Improve needs assessment for the newly diagnosed brain tumor patient across their continuum of care

Abstract

The term "cancer survivor" refers to individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer and also includes the people in their lives who are affected by the diagnosis. These individuals manage numerous physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and financial issues throughout the diagnosis, treatment processes as well as, the remaining years of their lives. Poor coordination of care and communication of needs leads to tremendous distress in the patients, their caregivers and the medical team. Lack of validated assessment tools, approved education materials and inefficient, non-standardized processes have led to tremendous waste in our outpatient clinic. The addition of a nurse practitioner survivorship clinic can cut the lead time to treatment and provide for more consistent management of ongoing care needs. Better assessment of care needs can reduce staff rework and patient distress.