Medical Oncology Group Of Australia Research Articles

Improving Access to Cancer Clinical Trials for Patients From Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds in Australia: A Survey of Clinical and Research Professionals.

Patients with cancer from racial and ethnic minorities, referred to as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) in Australia, are significantly under-represented in cancer clinical trials. We performed a national survey of the Australian cancer clinical trials workforce to determine barriers and preferred solutions to address this inequity. A 15-item online survey containing both closed- and open-ended purpose-designed questions was created using REDCap. The survey was emailed to members of the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia, Medical Oncology Group of Australia, and Australian cancer cooperative trial groups, and promoted via Twitter. Descriptive analyses summarized quantitative data, and free-text entries underwent thematic analysis with NVivo Version 12. Ninety one respondents completed the survey-with representation across Australia. Eighty-seven percent were directly involved in clinical trial recruitment. Sixty-eight percent were clinicians. Seventy-four percent of respondents did not collect routine data on CALD patient enrollment to cancer clinical trials. Communication (eg, lack of translated materials) and opportunity-related barriers (eg, exclusionary trial protocols) were the most frequently perceived barriers to recruitment. Additionally, qualitative analysis indicated that insufficient consultation time and difficulties accessing interpreters for patients with non-English language preference were significant barriers. Trial navigators and a generic cancer trial pamphlet available in multiple languages were judged the most likely solutions to improve recruitment. This study articulates the Australian clinical trials workforce's perspective on current barriers and potential solutions to the under-representation of patients from CALD backgrounds on cancer clinical trials. The insights and solutions from this survey provide steps toward achieving equity in Australian cancer clinical trials.

Pharmacogenetics testing (DPYD and UGT1A1) for fluoropyrimidine and irinotecan in routine clinical care: Perspectives of medical oncologists and oncology pharmacists.

Despite robust evidence and international guidelines, to support routine pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing, integration in practice has been limited. This study explored clinicians' views and experiences of pre-treatment DPYD and UGT1A1 gene testing and barriers to and enablers of routine clinical implementation. A study-specific 17-question survey was emailed (01 February-12 April 2022) to clinicians from the Medical Oncology Group of Australia (MOGA), the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) and International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners (ISOPP). Data were analysed and reported using descriptive statistics. Responses were collected from 156 clinicians (78% medical oncologists, 22% pharmacists). Median response rate of 8% (ranged from 6% to 24%) across all organisations. Only 21% routinely test for DPYD and 1% for UGT1A1. For patients undergoing curative/palliative intent treatments, clinicians reported intent to implement genotype-guided dosing by reducing FP dose for DPYD intermediate metabolisers (79%/94%), avoiding FP for DPYD poor metabolisers (68%/90%), and reducing irinotecan dose for UGT1A1 poor metabolisers (84%, palliative setting only). Barriers to implementation included: lack of financial reimbursements (82%) and perceived lengthy test turnaround time (76%). Most Clinicians identified a dedicated program coordinator, i.e., PGx pharmacist (74%) and availability of resources for education/training (74%) as enablers to implementation. PGx testing is not routinely practised despite robust evidence for its impact on clinical decision making in curative and palliative settings. Research data, education and implementation studies may overcome clinicians' hesitancy to follow guidelines, especially for curative intent treatments, and may overcome other identified barriers to routine clinical implementation.

Discussion of costs and financial burden in clinical practice: A survey of medical oncologists in Australia.

BackgroundA diagnosis of cancer is associated with significant physical, psychological and financial burden. Including costs of cancer is an important component of shared decision making. Doctors bear a responsibility towards educating patients about the financial aspects of care. Multiple organisations have advocated for price transparency and implementing Informed Financial Consent in the clinic. However, few studies have evaluated the perspectives of oncologists on the current state of this discussion.AimsThe aim of this study is to determine the views and perspectives of medical oncologists regarding communication of costs and financial burden in patients with cancer.MethodsWe conducted a prospective cross-sectional online survey via REDCap. The survey was distributed to medical oncologists and advanced trainees currently registered with Medical Oncology Group of Australia (MOGA). Data was collected using the online survey comprising socio-demographic characteristics, discussion of costs and financial burden, and facilitators and barriers to these discussions.Results547 members of MOGA were invited to participate in the study, and 106 of 547 MOGA members (19%) completed the survey. Most oncologists (66%) felt that it was their responsibility to discuss costs of care, however a majority of oncologists (59.3%) reported discussing costs with less than half of their patients. Only 25% of oncologists discussed financial concerns with more than half of their patients, and most oncologists were unfamiliar with cancer-related financial burden. Most Oncologists with greater clinical experience and those working in private practice were more likely to discuss costs with a majority of their patients.ConclusionsCertain characteristics of medical oncologists and their practices were associated with reported prevalence of discussing costs of care and financial burden with their patients. In the context of rising costs of cancer care, interventions targeting modifiable factors such as raising oncologist awareness of costs of care and financial burden, screening for financial toxicity and availability of costs information in an easily accessible manner, may help increase the frequency of patient-doctor discussions about costs of care, contributing to informed decision-making and higher-quality cancer care.

Editorial introductions.

Editorial introductions.

Medical Oncology Group of Australia position statement: COVID-19 vaccination in patients with solid tumours.

People with cancer are vulnerable to increased morbidity and mortality from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). COVID‐19 vaccination is key to protecting the population of people with cancer from adverse outcomes of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The Medical Oncology Group of Australia aimed to address the considerations around COVID‐19 vaccination in people with cancer, in particular, safety and efficacy of vaccination. The assessment of patients with generalised allergic reaction to anti‐cancer therapy containing vaccine components and practical implementation of vaccination of people on active anti‐cancer therapy are also discussed.

Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated Executive Committee.

Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated Executive Committee.

Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated‐Executive Committee

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 20-21 MEDICAL ONCOLOGY GROUP OF AUSTRALIA INCORPORATED-EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated-Executive Committee First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13204Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat No abstract is available for this article. Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 20-21 RelatedInformation

Author Index

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 101-104 AUTHOR INDEX Author Index First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13219Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 101-104 RelatedInformation

Plenary Session – Best of the Best Research 2019 Abstracts

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 66-70 ABSTRACTS Plenary Session – Best of the Best Research 2019 Abstracts First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13217Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 66-70 RelatedInformation

Poster Abstracts

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 71-100 ABSTRACTS Poster Abstracts First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13218Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 71-100 RelatedInformation

Immuno-Oncology Forum.

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 51-51 IMMUNO-ONCOLOGY FORUM Immuno-Oncology Forum First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13213Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat No abstract is available for this article. Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 51-51 RelatedInformation

Program at a Glance

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 42-44 PROGRAM IN DETAIL Program at a Glance First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13211Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat No abstract is available for this article. Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 42-44 RelatedInformation

Scientific Program.

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 45-50 SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM Scientific Program First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13212Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 45-50 RelatedInformation

National Speakers.

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 33-41 NATIONAL SPEAKERS National Speakers First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13210Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 33-41 RelatedInformation

Convenor's Welcome.

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 15, Issue S5 p. 7-7 CONVENOR'S WELCOME Convenor's Welcome First published: 05 August 2019 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13200Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat No abstract is available for this article. Volume15, IssueS5Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated 40th Anniversary Annual Scientific Meeting, Leading the Way in Medical Oncology Education, Research and Clinical Practice, 14–16 August 2019, National Canberra Convention Centre, Canberra, AustraliaAugust 2019Pages 7-7 RelatedInformation

AOL-3 - Medical oncology group of Australia: taking a leading role in medical oncology education, patient care & research

Background: The Medical Oncology Group of Australia (MOGA) is the leading professional organisation for medical oncology in Australia and is a specialty society of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. Founded in 1973, MOGA is the key point of reference on all matters relating to medical oncology education, patient management and research in Australia. Membership: MOGA brings together 660 medical oncologists (519 consultants: 141 trainees); representing approximately 98% of the Australian medical oncology workforce. Supporting members: MOGA supports its members through: “Post-graduate medical oncology training; “Developing career development initiatives; “Developing Scientific and Academic meetings, programs & workshops; “Contributing to the development and promotion of evidence-based standards for cancer care, management and clinical practice; “Advocacy, lobbying and professional representation; “Research activities and special projects; and “Consumer and Community Support via key organisations. Education and research: MOGA takes a leading role in advancing medical oncology training and education through several initiatives including; Communications Skills Training, Young Oncologists Education Programs, a Sciences of Oncology Program as well as an Annual Scientific Meeting. MOGA organises the Australia Asia Pacific Oncology Research Development (ACORD) Workshop that has trained more than 498 oncology professionals in clinical trials design. Patient management and clinical practice: MOGA is committed to ensuring that the highest standards of international best practice clinical care. Initiatives include the preparation and dissemination of practice guidelines and tools, and advocacy through major organisations. MOGA is proactive in working for oncology treatment access. Conclusion: MOGA takes pride in its place as a hub for all Australian medical oncology issues nationally, speaking with a strong voice for the discipline and members of the profession.

The Australian Medical Oncologist Workforce Survey: The profile and challenges of medical oncology

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to understand the current and future challenges for the Australian medical oncologist workforce. MethodsUtilising an on-line self-administered questionnaire, this cross-sectional study collected data from members of the Medical Oncology Group of Australia on workforce-related issues. Participants consisted of medical oncology specialist advanced trainees, early-career oncologists (ECOs), and medical oncology consultants. FindingsOf the 633 members, 354 completed the questionnaire, representing a 55.9% response rate. Based on Medical Oncology Group of Australia membership, the number of medical oncologists has increased since the previous workforce study in 2009, with an uncertainty among junior medical oncologists regarding their future career prospects. The majority of participants worked in capital cities and metropolitan areas within the three most populous Australian states. Almost half (45%) of ECOs and consultants are undertaking or have completed a higher degree. A large number of advanced trainees (93%) and half of ECOs in this study were concerned about their future career prospects. For these participants, most were satisfied with the supervision they received (60% trainees and 69% ECOs) but only half of these participants (47% trainees and 52% ECOs) received any mentoring in their current or previous role. Compared to trainees and ECOs, consultants reported spending significantly more hours on administration per week; trainees 5.3 hours, ECOs 5.8 hours, consultants 7.5 hours (P < .031) and see a significantly greater number of patients per week; trainees 34 patients, ECOs 34 patients and consultants 49 patients (P < .001). InterpretationWorkforce challenges were unique across different career stages in oncology; trainees, ECOs and consultants. Work intensity, mentorship and career prospects were amongst the emergent issues highlighted in this study.

Utilisation of geriatric assessment in oncology - a survey of Australian medical oncologists.

Geriatric assessment (GA) is a multidimensional health assessment of the older person to evaluate their physical and cognitive function, comorbidities, nutrition, medications, psychological state, and social supports. GA may help oncologists optimise care for older patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the views of Australian medical oncologists regarding the incorporation of geriatric screening tools, GA and collaboration with geriatricians into routine clinical practice. Members of the Medical Oncology Group of Australia were invited to complete an online survey that evaluated respondent demographics, practice characteristics, treatment decision-making factors, use of GA, and access to geriatricians. Sixty-nine respondents identified comorbidities, polypharmacy, and poor functional status as the most frequent challenges in caring for older patients with cancer. Physical function, social supports and nutrition were the most frequent factors influencing treatment decision-making. The majority of respondents perceived value in GA and geriatrician review, although access was a barrier for referral. Such services would need to be responsive, providing reports within two weeks for the majority of respondents. Despite an emerging evidence base for the potential benefits of GA and collaboration with geriatricians, medical oncologists reported a lack of access but a desire to engage with these services.

Abstract Listing

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 14, Issue S3 p. 37-41 ABSTRACT LISTING Abstract Listing First published: 18 July 2018 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13018Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume14, IssueS3Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated Annual Scientific Meeting, New Directions in Personalised Cancer Therapy, 1–3 August 2018, Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, AustraliaAugust 2018Pages 37-41 RelatedInformation

Acknowledgements

Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical OncologyVolume 14, Issue S3 p. 10-11 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Acknowledgements First published: 18 July 2018 https://doi.org/10.1111/ajco.13006Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat No abstract is available for this article. Volume14, IssueS3Special Issue: Medical Oncology Group of Australia Incorporated Annual Scientific Meeting, New Directions in Personalised Cancer Therapy, 1–3 August 2018, Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, AustraliaAugust 2018Pages 10-11 RelatedInformation