Optimizing patient (pt) care through pt-focused resources to prevent and manage hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR).

Abstract

e24144 Background: Research has shown that pts and caregivers (non-HCPs) seek medical and disease-related information more than once a month, and this has accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they find it difficult to understand the information they receive and thus, can be misinformed. By understanding the use of fair-balanced medical information (MI) resources by non-HCPs, pharmaceutical companies can develop scientifically accurate yet pt-friendly resources to meet their needs (Goettner, 2022; Rai, 2022). Upon reviewing the unsolicited oncology inquiries received by our MI department, approximately 25% of inquiries were from non-HCPs seeking information. Over the past 3 years, non-HCPs have submitted almost 10,000 inquiries regarding our oncology products, in which 191 inquiries were specifically regarding HFSR and regorafenib and sorafenib. Historically, our MI department responded to non-HCP inquiries by sharing the product label information. However, we identified an unmet need for trustworthy, comprehensive, and accurate pt resources in plain language. Methods: A full literature review was performed, and the relevant data were summarized in plain language for pts. Both HCPs and pts participated in developing the global pt resource on the prevention and management of HFSR for regorafenib and sorafenib. The seven-page interactive brochure was written in 4th to 6th grade reading level which included images and graphics to enhance the understanding of data, easy navigation to the content of interest, and glossary to define key terms. Furthermore, these materials were translated for pts who participated in the regorafenib and sorafenib Patient Support Program in Brazil to further educate and support pts who have started therapy. Results: As of June 2023, the global pt medical resource has been deployed 28 times in Brazil, delivering key information to non-HCPs on their disease and treatment while emphasizing its practical utility and addressing health literacy challenges. We collected feedback from pts who utilized the translated material, and they described it to be “informative” and “helpful” since it empowered them to effectively navigate and address HFSR-associated discomforts during their treatment journey. The feedback has also been utilized to further enhance the resource’s feasibility. Conclusions: The pt feedback on the brochures showcases the value of pt-focused approach in oncology and the positive impact of collective efforts across all stakeholders including pts, pharmaceutical MI departments and pt programs. Furthermore, it demonstrates how MI can bridge the gap between pt insights and clinical knowledge by addressing their needs and providing practical and trustworthy tools. Not only does this initiative enhance pt understanding but also empowers pts to take a more active role in their treatment and fosters shared-decision making.