Early access to a cardio-oncology clinic in an Australian context: a qualitative exploration of patient experiences

Abstract

Background Dedicated cardio-oncology services are emerging rapidly around the world in order to provide cardiovascular care (CV) for cancer patients. The perspectives of patients regarding their experience of cardiac surveillance during their cancer journey has not been qualitatively evaluated. Methods An interpretative qualitative study. Fifteen, in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with a diverse range of community dwelling patients who attended a newly established cardio-oncology clinic in a large regional city in Australia. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Results Key themes were identified: (1) Access to a cardio-oncology clinic promotes information and understanding, (2) The experience of early CV intervention, (3) Factors promoting integrated care, (4) Balancing cancer treatment and CV symptoms and (5) Managing past and emerging CV risk factors. Conclusion As cardio oncology clinics continue to emerge, this study confirms the benefit of early access to a cardiologist for management of existing or emerging CV risk factors and diseases in the context of cancer treatment. Participants valued the opportunity for regular monitoring and management of CV issues that enabled them to continue cancer treatment. However, we identified gaps in education and support towards making positive lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of CV diseases in cancer patients.

Patient Information Resources on Cardiovascular Health After Cancer Treatment: An Audit of Australian Resources

“…A recent study found patients reported an increase in knowledge and understanding of the relationship between cancer and cardiovascular disease after referral to a new cardio-oncology clinic in Australia, with some patients reporting gratitude and relief at having their cardiovascular health being closely monitored. 64 …”

Cardiology and oncology: a meeting of giants

“…One way to enhance collaboration between the fields would be the partnership between cardiologists and oncologists in participating in and designing clinical trials to establish and analyze cardiovascular outcomes in an adjudicated manner, for example, as occurred in the Pronounce study 60 . Furthermore, for cardio-oncology to strengthen, more studies demonstrating the beneficial impact of specialized cardio-oncology care are needed 61 .…”

Risk and Management of Patients with Cancer and Heart Disease

“…Collaboration among cardiology and oncology specialists is integral prior to the delivery of any cancer therapy to enable early recognition, management, support and optimal care of cardiac toxicity [ 78 – 80 ]. Patients emphasized the need for more personalized care and multi-disciplinary collaboration to ensure more tailored and holistic care [ 74 , 80 , 81 ].…”

“…The development and validation of a specific patient-reported outcome tool to assess quality of life is urgently required. Furthermore, a multidisciplinary team of physicians and nurse practitioners working across cardiology and oncology specialisms should aim to integrate short- and long-term follow-up appointments, enabling a holistic care approach that enhances patients’ physical, spiritual, and psychosocial well-being [ 81 ].…”