Implementation of a geriatric oncology screening tool (G8) in an academic oncology practice serving a Hispanic-rich population.

Abstract

87 Background: ASCO recommends utilization of the G8 screening tool to assist in predicting mortality, but there are limited data in Hispanic patients. Our practice utilizes the G8 to identify patients who may need additional support and/or treatment modifications to decrease risk of mortality. Therefore, we built the G8 in our Electronic Medical Record (EMR) with reflex to geriatric consultation in our Hispanic-rich patient population. Methods: This is an implementation study with a team-based approach to improve the utilization and increase geriatric oncology assessments in our practice. The G8 is a geriatric screening tool of eight questions (completion time: 3 to 5 minutes). If the score is </=14, a reflexive geriatric consultation box appears on the screen to recommend a referral to Geriatrics for a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA). Nurses were empowered to complete the G8 on all new cancer patients 65+ years. Results: 215 patients had a G8 recorded in the EMR between August 2018 - March 2019. Providers completing: 10 (5%) MD/APP, 205 (95%) RNs. 119 patients were non-Hispanic, 96 were Hispanic. Of Hispanic patients, 74 (77%) spoke English, 5 (5%) spoke English and Spanish, 16 (17%) spoke Spanish, 1 (1%) spoke other. 205 patients (95.3%) were 65+ years. Average G8 score for all patients 65+ was 11.1. Of patients 65+, 169 patients (82%), scored </=14, indicating higher mortality risk. Conclusions: Integration of the G8 into our practice has been slow and steady. We believe this is partly due to lack of awareness of the benefit of the G8. Empowering nurses to complete the G8 has improved screening at our cancer center. To further improve awareness and utilization, we have initiated an interprofessional education lecture series regarding care of geriatric oncology patients, which provides nurses CNE. As we gather data on the reflex referrals to geriatricians for CGA, we will work on goals to increase MD/APP engagement. [Table: see text]