Aims:
With a growing number of elderly cancer patients at the Gold Coast University Hospital and recommendations from the International Society of Geriatric Oncology that comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) can improve function and reduce hospitalisation in the elderly a Senior Medical Oncology clinic was developed 1.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was undertaken of geriatric oncology tools and comprehensive geriatric assessments to develop our own comprehensive geriatric assessment tool.
Results:
A dedicated multidisciplinary Senior Medical Oncology clinic was formed in June 2015 with two Medical Oncologists, Oncology Registrar, Cancer Nurse Consultant, Pharmacist and Oncology Dietician. The clinic has reviewed 1-2 patients per week since the clinic’s inception. All patients are currently screened via phone prior to their appointment. Strict timetables ensure that patients are seen on time and within an appropriate time frame. The CGA takes an hour to undertake followed by 20min multidisciplinary meeting, followed by 15min oncology consultant review.
Conclusions:
The Senior Medical Oncology clinic has a cohesive team working towards providing patient centred care and safe treatment options for patients over 80. Patients are referred to appropriate allied health and/or supportive care services where indicated within the CGA. We continue to strive towards ensuring that our geriatric oncology model is one that can be replicated elsewhere in Australia. A satisfaction survey for the patients and their families to validate the clinic is planned.