Abstract 1571P
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant challenges for the management of patients with cancer. In our institution we adapted our delivery of outpatient systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) by introducing a number of ‘risk-reducing’ measures including pre-assessment screening. We sought to evaluate our patients’ experiences of this and to gain an insight into their perception of the risks associated with COVID-19. This is a cohort of patients who are at risk of increased morbidity and mortality and often have complex care needs.
Methods
Patients on active SACT attending the oncology day ward during the COVID-19 pandemic were eligible for participation. Data were collected over a one week period during the most intensive phase of Government restrictions, from 11/May/20-18/May/20. Personal demographics including information on social supports were recorded. In order to assess how patients perceived their care during COVID-19 they were asked questions under three headings: risk of infection exposure, changes to treatment plan and psychological impact of COVID-19.
Results
100 patients were assessed, of these 60 (60%) were male, 41 (41%) were >65 years of age and 67 (67%) had advanced cancer. 11 (11%) patients were living alone. 95 (95%) had family/friends available to help with daily activities such as shopping and transport to medical appointments. 57 (57%) reported feeling at increased risk in general of contracting COVID-19, with 95 (95%) practising social isolation. 68 (68%) patients reported that they were not worried about contracting COVID-19 in the hospital. 96 (96%) patients stated that they wanted to continue on their treatment as originally planned, reporting feeling safer on therapy. 58 (58%) felt isolated and 40 (40%) reported increased anxiety. 10 (10%) opted to delay medical attention if unwell at home.
Conclusions
Though patients on active treatment for cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic reported increased anxiety and feelings of isolation due to COVID-19, the majority of patients wanted to continue SACT as originally planned. Patients may benefit from enhanced psycho-oncological supports in the event of a 2nd peak or prolonged COVID pandemic.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
Has not received any funding.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.