Improving the understanding of integrative oncology approaches among hospitalized patients with cancer.

Abstract

e23234 Background: Many integrative oncology (IO) outpatient (OP) cancer care approaches—yoga, acupuncture, massage, physical activity—have demonstrated benefit and are now part of guideline care. We report on a pilot inpatient (IP) IO consultative service aimed at introducing patients and families to IO at a time when cancer- and treatment-related symptoms can be significant. As a measure of patient-centered care, we assessed patient’s change in perceived understanding, intention to promote health, confidence in care, and plan for IO OP follow up. Methods: IO consultations that assess nutrition, activity, and stress were made available to patients in the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH) starting in July 2023 as ordered by the primary oncology team. Consultations (69) have been conducted by an Integrative Medicine Fellow and an attending Board Certified in both Medical Oncology and Integrative Medicine. The post-IO consultation survey includes 7 questions with a 5-point Likert Scale (1 = Do Not Agree, 5 = Completely Agree).The survey was initially offered as an online link. A paper format was developed at patient request. Results: A total of 34 patients (50%) completed the post-consultation survey. Conclusions: Patients expressed a greater likelihood of focusing on wellness through diet, nutrition, meditation, and stress reduction (76.4%) and of taking steps to promote their health (87.9%); as well as an improved understanding of the relationship between nutrition and health (88.2%) and stress and health (88.2%). Patients noted a more positive view of TJUH (84.4%) and greater confidence in their treatment (81.8%). In addition, only 10% of patients decided not to pursue an IO appointment after discharge. These pilot data suggest a benefit to IP IO consultation. [Table: see text]