2023 World Conference on Lung Cancer (Posters)-EP13.03. Developing Strategies for Delivery of Patient-Centered Care for Small Cell Lung Cancer

Pdf Summary

This document discusses strategies for delivering patient-centered care for small cell lung cancer (SCLC). SCLC is an aggressive cancer with a short life expectancy, and there is a lack of research on the specific needs of SCLC patients and their caregivers. The goal of this study was to understand how to better reach, engage, connect, support, and educate the SCLC community.<br /><br />The researchers conducted interviews with nurses, navigators, and social workers to gather information on patient and caregiver challenges, healthcare resources utilized, and end-of-life conversations. The interviews were transcribed and coded using a hierarchical coding system, and the themes were organized into a conceptual framework.<br /><br />The study found that patient and caregiver engagement is crucial in providing quality care. Education strategies, such as explaining the diagnosis and treatment process, are important for patients to understand their condition. It is also important to identify the specific needs of SCLC patients and provide interventions accordingly. A multidisciplinary team that includes expertise in all aspects of quality of life affected by SCLC is essential.<br /><br />The study also identified institutional factors that influence the quality of life for SCLC patients. For example, access to transportation is a significant challenge, particularly for patients who live far from treatment centers. Lung cancer stigma was also mentioned as a barrier to finding resources specifically for SCLC.<br /><br />The impact on the quality of life for SCLC patients was found to be influenced by physical and cognitive effects of treatments, financial toxicity, psychosocial concerns, and the overall support system available to patients and caregivers. Emotional and psychological support was highlighted as essential, as caregivers often experience high levels of stress and anxiety.<br /><br />In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of assessing the psychosocial and medical vulnerabilities of SCLC patients and their caregivers, as well as the need for a multidisciplinary team to address all aspects of care. Attention to practical daily living concerns should be complemented by emotional support, and the findings have implications for staffing, funding, and organization of SCLC service delivery.

Asset Subtitle

Jennifer King

Meta Tag

Speaker Jennifer King

Topic SCLC & Neuroendocrine Tumors: First Line Therapy

Keywords

patient-centered care

small cell lung cancer

SCLC

engagement

education strategies

multidisciplinary team

quality of life

institutional factors

treatment impact

emotional support