Abstract
140 Background: A review of the literature failed to identify a screening tool specific to the unique needs of cancer survivors. The Coleman Supportive Oncology Collaborative (CSOC) developed a tool to evaluate psychosocial, physical and practical concerns, and emotional distress for concurrent use during the cancer survivorship visit. Based on pilot results of the tool, minor modifications were made and tested. Methods: The CSOC (v.3) survivorship tool was used in patients (n = 49) who had completed their adjuvant therapy at one of two safety net hospitals in Chicago, IL. The CSOC v.3 screening tool items (n = 44) include: PHQ4, fear of another cancer or recurrence, financial, social and religious concerns, nutritional concerns, physical concerns, lifestyle risk factors, and treatment/care concerns. Results: The most common patient concerns included: fear of another cancer 53% (26/49), tingling in my hands/feet 53% (26/49), concerns about diet 51% (25/49), pain 51% (25/49), sleep 51% (25/49), dry skin 47% (23/49); endorsement of these concerns were not significantly associated. Of the 44 items, 16 were reported by at least 30% of patients, and 3 items were reported by less than 10% of patients. There was an average of 15 items/concerns noted by patients with a maximum of 27 items and a minimum of 5 items. Clinicians (n = 7) reported the use of the screening tool results aided the survivorship appointment discussion, directing the focus to reported patient’s concerns. Conclusions: Survivors continue to experience multiple concerns and distress, thus they may benefit from a comprehensive tool that is tailored to capture their unique survivorship needs. Administration of the tool at the beginning of the survivorship appointment provided the framework for the patient’s appointment narrative. An additional study is planned to compare use of the tool versus current practice at a large academic center.
