bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of palliative care on aggressiveness of end-of-life care in patients with advanced colon cancer.
Authors: Reifer Hildebrand Jessica Ann , Bhan Renuka 
Published: February 2017

168 Background: Recent studies have observed that starting Palliative Care (PC) soon after diagnosis for patients with advanced cancer improves quality of life, end of life (EOL) care, and possibly survival. Consequently, it has been recommended that combined standard oncology care and PC should be considered early in the course of illness for patients with advanced cancer. It has been posited that patients enrolled in early PC receive less aggressive care at the EOL and consequently spend fewer healthcare dollars. We sought to compare the aggressiveness of care received by those enrolled in early PC to those enrolled in late PC. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with stage III or IIII colorectal cancer (CRC) at New Hanover Regional Medical Center between 2009 through 2011 was performed. Patients who were enrolled in PC within 30 days of diagnosis were compared to those enrolled later. Aggressiveness of care given during the last 30 days of life was assessed by: hospitalizations, ED visits, days spent in the ICU, chemotherapy received in the last 14 days of life, and death in the hospital. Results: 186 patients were identified for the study, and 89 met inclusion criteria. We found no significant difference in the aggressiveness of care received by those enrolled in early PC (46.7%) versus later PC (47.8%) (p = 1.00). In fact, almost half of all patients with advanced cancer received some form of aggressive care within the last 30 days of life. While those enrolled in late PC more frequently received chemotherapy, were admitted to the ICU, and died in the hospital, the differences were not statistically significant. Whether or not these differences account for cost savings in the early PC group has yet to be determined. Conclusions: Our study found that patients were just as likely to receive aggressive care at the EOL regardless of whether or not they were enrolled in early PC. This finding was unexpected given the goals and philosophy of PC groups. While early PC has been recommended as a quality care measure, patient and physician factors may limit its effectiveness. For example, patients, while receptive to certain aspects of PC, still desire a cure. Similarly, physicians feel compelled to treat patients aggressively.
Computer simulation and stochastic programming to reduce patient wait times in an outpatient infusion center.
Authors: Heiney Autumn , Potiris Spyros , Denton Brian T. , Cohn Amy , Friese Christopher Ryan 
Published: February 2017

181 Background: As cancer treatment demand outpaces the capacity of outpatient facilities, providers are challenged to provide timely, cost-effective, safe, and patient-centered care. Reduction in patient wait times can help address these challenges through more efficient care delivery. Operations research techniques such as simulation and stochastic programming can inform more efficient patient scheduling. Methods: After 60 hours of observation by two students in one NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center's outpatient infusion center, 9 months of data from the electronic medical record and scheduling systems were used to calculate patient wait times, defined as the difference between scheduled time to begin infusion and actual time and actual administration time. After mapping the patient flow through the center, a computer simulation model was created to examine the effects on patient wait times and total hours of operation under different scheduling paradigms. To create different appointment schedules, both simple heuristic approaches and a more complex stochastic programming model were developed. These methods take into account the variability in infusion times. We generated 35 appointment schedules and evaluated their performance by running 100 replications for each one. Results: The baseline average patient wait time was 130.48 minutes (95% CI 122.38-138.68). Computer simulation results show that schedules generated by the stochastic programming model perform better than baseline and simple heuristics, reaching a 70% reduction in waiting times. Schedules that allocated patients with longer infusion times to earlier appointments resulted in both reduced average patient wait times and total hours of operation. Conclusions: Operations research techniques can improve care delivery in an outpatient infusion center. Based on our results from the computer simulation model, scheduling patients with longer infusion times earlier in the day results in shorter patient waiting times and total length of day of operations. Next steps include guideline development for appointment scheduling staff that attains maximal efficiency.
Implementing a comprehensive physician-communication-skills improvement initiative: The Cleveland Clinic experience.
Authors: Gilligan Timothy D. , Boissy Adrienne , Windover Amy , Crow Jessica 
Published: February 2017

186 Background: Physician communication skills are associated with important outcomes, including medical results, treatment adherence, malpractice claims, patient safety, and physician satisfaction. Recently, patient satisfaction with physicain communication became a factor influencing Medicare reimbursement. In 2010, the Cleveland Clinic began building a physician communication training program to improve doctor communication skills. Methods: Following a literature review and a survey of communication skills programs at a variety of U.S. hospitals, we collaborated with the American Academy of Communication in Healthcare (AACH) to develop a full-day course based on Frankel and Stein’s Four Habits model. The model emphasizes skills related to initiating the encounter, eliciting the patient’s story, expressing empathy, educating the patient and collaboratively developing a plan. The course was designed to be taught by physicians and was highly experiential and skills based, making extensive use of role-play exercises. An AACH consultant trained 15 physicians to teach the course during several 7-day train-the-trainer courses. Results: Between September 2011 and May 2013, over 800 physicians took the course. It became very popular and has been consistently oversubscribed. For the first 450 physicians trained, we reviewed patient satisfaction survey scores for the 6 months before and after they took the course. For all 13 items on the Press Ganey ambulatory patient survey used, scores were higher after taking the course. For 7 of the 13, the difference was statistically significant (p values ranging from .003 to .044). Conclusions: Our experience with communication skills training indicates that such training can be well received by physicians if it is high quality. Key elements of our program that we believe contributed to its success are the following: it was developed by physicians for physicians; it is taught by physicians with substantial clinical practices so that the atmosphere is colleagues teaching colleagues; and it is skills based rather than cognitive in focus so that participants have tangible tools that they can use in their practice.
Identifying benchmarks for ASCO's “Choosing Wisely” measures that address low-value imaging in early-stage prostate and breast cancer.
Authors: Power Steve , Bitting Rhonda Lynn , Marcom P. Kelly , Kamal Arif 
Published: February 2017

194 Background: ASCO has recently selected “Choosing Wisely” measures that identify physician health behaviors of low value in cancer care. Two of these measures address the use of advanced imaging for early stage disease. These measures aim to reduce imaging in patients at low risk for metastatic disease unless there is a clinical indication. To date, no evidence-based benchmarks for meeting these measures have been reported. Methods: We analyzed all patients from January 2010 to June 2012 at the Duke Cancer Institute (DCI), an NCI-designated, comprehensive cancer center. We investigated conformance to two Choosing Wisely measures: avoiding imaging for staging in early stage (ES) prostate cancer (PC) and ES breast cancer (BC). ES was defined by Choosing Wisely as Stage IIb or less for BC and Gleason <7 or PSA <10 ng/mL for PC. Advanced imaging was defined as bone scan, computed tomography (CT) scan, or positron emission tomography (PET) performed at the DCI within 60 days of cancer diagnosis. Descriptive statistics and chi-square were performed. Results: Total 1143 BC and 29 PC were identified. Median age was 58 and 61 years, respectively. 0% (0/29) of PC cases had advanced imaging. Within BC, 20.6% (235/1143) had at least one imaging procedure performed; 16.5% had two or more. Patients with imaging were more likely hormone receptor negative, triple negative, younger (<50), and higher stage (Stage IIb), (all p<0.0001). Of imaging performed in BC, 41% were CT only, 22% were PET or PET/CT, and 36% were bone scans. Ongoing chart abstractions are identifying clinical indications for the ordering of imaging and associated clinical consequences. Conclusions: We have established internal benchmarks for conformance to two Choosing Wisely measures. The lack of advanced imaging for low-risk PC patients demonstrates the feasibility of this measure even in a multi-disciplinary setting. Imaging in <25% low-risk BC patients suggests that these are performed for clinical rather than staging purposes. Further data sharing and comparisons are needed to establish oncology-wide benchmarks.
Measuring cost savings of process improvement.
Authors: Barboza Alexis , Rebello Elizabeth , Albright Heidi Wied , Dang Johnny , Jones Jennifer , Zhang Wei , Feeley Thomas W. 
Published: February 2017

196 Background: The aim of the project was to use anesthesia providers in a cancer center to lead process improvements using time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC), a system of measuring process and capacity costs. Methods: The process improvement objectives were centered on eliminating unnecessary patient care processes and improving patient flow. Teams were tasked with planning, process mapping, improving processes, and measuring costs. Projects were done in four anesthesia sites: ambulatory surgery, bone marrow aspiration, pediatric CT and XRT, and cardiopulmonary areas. Results: Process mapping identified areas for improvement and costs before and after the improvement. The Table highlights four project areas’ average total cost and time savings per patient using TDABC methodology. Conclusions: TDABC is a costing methodology that measures the costs of care utilizing process maps. Anesthesia providers had front-line insight in improving process flow and found the process mapping useful to improve processes and measure the cost savings of the improvement. In each area there was improvement or no adverse effect on patient outcomes. This project demonstrates that TDABC illustrates inefficiencies and provides a method to evaluate the cost savings of process improvements. As cancer care reimbursement evolves, the ability to control costs while providing value-based care is essential. [Table: see text]
Implementation of a high-quality biospecimen program to support molecular medicine.
Authors: Morrill Susanne , Mandich Daniza , Cartun Richard , Salner Andrew L. 
Published: February 2017

200 Background: The successful implementation of a tumor genomics program relies heavily upon the collection of high quality tumor tissue samples. Although there has been an evolution towards utilizing formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue, many research centers continue to rely upon frozen fresh tissue for these types of analyses. A comprehensive effort is required to supply high-volume and high-quality tissue for research. Most community hospitals, even with superb pathology departments, are not well suited to deliver consistent tissue samples without a concerted programmatic effort. As part of the NCI Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP), we undertook the development of such capability at our hospital. In addition, as a member of H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center’s Total Cancer Care program, we received grant funding to help support this comprehensive effort. Our patients and clinicians expressed a strong desire to participate in this type of translational research. This project has been funded in part with federal funds from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, under Contract No. HHSN261200800001E. Methods: We developed a comprehensive staffing model to implement this program, including a program coordinator, consenters, pathology assistant, lab aide, and data manager. We developed superb relationships with surgeons, interventional radiologists, pathologists and staffs to assure appropriate referrals and processes, and implemented quality checks as a standard. We developed relationships with Moffitt, The Cancer Genome Atlas, and other research efforts, which help provide funding. Results: We successfully implemented a program which resulted in high levels of patient and provider satisfaction, high numbers of fresh frozen and FFPE tissues (nearly 3,000 over 3 years), high quality pass rates, low ischemia time, and high satisfaction on the part of our research partners. We have incorporated best practices in our tissue handling protocols. Conclusions: We successfully implemented a comprehensive cancer genomics bio-specimen program utilizing dedicated staff, working with patients and clinicians closely, and assuring careful coordination of all efforts.
Tools to accurately identify veterans who undergo molecular diagnostic testing.
Authors: Kelley Michael J. , Lynch Julie Ann 
Published: February 2017

201 Background: Yearly, 52,000 veterans are diagnosed with cancer. Minorities represent 18.5% (9,651) of these patients. The rapid and explosive growth of molecular diagnostics (MDx) has created challenges for large healthcare systems such as the Veterans Health Administration (VA) to integrate genomic data into the EMR. Yet, this is an important component of high quality cancer care. In 2011, the VA cancer registry (VACCR) began reporting molecular data. This presentation will describe one project to improve integration of genomics into the EMR and the VACCR. Methods: Using ICD diagnosis codes, we identified veterans diagnosed in 2011 with brain, breast, colon, gastrointestinal stromal, lung, and melanoma cancers. Administrative data was obtained to identify MDx testing. These data were then compared to random chart audits. Significant discrepancies between these sources of data prompted collaboration with national and proprietary reference labs (ARUP, LabCorp, Quest, Genomic Health) to obtain the volume of testing by each VAMC. These data were used to conduct targeted chart reviews to identify the location, processes of care, free and structured text information. These data informed the development of natural language processing (NLP) tools to automatically identify patients that underwent testing. Results: Laboratories had the most accurate source of data. Data from ARUP, Quest, and LabCorp identified a significantly higher volume of testing than reported by administrative data. Applying NLP tools to patients diagnosed with breast cancer identified 44 of the 116 tests ordered for the 21-gene risk score tests. Conclusions: Decision support systems are needed to link tumor SNOMED code to diagnostic testing. Until systems are developed, collaborations with reference labs may be an effective method for identifying molecular data. NLP tools may also serve as an adjunct method for capturing MDx tests ordered from smaller labs.
Implementing Lynch syndrome screening utilizing a community partnership.
Authors: Eichmeyer Jennifer N. , Burtelow Matthew , Carey Michael , Montgomery Paul , Graham Cynthia , Zuckerman Dan Sayam , Beck Thomas M. 
Published: February 2017

203 Background: Lynch syndrome (LS) is an autosomal dominant condition associated with an 80% risk of colorectal cancer, a 60% risk of endometrial cancer, and additional risks for extra-colonic cancers. Amsterdam and Bethesda criteria can be used to identify patients who may be at risk. However, 25% of colon cancer and 65% of endometrial cancer patients with LS will be missed by using family history criteria alone. LS is caused by mutations in mismatch repair genes (MMR): MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM. Tumor screening by immunohistochemistry (IHC) is available, and abnormal results can be flagged for more definitive genetic counseling and testing. Recommendations from the 2009 EGAPP (Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention) Working Group concluded there is sufficient evidence to use this tumor testing for LS, and the screening would provide moderate population benefits. Cost effectiveness studies have shown universal screening detects nearly twice as many cases of LS and is < $25,000 per life year saved. Methods: St. Luke’s Mountain States Tumor Institute (MSTI) implemented these recommendations in 2012 using a unique strategy: collaborating with a community organization. The Brian Olson Foundation (BOF) strives to “prevent(ing) colon cancer through community outreach and education and saving lives by detecting colon cancer as early as possible.”These objectives were aligned with the MSTI screening program for LS in Idaho by using BOF funding to eliminate a financial burden to the patient for 12 months. Results: 204 specimens were screened for LS using IHC with the following results: 73% normal, 21% abnormal staining for MLH1/PMS2, and 6% abnormal staining for a single protein. Three families were confirmed to have LS after molecular genetic testing, and 6 families have genetic test results pending. Conclusions: Our system had IHC numbers consistent with national data, if not slightly higher. MSTI has elected to continue the program long-term. This kind of collaboration eased the change in practice such that LS screening could become a standard of care in Idaho.
Development of a cancer survivorship patient navigator program.
Authors: Salner Andrew L. , Walker Deborah , Dornelas Ellen 
Published: February 2017

206 Background: Survivorship and navigation are component concepts within the continuum of integrated comprehensive cancer care. The focus of survivorship navigation is to provide strategies for a seamless transition for patients/family from acute cancer treatment to optimal post-treatment recovery, and to communicate those strategies with the patient’s health care providers. In addition, this visit may target a “teachable moment” where patients view health and lifestyle modifications as prioritized strategies for remaining cancer free. We developed a survivorship patient navigator program utilizing an APRN model, and performed pilot studies on its feasibility and effectiveness. This project has been funded in part with federal funds from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, under Contract No. HHSN261200800001E. Methods: Our study, funded in part by a grant from the Livestrong Foundation and also through our collaborative work as an NCI Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP) site, examines whether the cancer treatment summary and survivorship care plan provided to the patient by a Survivorship Nurse Practitioner Navigator (SPN) will improve health and wellness from the patient’s perspective. The study obtained self-report data after a post treatment initial SPN visit and again 6 months later. It also explored enablers and barriers to successful program development. Results: Data analysis indicates that patients perceive they are receiving personalized and beneficial cancer care and are highly satisfied with the care plan provided. Barriers to establishing the program include: lack of MD understanding and acceptance, difficulty in obtaining treatment data from outside offices, limited staff resources, equipment costs, patient concern and buy-in for additional visit. Enablers include: MD champions, excellent communications to all team members, satisfied patients, CoC standards new in 2015 and ASCO QOPI measures, automation, sustainability, grant funding, philanthropy, and APRN visit charge. Conclusions: Survivorship is a key component of comprehensive cancer care. We have developed a sustainable model for program delivery, and our preliminary data supports enhancement of the patient experience.
Can racial and financial disparities be overcome in the surgical treatment of NSCLC?
Authors: Sasson Jordan R. , Schwartz Gary , Rehmani Sadiq , Moghaddas Hassan S , Almubarak Sarah , Evans Andrew , Becker Daniel Jacob , Levy Benjamin Philip , Nabong Andy , Rush Nadia , Bhora Faiz Y. , Connery Cliff P. 
Published: February 2017

208 Background: Considerable data exists examining disparities in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Black patients, in particular those of lower socioeconomic status (SES), are less likely to receive appropriate care, including induction therapy and resection of surgically treatable lesions. We analyzed the outcomes of resection of NSCLC among a racially and financially diverse patient population at a large urban hospital network with a comprehensive thoracic oncology program. In this system, a patient navigation support team helped overcome barriers to preoperative preparation and multidisciplinary referral. Methods: A retrospective review of 345 patients who underwent lobectomy at our institution from 2002 - 2011 was performed. Data was retrieved from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database and patient charts. Patient demographics, payor information and preoperative characteristics were noted. Postoperative complications, 30-day survival and 3-year survival were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 17.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL). Chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables and Student's t-test was used to compare continuous variables. Results: Demographics of black and non-black patients were similar. There were more black patients within the Medicaid group than non-Medicaid (48.9% and 25.3%, p=0.001). Physiologic characteristics, risk factors and use of pre-operative RT and chemotherapy were similar. Post-operative complications were comparable in Medicaid vs. non-Medicaid (11.1% and 14.7%, p=0.524), however black patients had a lower rate of complications vs. non-black (6.1% and 17.4%, p=0.007). 3-year survival was similar in the black vs. non-black (82.3% and 78.6%, p=0.879) and Medicaid vs. non-Medicaid (66.7% and 78.8%, p=0.342) groups. Conclusions: We demonstrated equivalent surgical outcomes for NSCLC in addition to the similar use of induction therapy. Surprisingly, complications were lower in the black cohort. Our results reveal that appropriate treatment is being provided regardless of race or SES, and postulate that our system of preoperative patient support eliminates potential barriers to care.