ESTRO 2024 - Abstract Book

S2803

Interdisciplinary - Health economics & health services research

ESTRO 2024

still being further reviewed or if only a select group of patients stands to gain benefit from such cutting-edge treatments.

However, the implementation of a collaborative approach to give patients equal access to innovative treatments introduces certain ramifications. Patients are required to travel to specialised centres, which can pose inconvenience and logistical hurdles. Furthermore, radiotherapy professionals encounter the challenge of managing complex interorganisational logistics, underscoring the critical need for streamlined coordination and effective communication across several organisations. This is particularly the case if the patient is also undergoing other treatments such as chemotherapy. Therefore, this research aims to design a comprehensive interorganisational care pathway annex patient journey to effectively tackle the challenges encountered by patients throughout their medical journey across multiple organisations, while also streamlining the logistical processes for radiotherapy professionals. For this ongoing study, initiated in mid-2022, we focused on exploring the utilization of proton therapy for the treatment of lung and oesophageal cancers, serving as an illustrative case study. We applied the canonical action research method for its unique integration of scientific principles with real-world challenges through a co-creation approach (3). Our method drew upon various theories, such as Picker's principles for patient-centred care, the Institute of Medicine's dimensions for quality of care, the guidelines for oncology care pathways of the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), and the principles of supply chain management in healthcare (4 – 6). We organised multidisciplinary workshops, bringing together key-stakeholders, including representatives from patient advocacy organisations, the patient council, referring radiation therapy centres, the proton therapy facility, and finally researchers from the domains supply chain management and information management. The workshops were conducted in collaboration with IKNL. Also, the results of interviews with multiple stakeholders were used as input for the workshop to design the new interorganisational care pathways. The Figures below illustrate the recently formulated care pathways, including important steps in the patient journeys, e.g., shared decision-making and lead times for essential stages within the process. Notably, a logistics contact person was appointed to facilitate timely responses to inquiries from radiation oncologists and streamlining communication. Additionally, the referral process and data exchange protocols were optimised. To better support patients, a dedicated patient counselor was appointed. Additionally, we are enhancing our informational resources and restructuring the website to ensure easier access for individuals with limited literacy levels. Recognising the significance of informal caregivers, we also increased our focus on their pivotal role during patient journey. During our study, we recognised the significance of engaging not just radiotherapy professionals and patients, but also incorporating other essential stakeholders within the care continuum. This includes the integration of pulmonologists, gastro-enterologists, and case-managers (specialised nurses) to ensure comprehensive and holistic patient care. Material/Methods: Results: