Integrative oncology consultation and symptom palliation: Analysis of patient-reported outcomes at a comprehensive cancer center.

84 Background: Patients (pts) receiving cancer care are increasingly interested in complementary health approaches to improve symptoms and quality of life. We report on demographics and patient reported outcomes in an integrative oncology (IO) clinic.

METHODS: Pts presenting for IO consultation or follow-up completed: Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing (MYCaW), Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), Short Form 12 (SF-12) quality of life (QOL) scale, and an overall satisfaction questionnaire. Consultations were provided by medical oncologists.

RESULTS: 2,474 consultations were conducted from 9/2009 to 12/2013; 26.0% (n = 643) had ≥ 1 follow-up visit (mean 3.2; SD1.8). Most were female (69%) and white (75%); most frequent cancer types was breast (29%); 29% of pts had advanced disease. At baseline, ESAS scores were highest for Sleep (4.2; SD 2.8), Fatigue (4.0; SD 2.8), Well-Being (3.8 SD 2.6) and Anxiety (3.1; SD 2.9). Those with advanced disease had significantly higher baseline ESAS scores for pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and appetite; higher ESAS subscale scores for physical and global distress; lower SF-12 physical health scores; and were more interested in developing an integrative/holistic approach and appetite. Those with loco-regional disease were more interested in overall health, hot flashes, and dry mouth. For ESAS baseline scores ≥ 4 and follow up within 30 days of the initial consult, we observed overall improvement in ESAS symptoms (38-60% of pts with ESAS decrease ≥ 1). Overall satisfaction was high at both initial encounter (9.4; SD 1.3) and first follow up (9.5; SD 1.2). Patients were satisfied to very satisfied with how well MYCaW concern 1 and 2 were addressed: 8.0 (SD 2.2) and 9.1 (SD 1.8). No difference in overall satisfaction was observed comparing those with advanced vs loco-regional disease.

CONCLUSIONS: Most pts presenting for integrative oncology consultation have early stage disease, relatively low symptom burden, and are most interested in support for overall health. Patients were overall very satisfied with how well their top concerns were addressed, with significant improvements in symptom distress.