews with seventeen patients with either bone or lung metastases receiving their first course of palliative RT at a comprehensive cancer center. All patient interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS Themes of goals of palliative RT centered on either restoration, such as through improving quality of life or minimizing pain, or on a desire to combat cancer by eliminating tumor. While most patients perceived that palliative RT would palliate symptoms but not cure their cancer, some patients believed that the goal of palliative RT was to cure. Themes that emerged surrounding patients' understanding of prognosis and what lies ahead included uncertainty and apprehension about the future, a focus on additional treatment, and confronting mortality. Most patients preferred to receive information about goals of treatment and prognosis from their doctors, including radiation oncologists, rather than other members of the medical team. Patients also expressed a desire for written patient education materials on palliative RT. CONCLUSION Unclear perceptions of goals of treatment and prognosis may motivate some patients to pursue unnecessarily aggressive cancer treatments. Patients desire prognostic information from their doctors, including radiation oncologists, who are important contributors to goals of care discussions and may improve patient understanding and well-being by using restorative rather than combat-oriented language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Jane Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology (J.J.C.), University of San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Claudia S Roldan
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine (C.S.R.), Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alexandra N Nichipor
- Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care (A.N.N.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tracy A Balboni
- Department of Radiation Oncology (T.A.B., M.S.K.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/ Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Monica S Krishnan
- Department of Radiation Oncology (T.A.B., M.S.K.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/ Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anna C Revette
- Survey and Data Management Core (A.C.R.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aileen B Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology (A.B.C.), MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lauren M Hertan
- Department of Radiation Oncology (L.M.H.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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15
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Patel MI, Kapphahn K, Dewland M, Aguilar V, Sanchez B, Sisay E, Murillo A, Smith K, Park DJ. Effect of a Community Health Worker Intervention on Acute Care Use, Advance Care Planning, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Among Adults With Advanced Stages of Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Oncol 2022; 8:1139-1148. [PMID: 35771552 PMCID: PMC9247857 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2022.1997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Importance Deficiencies in advance care planning and symptom management are associated with avoidable acute care use among patients with cancer. Community health worker (CHW)-led approaches may be an approach to reduce acute care use but remain untested in community settings. Objective To determine whether a CHW-led advance care planning and symptom screening intervention can reduce acute care use more than usual care in a community setting. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized clinical trial was conducted among patients with newly diagnosed advanced-stage or recurrent solid and hematologic cancers from August 8, 2017, through November 30, 2021. Data analysis was performed November 30, 2021, through January 1, 2022, by intention to treat. Interventions Participants were randomized 1:1 to usual care (control group) or usual care with the 6-month CHW-led intervention (intervention group). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was acute care use. Secondary outcomes included advance care planning documentation, supportive care use, patient-reported outcomes, survival, and end-of-life care use. Results Among 128 participants, median (range) age was 67 (19-89) years; 61 (47.7%) were female; and 2 (1.6%) were American Indian or Alaska Native, 11 (8.6%) were Asian, 5 (3.9%) were Black, 23 (18.0%) were Hispanic or Latino, 2 (1.6%) were of mixed race, 2 (1.6%) were Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, 86 (67.2%) were White, and 20 (15.6%) did not report race. Intervention participants had 62% lower risk of acute care use than the control (hazard ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.19-0.76) within 6 months. At 12 months, intervention participants had 17% lower odds of acute care use (odds ratio [OR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.69-0.98), 8 times the odds of advance care planning documentation (OR, 7.18; 95% CI, 2.85-18.13), 4 times the odds of palliative care (OR, 4.46; 95% CI, 1.88-10.55), nearly double the odds of hospice (OR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.16-2.88), and nearly double the odds of improved mental and emotional health from enrollment to 6 and 12 months postenrollment (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.03-3.28; and OR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.04-4.65, respectively) than the control. There were no differences in the death (control, 26 [40.6%] vs intervention, 32 [50.0%]). Fewer intervention participants had acute care use (0 vs 6 [23.1%]) in the month before death than the control. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, integration of a CHW-led intervention into cancer care reduced acute care use and is one approach to improve cancer care delivery for patients with advanced stages of disease in community settings. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03154190.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California,Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California,Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Kristopher Kapphahn
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Ariana Murillo
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Kim Smith
- St Jude Crosson Cancer Institute, Center for Hematology and Oncology, Fullerton, California
| | - David J. Park
- St Jude Crosson Cancer Institute, Center for Hematology and Oncology, Fullerton, California
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16
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Patel MI, Banks L, Das M. Improving supportive care for patients with Thoracic Malignancies – A randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 28:100929. [PMID: 35669484 PMCID: PMC9163421 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.100929] [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: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Veterans have higher lung cancer incidence and mortality rates than civilians. Frequently, Veterans with lung cancer suffer from undertreated symptoms due to complex comorbidities, limited social support, and reluctance in discussing symptoms with their oncologists. Evidence supports proactive symptom screening among civilians with cancer; however, no studies to date have evaluated whether Veteran volunteer-led proactive symptom screening is feasible and effective among Veterans with lung cancer. The “Improving Supportive Care for Patients with Thoracic Malignancies” study was co-developed by a pre-established Veteran and Family Advisory Board. Veterans with lung cancer are randomized in a 1:1 allocation to either a 9-month intervention combined with usual oncology care (intervention group) or usual oncology care alone (control group). A Veteran volunteer is assigned to all Veterans in the intervention group and conducts weekly symptom assessments using validated symptom surveys and reviews all symptom scores with an oncology nurse practitioner. The primary outcome is to evaluate whether the intervention improves documentation of symptoms at 6 months post-enrollment among Veterans in the intervention group as compared with the control group. Secondary outcomes include changes in patient-reported outcomes (i.e., symptom burden, patient activation, patient satisfaction with decision, health-related quality of life) and differences in acute care use (i.e., emergency department visits, hospitalizations) from baseline (time of enrollment in the study) to 3-, 6-, and 9-months post enrollment. This study addresses a significant concern expressed by Veterans and their caregivers. Findings can advance our understanding of how to improve symptom-burden among Veterans with lung cancer. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration #NCT03216109.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Corresponding author. Division of Oncology, Stanford University, 1701 Page Mill Drive, Palo Alto, CA, 94306, United States.
| | - Lakedia Banks
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Millie Das
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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Hadid M, Elomri A, El Mekkawy T, Kerbache L, El Omri A, El Omri H, Taha RY, Hamad AA, Al Thani MHJ. Bibliometric analysis of cancer care operations management: current status, developments, and future directions. Health Care Manag Sci 2022; 25:166-185. [PMID: 34981268 DOI: 10.1007/s10729-021-09585-x] [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] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Around the world, cancer care services are facing many operational challenges. Operations management research can provide important solutions to these challenges, from screening and diagnosis to treatment. In recent years, the growth in the number of papers published on cancer care operations management (CCOM) indicates that development has been fast. Within this context, the objective of this research was to understand the evolution of CCOM through a comprehensive study and an up-to-date bibliometric analysis of the literature. To achieve this aim, the Web of Science Core Collection database was used as the source of bibliographic records. The data-mining and quantitative tools in the software Biblioshiny were used to analyze CCOM articles published from 2010 to 2021. First, a historical analysis described CCOM research, the sources, and the subfields. Second, an analysis of keywords highlighted the significant developments in this field. Third, an analysis of research themes identified three main directions for future research in CCOM, which has 11 evolutionary paths. Finally, this paper discussed the gaps in CCOM research and the areas that require further investigation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majed Hadid
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adel Elomri
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
| | | | - Laoucine Kerbache
- College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Halima El Omri
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ruba Y Taha
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anas Ahmad Hamad
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Health care coach support to assist with advance care planning and symptom management -A randomized controlled trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2021; 111:106617. [PMID: 34749008 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2021.106617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Advance care planning and symptom management (supportive cancer care) improves patient experiences and reduces acute care use (hospitalizations and emergency department visits). Strong evidence supports team-based approaches to deliver supportive cancer care. However no studies, to our knowledge, have evaluated the use of lay or community health workers to deliver supportive cancer care as compared to usual cancer care. The "Health Care Coach Support" intervention was developed to improve cancer care. The intervention assigns a lay or community health worker "health coach" to all patients newly diagnosed with advanced stages of cancer or patients with recurrent or progressive disease. The intervention aims to educate and activate patients in advance care planning discussions and symptom management with their clinicians. Patients are randomized in a 1:1 allocation to either the 12-month health coach intervention combined with usual oncology care or usual oncology care alone. The primary outcome is to evaluate whether the intervention reduces acute care use measured at 6-months follow-up more than usual care. Secondary outcomes include the effect on acute care, palliative care, and hospice at 12-months follow-up and one month prior to death for patients who die. Additional secondary outcomes include changes in patient satisfaction with decision and patient satisfaction with care from baseline (time of enrollment) to 3-, 6-, 9- and 12-months post-enrollment. The Health Coach Support study addresses an important gap in supportive cancer care by testing whether a team-based approach using non-professional personnel can ensure delivery of these services. Findings can assist in our understanding of how to improve care for patients with cancer. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration #NCT03154190.
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19
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Patel MI, Khateeb S, Coker T. Association of a Lay Health Worker-Led Intervention on Goals of Care, Quality of Life, and Clinical Trial Participation Among Low-Income and Minority Adults With Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1753-e1762. [PMID: 33999691 PMCID: PMC9810146 DOI: 10.1200/op.21.00100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE New approaches are needed to overcome low supportive care and clinical trial participation among low-income and minority adults with cancer. The objective of this project was to determine whether a lay health worker intervention was associated with improvements in supportive care and trial participation. METHODS We conducted a quality improvement initiative in collaboration with a union organization. We enrolled union members newly diagnosed with cancer into a 6-month lay health worker-led intervention from October 15, 2016, to February 28, 2017. The primary outcome was goals of care. Secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQOL), health care use, and trial participation. All outcomes except HRQOL were compared with a cohort of union members diagnosed within the 6-month preintervention period. RESULTS Sixty-six adults participated in the intervention group, and we identified 72 adults in the control group. Demographic characteristics were similar between groups. The mean age was 56.0 years; 47 (34%) were male, and 22 were White (16%). Within 6 months enrollment, more intervention group participants, as compared with the control, had clinician-documented goals of care (94% v 26%; P < .001) and participated in cancer clinical trials (72% v 22%; P < .001). At 4 months postenrollment, as compared with baseline, intervention participants experienced HRQOL improvements (mean difference, 3.98 points; standard deviation, 2.83; P < .001). Before death, more intervention group participants used palliative care and hospice than the control group. CONCLUSION Lay health worker-led interventions may improve supportive care and clinical trial participation among low-income and minority populations with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA.,Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA.,Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Sana Khateeb
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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20
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Perceptions of healthcare professionals towards palliative care in internal medicine wards: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:101. [PMID: 34193142 PMCID: PMC8247075 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00787-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The extension of palliative care services to meet the needs of patients with chronic non-malignant life-limiting conditions faces misconceptions amongst healthcare professionals. A study of prevailing perceptions of healthcare professionals on this wider palliative care service was thus conducted to identify current obstacles, guide the education of local healthcare professionals and improve service accessibility. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Singapore General Hospital. An anonymised and close-ended online questionnaire was disseminated to 120 physicians and 500 nurses in the Department of Internal Medicine. The online survey tool focused on participant demographics; perceptions of palliative care and its perceived benefits; roles and indications; and attitudes and behaviours towards palliative care referrals. Results Forty four physicians and 156 nurses suggested that care of terminally ill patients with chronic non-malignant life-limiting conditions are compromised by concerns over the role of palliative care in non-cancer care and lapses in their prognostication and communication skills. Respondents also raised concerns about their ability to confront sociocultural issues and introduce palliative care services to patients and their families. Conclusions Gaps in understanding and the ability of nurses and physicians to communicate end of life issues, introduce palliative care services to patients and their families and confront sociocultural issues suggest the need for a longitudinal training program. With similar concerns likely prevalent in other clinical settings within this island nation, a concerted national education program targeting obstacles surrounding effective palliative care should be considered.
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21
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Sedhom R, Nudotor R, Freund KM, Smith TJ, Cooper LA, Owczarzak JT, Johnston FM. Can Community Health Workers Increase Palliative Care Use for African American Patients? A Pilot Study. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e158-e167. [PMID: 33476179 PMCID: PMC8257996 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE African American patients with cancer underutilize advance care planning (ACP) and palliative care (PC). This feasibility study investigated whether community health workers (CHWs) could improve ACP and PC utilization for African American patients with advanced cancer. METHODS African American patients diagnosed with an advanced solid organ cancer (stage IV or stage III disease with a palliative performance score < 60%) were enrolled. Patients completed baseline surveys that assessed symptom burden and distress at baseline and 3 months post-CHW intervention. The CHW intervention consisted of a comprehensive assessment of multiple PC domains and social determinants of health. CHWs provided tailored support and education on the basis of iterative assessment of patient needs. Intervention feasibility was determined by patient and caregiver retention rate above 50% at 3 months. RESULTS Over a 12-month period, 24 patients were screened, of which 21 were deemed eligible. Twelve patients participated in the study. Patient retention was high at 3 months (75%) and 6 months (66%). Following the CHW intervention, symptom assessment as measured by Edmonton Symptom Assessment System improved from 33.8 at baseline to 18.8 (P = .03). Psychological distress improved from 5.5 to 4.7 (P = .36), and depressive symptoms from 42.2 to 33.6 (P = .09), although this was not significant. ACP documentation improved from 25% at baseline to 75% at study completion. Sixty-seven percentage of patients were referred to PC, with 100% of three decedents using hospice. CONCLUSION Utilization of CHWs to address PC domains and social determinants of health is feasible. Although study enrollment was identified as a potential barrier, most recruited patients were retained on study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Sedhom
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD
| | - Richard Nudotor
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Karen M. Freund
- Department of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Thomas J. Smith
- Palliative Care Program, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Lisa A. Cooper
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jill T. Owczarzak
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Fabian M. Johnston
- Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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22
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Cipolletta S, Reggiani M. End-of-life care after the legal introduction of advance directives: A qualitative study involving healthcare professionals and family caregivers of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Palliat Med 2021; 35:209-218. [PMID: 33112196 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320967280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advance care planning and advance directives play a key role in the care of life-threatening illnesses such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. AIM The aim of the present study is to explore how the introduction of these features by law improves the experience of end-of-life care. DESIGN Five focus groups were conducted in Italy 1 year after the new law on advance directives was introduced. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Purposive sampling was used to recruit 24 health professionals and 23 family caregivers of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, for a total of 47 participants. RESULTS The thematic analysis, conducted through the use of ATLAS.ti software, identified four thematic areas: best practices, managing difficulties, care relationships and proposals. The results indicated a lack of organization, collaboration and continuity on the part of healthcare services and professionals, a lack of information on palliative care, advance care planning, and advance directives. End-of-life care is often left to the good will of the individual professional. Difficulties can also derive from ethical dilemmas concerning end-of-life decision-making and from a lack of communication and relationships between health professionals, patients and their families. CONCLUSION The introduction of advance directives by law has not been sufficient to improve end-of-life care. In order to make legal regulation effective, the organization of healthcare services needs to be improved and clearer procedures have to be implemented and shared with patients and families.
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Patel MI, Khateeb S, Coker T. Lay Health Workers' Perspectives on Delivery of Advance Care Planning and Symptom Screening Among Adults With Cancer: A Qualitative Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:1202-1211. [PMID: 33267632 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120977841] [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
INTRODUCTION Advance care planning and symptom screening among patients with cancer require team-based approaches to ensure that these services are equitably and appropriately delivered. In several organizations across the United States, we trained and employed lay health workers (LHWs) to assist with delivering these services for patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to understand LHWs' views on delivering these services. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 22 LHWs in 6 US-based clinical cancer care settings in 4 large cities. We recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using the constant comparative method of qualitative analysis. RESULTS Participants noted the importance of their role in assisting with the delivery of advance care planning (ACP) and symptom screening services. Participants noted the importance of developing relationships with patients to engage openly in ACP and symptom screening discussions. Participants reported that ongoing training provided skills and empowered them to discuss sensitive issues with patients and their caregivers. Participants described challenges in their roles including communication with oncology providers and their own emotional well-being. Participants identified solutions to these challenges including formal opportunities for introduction with oncology clinicians and staff and grievance sessions with LHWs and other team members. DISCUSSION LHWs from several organizations endorsed the importance of their roles in ensuring the delivery of ACP and proactive symptom screening. LHWs noted challenges and specific solutions to improve their effectiveness in delivering these important services to patients after their diagnosis of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, 6429Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, 6429Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sana Khateeb
- Division of Oncology, 6429Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, 12353University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Scholz B, Goncharov L, Emmerich N, Lu VN, Chapman M, Clark SJ, Wilson T, Slade D, Mitchell I. Clinicians' accounts of communication with patients in end-of-life care contexts: A systematic review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2020; 103:1913-1921. [PMID: 32650998 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Communication between patients and end-of-life care providers requires sensitivity given the context and complexity involved. This systematic review uses a narrative approach to synthesise clinicians' understandings of communication in end-of-life care. METHODS A systematic, narrative synthesis approach was adopted given the heterogeneity across the 83 included studies. The review was registered prospectively on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42019125155). Medline was searched for all articles catalogued with the MeSH terms "palliative care," "terminal care" or "end-of-life care," and "communication". Articles were assessed for quality using a modified JQI-QARI tool. RESULTS The findings highlight the centrality and complexity of communication in end-of-life care. The challenges identified by clinicians in relation to such communication include the development of skills necessary, complexity of interpersonal interactions, and ways in which organisational factors impact upon communication. Clinicians are also aware of the need to develop strategies for interdisciplinary teams to improve communication. CONCLUSION Training needs for effective communication in end-of-life contexts are not currently being met. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinicians need more training to address the lack of skills to overcome interactional difficulties. Attention is also needed to address issues in the organisational contexts in which such communication occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Scholz
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Liza Goncharov
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Nathan Emmerich
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Vinh N Lu
- College of Business and Economics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Michael Chapman
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Canberra Health Service, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
| | - Shannon J Clark
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Tracey Wilson
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA
| | - Diana Slade
- School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Imogen Mitchell
- Medical School, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia; Canberra Health Service, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
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Patel M, Andrea N, Jay B, Coker TR. A Community-Partnered, Evidence-Based Approach to Improving Cancer Care Delivery for Low-Income and Minority Patients with Cancer. J Community Health 2020; 44:912-920. [PMID: 30825097 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-019-00632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Community-engaged adaptations of evidence-based interventions are needed to improve cancer care delivery for low-income and minority populations with cancer. The objective of this study was to adapt an intervention to improve end-of-life cancer care delivery using a community-partnered approach. We used a two-step formative research process to adapt the evidence-based lay health workers educate engage and encourage patients to share (LEAPS) cancer care intervention. The first step involved obtaining a series of adaptations through focus groups with 15 patients, 12 caregivers, and 6 leaders and staff of the Unite Here Health (UHH) payer organization, and 12 primary care and oncology care providers. Focus group discussions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the constant comparative method of qualitative analysis. The second step involved finalization of adaptations from a community advisory board comprised of 4 patients, 2 caregivers, 4 oncology providers, 2 lay health workers and 4 UHH healthcare payer staff and executive leaders. Using this community-engaged approach, stakeholders identified critical barriers and solutions to intervention delivery which included: (1) expanding the intervention to ensure patient recruitment; (2) including caregivers; (3) regular communication between UHH staff, primary care and oncology providers; and (4) selecting outcomes that reflect patient-reported quality of life. This systematic and community-partnered approach to adapt an end-of-life cancer care intervention strengthened this existing intervention to promote the needs and preferences of patients, caregivers, providers, and healthcare payer leaders. This approach can be used to address cancer care delivery for low-income and minority patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 1070 Arastradero, Palo Alto, CA, 94305, USA.
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Nevedal Andrea
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Bhattacharya Jay
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tumaini R Coker
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Paladino J, Koritsanszky L, Nisotel L, Neville BA, Miller K, Sanders J, Benjamin E, Fromme E, Block S, Bernacki R. Patient and clinician experience of a serious illness conversation guide in oncology: A descriptive analysis. Cancer Med 2020; 9:4550-4560. [PMID: 32363775 PMCID: PMC7333843 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Oncology guidelines recommend earlier communication with patients about prognosis and goals-of-care in serious illness. However, current evidence leaves gaps in our understanding of the experience of these conversations. This analysis evaluates the patient and clinician experience of a conversation using a Serious Illness Conversation Guide (SICG). DESIGN/SETTING Secondary analysis from a cluster-randomized clinical trial in a northeastern cancer center. PARTICIPANTS Physicians, advanced practice clinicians, and patients with advanced cancer who received the intervention. INTERVENTION SICG, clinician training, systems-changes. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The patient questionnaire assessed perceptions of the conversation and impact on anxiety, hopefulness, peacefulness, sense of control over medical decisions, closeness with their clinician, and behaviors. The clinician questionnaire assessed feasibility, acceptability, and impact on satisfaction in their role. RESULTS We enrolled 54 clinicians and 163 patients; 41 clinicians and 118 patients had a SICG discussion. Most patients described the conversation as worthwhile (79%) and reported no change or improvement in their sense of peacefulness, hopefulness, and anxiety (on average 79%); 56% reported feeling closer with their clinician. Qualitative patient data described positive behavior changes, including enhanced planning for future care and increased focus on personal priorities. Nearly 90% of clinicians agreed that the SICG facilitated timely, effective conversations, and 70% reported increased satisfaction in their role. CONCLUSION Conversations using a SICG were feasible, acceptable, and were associated with positive experiences for both patients and clinicians in oncology in ways that align with national recommendations for serious illness communication. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01786811 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01786811.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Paladino
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luca Koritsanszky
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lauren Nisotel
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bridget A Neville
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kate Miller
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Justin Sanders
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Evan Benjamin
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Erik Fromme
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Susan Block
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachelle Bernacki
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Bennardi M, Diviani N, Gamondi C, Stüssi G, Saletti P, Cinesi I, Rubinelli S. Palliative care utilization in oncology and hemato-oncology: a systematic review of cognitive barriers and facilitators from the perspective of healthcare professionals, adult patients, and their families. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:47. [PMID: 32284064 PMCID: PMC7155286 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00556-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the high potential to improve the quality of life of patients and families, palliative care services face significant obstacles to their use. In countries with high-resource health systems, the nonfinancial and nonstructural obstacles to palliative care services are particularly prominent. These are the cognitive barriers -knowledge and communication barriers- to the use of palliative care. To date no systematic review has given the deserved attention to the cognitive barriers and facilitators to palliative care services utilization. This study aims to synthesize knowledge on cognitive barriers and facilitators to palliative care use in oncology and hemato-oncology from the experiences of health professionals, patients, and their families. METHODS A systematic review was conducted. PubMed, PsycINFO, International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care/Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (IAHPC/CINAHL), and Communication & Mass Media Complete (CMMC) were systematically searched for the main core concepts: palliative care, barriers, facilitators, perspectives, points of view, and related terms and synonyms. After screening of titles, abstracts, and full-texts, 52 studies were included in the qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes were identified: awareness of palliative care, collaboration and communication in palliative care-related settings, attitudes and beliefs towards palliative care, and emotions involved in disease pathways. The results showed that cognitive barriers and facilitators are involved in the educational, social, emotional, and cultural dimensions of palliative care provision and utilization. In particular, these barriers and facilitators exist both at the healthcare professional level (e.g. a barrier is lack of understanding of palliative care applicability, and a facilitator is strategic visibility of the palliative care team in patient floors and hospital-wide events) and at the patient and families level (e.g. a barrier is having misconceptions about palliative care, and a facilitator is patients' openness to their own needs). CONCLUSIONS To optimize palliative care services utilization, awareness of palliative care, and healthcare professionals' communication and emotion management skills should be enhanced. Additionally, a cultural shift, concerning attitudes and beliefs towards palliative care, should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bennardi
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Person-centered Healthcare & Health Communication; University of Lucerne, Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland.
| | - Nicola Diviani
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Person-centered Healthcare & Health Communication; University of Lucerne, Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Gamondi
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Palliative Care, Ospedale San Giovanni, 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Georg Stüssi
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Hematology, Ospedale San Giovanni, 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Piercarlo Saletti
- Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Medical Oncology, Ospedale Regionale Lugano, 6962, Viganello, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Cinesi
- Palliative TI - Associazione Cure Palliative Ticino, Via San Leonardo, 6599, Cadenazzo, Switzerland
| | - Sara Rubinelli
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Person-centered Healthcare & Health Communication; University of Lucerne, Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, Guido A. Zäch Strasse 4, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
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Patel MI, Khateeb S, Coker T. A randomized trial of a multi-level intervention to improve advance care planning and symptom management among low-income and minority employees diagnosed with cancer in outpatient community settings. Contemp Clin Trials 2020; 91:105971. [PMID: 32145441 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2020.105971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Equitable delivery of advance care planning and symptom management among patients is crucial to improving cancer care. Existing interventions to improve the uptake of these services have predominantly occurred in clinic settings and are limited in their effectiveness, particularly among low-income and minority populations. METHODS The "Lay health worker Educates Engages and Activates Patients to Share (LEAPS)" intervention was developed to improve advance care planning and symptom management among low-income and minority hourly-wage workers with cancer, in two community settings. The intervention provides a lay health worker to all patients newly diagnosed with cancer and aims to educate and activate patients to engage in advance care planning and symptom management with their oncology providers. In this randomized clinical trial, we will evaluate the effect on quality of life (primary outcome) using the validated Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General Survey, at enrollment, 4- and 12- months post-enrollment. We will examine between-group differences on our secondary outcomes of patient activation, patient satisfaction with healthcare decision-making, and symptom burden (at enrollment, 4- and 12-months post-enrollment), and total healthcare use and healthcare costs (at 12-months post-enrollment). DISCUSSION Multilevel approaches are urgently needed to improve cancer care delivery among low-income and minority patients diagnosed with cancer in community settings. The current study describes the LEAPS intervention, the study design, and baseline characteristics of the community centers participating in the study. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration #NCT03699748.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America; Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States of America; Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America.
| | - Sana Khateeb
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States of America
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Patel MI, Ramirez D, Agajanian R, Agajanian H, Coker T. Association of a Lay Health Worker Intervention With Symptom Burden, Survival, Health Care Use, and Total Costs Among Medicare Enrollees With Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e201023. [PMID: 32176306 PMCID: PMC7076340 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.1023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Undertreated patient symptoms require approaches that improve symptom burden. OBJECTIVE To determine the association of a lay health worker-led symptom screening and referral intervention with symptom burden, survival, health care use, and total costs among Medicare Advantage enrollees with a new diagnosis of solid or hematologic malignant neoplasms. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This quality improvement study conducted at 9 community oncology practices from November 1, 2016, to October 31, 2018, compared newly diagnosed Medicare Advantage enrollees with solid or hematologic malignant neoplasms with patients diagnosed and treated 1 year prior. Analysis was conducted from August 1, 2019, to January 11, 2020. INTERVENTIONS Usual care augmented by a lay health worker trained to screen symptoms and refer patients to palliative care and behavioral medicine. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was change in symptoms using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire at baseline and 6 and 12 months after enrollment. Secondary outcomes were between-group comparison of survival, 12-month health care use, and costs. RESULTS Among 425 patients in the intervention group and 407 patients in the control group, the mean (SD) age was 78.8 (8.3) years, 345 (41.5%) were female, and 407 (48.9%) were non-Hispanic white. Patients in the intervention group experienced a lower symptom burden as measured by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale score over time compared with patients in the control group (mean [SD] difference, -1.9 [14.2]; 95% CI, -3.77 to -0.19; P = .01 for the intervention group and 2.32 [17.7]; 95% CI, 0.47 to 4.19; P = .02 for the control group). Similar findings were noted in 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire depression scores (mean [SD] difference, -0.63 [3.99]; 95% CI, -1.23 to -0.028; P = .04 for the intervention group and 1.67 [5.49]; 95% CI, 0.95 to 2.37; P = .01 for the control group). Patients in the intervention group compared with patients in the control group had fewer mean (SD) inpatient visits (0.54 [0.77]; 95% CI, 0.47-0.61 vs 0.72 [1.12]; 95% CI, 0.61-0.83; P = .04) and emergency department visits (0.43 [0.76]; 95% CI, 0.36-0.50 vs 0.57 [1.00]; 95% CI, 0.48-0.67; P = .002) per 1000 patients per year and lower total costs (median, $17 869 [interquartile range, $6865-$32 540] vs median, $18 473 [interquartile range, $6415-$37 910]; P = .02). A total of 180 patients in the intervention group and 189 patients in the control group died within 12 months. Among those who died, patients in the intervention group had greater hospice use (125 of 180 [69.4%] vs 79 of 189 [41.8%]; odds ratio, 3.16; 95% CI, 2.13-4.69; P < .001), fewer mean (SD) emergency department and hospital visits (emergency department: 0.10 [0.30]; 95% CI, 0.06-0.14 vs 0.30 [0.46]; 95% CI, 0.24-0.38; P = .001; hospital: 0.27 [0.44]; 95% CI, 0.21-0.34 vs 0.43 [0.82]; 95% CI, 0.32-0.55; P = .02), and lower costs (median, $3602 [interquartile range, $1076-$9436] vs median, $12 726 [interquartile range, $5259-$22 170]; P = .002), but there was no significant difference in inpatient deaths (18 of 180 [10.0%] vs 30 of 189 [15.9%]; P = .14). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This study suggests that a lay health worker-led intervention may be one way to improve burdensome and costly care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research/Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Richy Agajanian
- The Oncology Institute of Hope and Innovation, Downy, California
| | - Hilda Agajanian
- The Oncology Institute of Hope and Innovation, Downy, California
| | - Tumaini Coker
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
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Patel MI, Ramirez D, Agajanian R, Agajanian H, Bhattacharya J, Bundorf KM. Lay Health Worker-Led Cancer Symptom Screening Intervention and the Effect on Patient-Reported Satisfaction, Health Status, Health Care Use, and Total Costs: Results From a Tri-Part Collaboration. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e19-e28. [PMID: 31550213 PMCID: PMC6993555 DOI: 10.1200/jop.19.00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Poor patient experiences and increasing costs from undertreated symptoms require approaches that improve patient-reported outcomes and lower expenditures. We developed and evaluated the effect of a lay health worker (LHW)-led symptom screening intervention on satisfaction, self-reported overall and mental health, health care use, total costs, and survival. METHODS From November 1, 2015, to September 30, 2016, we enrolled in this study all newly diagnosed Medicare Advantage enrollees with stage 3 or 4 solid tumors or hematologic malignancies who were receiving care in a community oncology practice. We evaluated symptom changes from baseline to 12 months for the intervention group. We compared with a control group (a historical cohort of Medicare Advantage enrollees diagnosed with cancer from November 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015) changes in satisfaction and overall and mental health with validated assessments at diagnosis and 5 months postdiagnosis, 12-month health care use, total costs, and survival. RESULTS Among 186 patients in the intervention group and 102 in the control group, most were female and non-Hispanic white or Hispanic, and the mean age was 79 years. There were no survival differences between the groups. Relative to the control group, the intervention group experienced improvements in satisfaction with care (difference-in-difference: 1.35; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.63), overall health (odds ratio, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.49 to 3.32), and mental or emotional health (odds ratio, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.46 to 3.38) over time; fewer hospitalizations (mean ± standard deviation: 0.72 ± 0.96 v 1.02 ± 1.44; P = .03) and emergency department visits per 1,000 members per year (0.61 ± 0.98 v 0.92 ± 1.53; P = .03), and lower median (interquartile range) total health care costs ($21,266 [$8,102-$47,900] v $31,946 [$15,754-$57,369]; P = .02). CONCLUSION An LHW-led symptom screening intervention could be one solution to improve value-based cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
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Hyden K, Gelfman L, Dionne-Odom JN, Smith CB, Coats H. Update in Hospice and Palliative Care. J Palliat Med 2019; 23:165-170. [PMID: 31808708 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this update is to summarize and critique research articles in Hospice and Palliative Care from 2018 that are pertinent and impactful in informing clinical practice. The articles were presented at the 2019 Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA). Eight original research articles published between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018, were identified through a systematic PubMed search using the terms "hospice" and "palliative care," a hand search of 22 leading healthcare journals, and discussion with experts in the field. The final articles were chosen based on each study's methodological quality, its ability to be applied across different care settings, and its ability to impact clinical practice. We summarize the eight articles that were chosen and identify ways the articles can be used to inform clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Hyden
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Laura Gelfman
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.,Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | | | - Cardinale B Smith
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.,Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Heather Coats
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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Patel MI, Sundaram V, Desai M, Periyakoil VS, Kahn JS, Bhattacharya J, Asch SM, Milstein A, Bundorf MK. Effect of a Lay Health Worker Intervention on Goals-of-Care Documentation and on Health Care Use, Costs, and Satisfaction Among Patients With Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Oncol 2019; 4:1359-1366. [PMID: 30054634 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2018.2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Importance Although lay health workers (LHWs) improve cancer screening and treatment adherence, evidence on whether they can enhance other aspects of care is limited. Objective To determine whether an LHW program can increase documentation of patients' care preferences after cancer diagnosis. Design, Setting, and Participants Randomized clinical trial conducted from August 13, 2013, through February 2, 2015, among 213 patients with stage 3 or 4 or recurrent cancer at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System. Data analysis was by intention to treat and performed from January 15 to August 18, 2017. Interventions Six-month program with an LHW trained to assist patients with establishing end-of-life care preferences vs usual care. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was documentation of goals of care. Secondary outcomes were patient satisfaction on the Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems "satisfaction with provider" item (on a scale of 0 [worst] to 10 [best possible]), health care use, and costs. Results Among the 213 participants randomized and included in the intention-to-treat analysis, the mean (SD) age was 69.3 (9.1) years, 211 (99.1%) were male, and 165 (77.5%) were of non-Hispanic white race/ethnicity. Within 6 months of enrollment, patients randomized to the intervention had greater documentation of goals of care than the control group (97 [92.4%] vs 19 [17.5%.]; P < .001) and larger increases in satisfaction with care on the Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems "satisfaction with provider" item (difference-in-difference, 1.53; 95% CI, 0.67-2.41; P < .001). The number of patients who died within 15 months of enrollment did not differ between groups (intervention, 60 of 105 [57.1%] vs control, 60 of 108 [55.6%]; P = .68). In the 30 days before death, patients in the intervention group had greater hospice use (46 [76.7%] vs 29 [48.3%]; P = .002), fewer emergency department visits (mean [SD], 0.05 [0.22] vs 0.60 [0.76]; P < .001), fewer hospitalizations (mean [SD], 0.05 [0.22] vs 0.50 [0.62]; P < .001), and lower costs (median [interquartile range], $1048 [$331-$8522] vs $23 482 [$9708-$55 648]; P < .001) than patients in the control group. Conclusions and Relevance Incorporating an LHW into cancer care increases goals-of-care documentation and patient satisfaction and reduces health care use and costs at the end of life. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02966509.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California.,Clinical Excellence Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Vandana Sundaram
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Manisha Desai
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Vyjeyanthi S Periyakoil
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Extended Care Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
| | - James S Kahn
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California.,Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jay Bhattacharya
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Steven M Asch
- Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California.,Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Center for Innovation to Implementation, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
| | - Arnold Milstein
- Clinical Excellence Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - M Kate Bundorf
- Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Paladino J, Kilpatrick L, O'Connor N, Prabhakar R, Kennedy A, Neal BJ, Kavanagh J, Sanders J, Block S, Fromme E. Training Clinicians in Serious Illness Communication Using a Structured Guide: Evaluation of a Training Program in Three Health Systems. J Palliat Med 2019; 23:337-345. [PMID: 31503520 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Failure to initiate discussions about patients' values and goals in serious illness remains a common problem. Many clinicians are inadequately trained for these discussions. Objective: Evaluate whether a novel train-the-trainer model results in high-quality training that improves clinicians' self-reported competencies in serious illness communication. Design: Multimethod evaluation of an educational program. Setting/Context: In 2016, three faculty at Ariadne Labs (AL) conducted three train-the-trainer courses to equip faculty trainers at each of the three institutions to teach serious illness communication to clinicians. Measures: As collected by a post-training questionnaire, primary evaluation measure is clinicians' self-reported change in skills after the training compared with before. Secondary measures include a course evaluation and qualitative learnings. Results: From 2016 to 2018, AL trained 22 trainers (19/22 were palliative care specialists) in three systems, who trained 297 clinicians (49% physicians; 35% advanced practice clinicians; 12% registered nurses, social workers, or chaplain; 4.0% Other) spanning subspecialties (48%); primary care (28%); palliative care (17%); and other (7.1%). Clinicians reported statistically significant improvement in all skills for two of the systems, with a third system demonstrating improvement in all skills with two reaching statistical significance (p < 0.0001). Participants rated the quality of the training highly (95% mostly/extremely effective) and shared a diverse array of takeaways that reflect positive shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and skills. Conclusion: Serious illness communication training, delivered through a train-the-trainer model, was highly acceptable and resulted in significant self-reported improvements in competencies of clinicians. This may be a viable method for health systems seeking to train their clinical workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Paladino
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laurel Kilpatrick
- Baylor Scott & White Health, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
| | - Nina O'Connor
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Anna Kennedy
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Brandon J Neal
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jane Kavanagh
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Justin Sanders
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Susan Block
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Erik Fromme
- Ariadne Labs, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
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Patel MI, Moore D, Coker TR. End-of-Life Cancer Care Redesign: Patient and Caregiver Experiences in a Lay Health Worker-Led Intervention. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:1081-1088. [PMID: 31046401 DOI: 10.1177/1049909119847967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The Engagement of Patients with Advanced Cancer (EPAC), comprised of a lay health worker (LHW) who assists patients with advance care planning, is an effective intervention for improving patient experiences and reducing acute care use and total health-care costs. The objective of this study was to assess patients' and caregivers' experiences with the intervention. METHODS We invited all patients enrolled in EPAC and their caregivers to complete an 8-item survey at the end of the intervention and a random 35% sample to participate in a qualitative interview to assess their experiences. At 15-month follow-up, we invited all caregivers of patients who died during the study to participate in a qualitative interview. We analyzed survey responses using bivariate methods and recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients were alive at completion of the intervention and all 30 identified caregivers completed the survey. All viewed the intervention as a critical part of cancer care and recommended the intervention for other patients. In qualitative interviews, among 30 patients, all reported improved comfort in discussing their end-of-life care preferences. In qualitative interviews with 24 bereaved caregivers, all viewed the intervention as critical in ensuring that their loved ones' wishes were adhered to at the end of life. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Incorporating an LHW into end-of-life cancer care is an approach supported and viewed as highly effective in improving care by patients and caregivers. The LHW-led EPAC intervention is one solution that can significantly impact patient and caregiver experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- 1 Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,2 Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,3 Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Moore
- 4 Clinical Excellence Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tumaini R Coker
- 5 Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.,6 Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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Patel MI. Questioning Lay Health Worker Influence on Goals-of-Care Documentation and Patient Satisfaction—In Reply. JAMA Oncol 2019; 5:435-436. [DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2018.6875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manali I. Patel
- Division of Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, and Medical Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
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Patel MI, Moore D, Bhattacharya J, Milstein A, Coker TR. Perspectives of Health Care Payer Organizations on Cancer Care Delivery Redesign: A National Study. J Oncol Pract 2018; 15:e46-e55. [PMID: 30444666 DOI: 10.1200/jop.18.00331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite advancements in cancer care, persistent gaps remain in the delivery of high-value end-of-life cancer care. The aim of this study was to examine views of health care payer organization stakeholders on approaches to the redesign of end-of-life cancer care delivery strategies to improve care. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews with 34 key stakeholders (eg, chief medical officers, medical directors) in 12 health plans and 22 medical group organizations across the United States. We recorded, transcribed, and analyzed interviews using the constant comparative method of qualitative analysis. RESULTS Participants endorsed strategies to redesign end-of-life cancer care delivery to improve end-of-life care. Participants supported the use of nonprofessionals to deliver some cancer services through alternative formats (eg, telephone, Internet) and delivery of services in nonclinical settings. Participants reported that using nonprofessional providers to offer some services, such as goals of care discussions and symptom assessments, via telephone in community-based settings or in patients' homes, may be more effective and efficient ways to deliver high-value cancer care services. Participants described challenges to redesign, including coordination with and acceptance by oncology providers and payment models required to financially support clinical changes. Some participants suggested solutions, including providing funding and logistic support to encourage implementation of care delivery innovations and to financially reward practices for delivery of high-value end-of-life cancer care services. CONCLUSION Stakeholders from payer organizations endorsed opportunities to redesign cancer care delivery, and some are willing to provide logistic, design, and financial support to practices interested in improving end-of-life cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali I Patel
- 1 Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA.,2 Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
| | - David Moore
- 1 Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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Hoell JI, Weber HL, Balzer S, Danneberg M, Gagnon G, Trocan L, Borkhardt A, Janßen G, Kuhlen M. Advance care planning and outcome in pediatric palliative home care. Oncotarget 2018; 9:17867-17875. [PMID: 29707152 PMCID: PMC5915160 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric advance care planning seeks to ensure end-of-life care conforming to the patients/their families' preferences. To expand our knowledge of advance care planning and "medical orders for life-sustaining treatment" (MOLST) in pediatric palliative home care, we determined the number of patients with MOLST, compared MOLST between the four "Together for Short Lives" (TfSL) groups and analyzed, whether there was a relationship between the content of the MOLST and the patients' places of death. The study was conducted as a single-center retrospective analysis of all patients of a large specialized pediatric palliative home care team (01/2013-09/2016). MOLST were available in 179/198 children (90.4%). Most parents decided fast on MOLST, 99 (55.3%) at initiation of pediatric palliative home care, 150 (83.4%) within the first 100 days. MOLST were only changed in 7.8%. Eighty/179 (44.7%) patients decided on a Do Not Attempt Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) order, 58 (32.4%) on treatment limitations of some kind and 41 (22.9%) wished for the entire spectrum of life-sustaining measures (Full Code). Most TfSL group 1 families wanted DNACPR and most TfSL group 3/4 parents Full Code. The majority (84.9%) of all DNACPR patients died at home/hospice. Conversely, all Full Code patients died in hospital (80% in an intensive care setting). The circumstances of the childrens' deaths can therefore be predicted considering the content of the MOLST. Regular advance care planning discussions are thus a very important aspect of pediatric palliative home care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica I. Hoell
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Hannah L. Weber
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Balzer
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Mareike Danneberg
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Gabriele Gagnon
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Laura Trocan
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Arndt Borkhardt
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Gisela Janßen
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Michaela Kuhlen
- University of Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Duesseldorf, Germany
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