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Alsakkaf GEA, Boşnak AS, Birand N. Assessment of pharmacy students' knowledge about breast cancer and colon cancer in Northern Cyprus universities. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2024; 30:710-720. [PMID: 37357613 DOI: 10.1177/10781552231184588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colon and breast cancer are the most common types of cancer in cancer patients worldwide. Therefore, health students, especially pharmacy students, should be well-educated about colon and breast cancer. Adequate education and knowledge provide significant benefits from early diagnosis to treatment. METHODOLOGY This study was conducted as a cross-sectional study for 3 months between 1 November 2022, and 31 January 2023, in Northern Cyprus. The aim of this study was to assess pharmacy students' knowledge of breast cancer and colon cancer in North Cyprus Universities. RESULT A total of 494 pharmacy students participated in this study. Twenty-three incompletely filled questionnaires were excluded from the study. Regarding Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students' knowledge of colon cancer, 298 out of 494 had good knowledge and 196 out of 494 had poor knowledge. Regarding Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students' knowledge of breast cancer, 317 out of 494 had good knowledge and 177 out of 494 had poor knowledge. The total score of knowledge of Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students about breast cancer was 10 ± 3.43 and 11.40 ± 3.67, respectively. The total score of knowledge of Near East University and Cyprus International University pharmacy students about colon cancer was 7.54 ± 3.67 and 9.19 ± 4.08, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the study indicate that most of the pharmacy students have good knowledge about the risk factors and symptoms of breast and colon cancer, but are not at the ideal knowledge level expected in the fight against cancer after graduation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamal E Ahmed Alsakkaf
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Ahmet S Boşnak
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, North Cyprus, Turkey
| | - Nevzat Birand
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, North Cyprus, Turkey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, North Cyprus, Turkey
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Shi L, Wei W, Smith A, Abbasi G. Implementation and evaluation of an EHR-integrated perpetual inventory system in a large tertiary hospital oncology pharmacy. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2024:zxae022. [PMID: 38298005 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
DISCLAIMER In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. PURPOSE This study aimed to compare the impact of an electronic health record (EHR)-integrated perpetual inventory management system (EIMS) versus a traditional inventory management system (TIMS) on inventory accuracy, visibility, and turnover in a large academic tertiary hospital. METHODS The quasi-experimental study was conducted over 12 months (a 6-month preimplementation period and a 6-month postimplementation period, with an 11-month washout period) at Houston Methodist Hospital. The EIMS was implemented following the use of TIMS. A total of 114 matched inventory items from both systems were identified and compared. The primary outcome was inventory accuracy, calculated as cycle count accuracy. The secondary outcomes were inventory visibility and monthly inventory turnover rate. RESULTS Analysis demonstrated a 6.02% absolute increase in inventory accuracy (P < 0.001) with use of the EIMS versus the TIMS. After adjusting for inflation, there was an increase in the captured cost of goods sold from $4.16 million to $5.16 million. The monthly inventory value, adjusted for inflation in the prices of studied inventory items, increased from $2.05 million to $2.33 million. The monthly inventory turnover rate increased from 2.03 to 2.23 turns per month (P = 0.305) when compared to the pre- and post-implementation periods. Inventory visibility increased from 133 inventory items to 264 inventory items after EIMS implementation, indicating a 98% visibility increase compared to preimplementation levels. CONCLUSION This study found that implementing an EIMS significantly increased pharmacy inventory accuracy and inventory visibility, which are essential for optimizing patient care and pharmacy financial management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luning Shi
- Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wenfei Wei
- Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Adam Smith
- Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Myers G, Stevens J, Flewelling A, Richard J, London M. Evaluation and clinical impact of a pharmacist-led, interdisciplinary service focusing on education, monitoring and toxicity management of immune checkpoint inhibitors. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2023; 29:145-154. [PMID: 34846197 DOI: 10.1177/10781552211061133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Immune-related adverse events are complications of immune checkpoint inhibitors which require robust patient education and proactive follow-up to ensure timely identification and management. Oncology pharmacist practice models with other anticancer modalities have been well documented, but there is limited evidence assessing the spectrum of pharmacist interventions in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor(s) and the impact of these interventions on patient outcomes. METHODS Patients initiated on immune checkpoint inhibitor(s) from 1 January 2016 to 31 August 2019 were included for data collection and analysis. Part 1 featured an intensive pharmacist follow-up cohort (study cohort) and summarized pharmacist interventions. Part 2 compared patient outcomes between the study cohort and a standard of care cohort (control cohort) from a different oncology centre. Patient outcomes included emergency department visits not resulting in admission, hospitalizations due to immune-related adverse event(s), immune checkpoint inhibitor cycles received, treatment discontinuation due to immune-related adverse event(s), completion of finite programmed death-1/death-1 ligand treatment course and completion of ipilimumab. Clinical outcomes were compared using a retrospective, matched cohort design based on age, cancer diagnosis and immune checkpoint inhibitor(s). RESULTS A total of 143 patients were included in Part 1 encompassing 1664 pharmacist recommendations across 11 categories. The matched cohort yielded 92 matches (n = 184) with a higher odds of immune checkpoint inhibitor discontinuation due to immune-related adverse event(s) in the control cohort (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) = 5.5 (1.2-24.8); p = 0.022). CONCLUSION Intensive immune-related adverse event education, proactive follow-up and immune-related adverse event management by pharmacists result in clinically meaningful interventions which correlate to improved patient outcomes, namely lower odds of treatment discontinuation due to immune-related adverse event(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Myers
- 10068Horizon Health Network, The Moncton Hospital, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Jonathan Stevens
- 104273Horizon Health Network, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Andrew Flewelling
- 104273Horizon Health Network, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | | | - Meagan London
- 104273Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Pasupuleti D, Nguyen T, Nahta R. Using Online Cancer Genomics Databases to Provide Teaching Resources for Pharmacy Education. Am J Pharm Educ 2022; 86:ajpe8683. [PMID: 34507956 PMCID: PMC10159395 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Connecting scientific concepts with clinical applications is an important objective of pharmacy education. As the field of precision oncology expands, it is critical for pharmacy students to understand how genetic information informs cancer treatment decisions. However, to effectively teach students about pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics, faculty require relevant educational resources, including those that support higher-order learning. In this Commentary, we demonstrate the potential utility of publicly accessible cancer genomics databases as teaching resources for pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics in oncology pharmacy education. Using clinical data retrieved from a genomics database, we illustrate how case studies can be developed to target core competencies, including understanding tumor genomics profiling, somatic mutations and pharmacotherapy selection, and clinical pharmacogenetics testing. Cancer genomics databases provide readily available, cost-effective, clinical data resources that support active learning related to pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics education in oncology pharmacy curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tro Nguyen
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Rita Nahta
- Mercer University, College of Pharmacy, Atlanta, Georgia
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Ogbaghebriel A, Alshamrani M, Ibrahim A, Al-Masaary W, Hakami S, Alrasheed S, Al-Sayed N. Pharmacy practitioners' adherence to safe-handling practices of chemotherapeutic drugs: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2022:10781552221105584. [PMID: 35642271 DOI: 10.1177/10781552221105584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy drug handling and occupational exposure are topics of concern for a variety of oncology health care professionals. Inappropriate handling can pose health risks to practitioners particularly, those who handle them on a daily basis. Therefore, this study aimed to assess chemotherapy handling practices among oncology pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey with a structured pre-validated questionnaire. Data was collected from pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who handle chemotherapeutic agents in Saudi Arabia, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS A total of 79 oncology pharmacy practitioners responded to the survey. The majority (92.4%) had written chemotherapy guidelines at their workplaces. Almost all participants (98.7%) reported the availability of protective gloves and gowns, however, the availability of eye protection was only 57%. Most used chemotherapy-designated gloves (83.6%), and gowns (86.1%). However, 54.4% have reused disposable gowns. The extent of utilization of most protective equipment ranged from 70% (always using closed system transfer device) to 98% (always using shoe cover); while the practice of always using eye protection and face shield was only 30.4% and 38%, respectively. With regard to cleaning practice, the work area was cleaned at least once a day by 35%; monthly decontamination (77%); certification by the biomedical department every 6 months (67%) and at least yearly (95%). Accidental exposure was reported by 28%, and the most common adverse effect was skin irritation (82%). There was no workplace medical surveillance available for 50%. The majority (88.6%) received relevant training, but not periodic updates on their training (38%). The main barriers against the use of personal protective equipment were: that some personal protective equipments were not always available (38%), and personal protective equipments were too uncomfortable to use (30.4%). The demographic variables did not have a statistically significant effect (p > 0.05) on the responses except for type of institution (workplace) on some of the cleaning practices that showed significant differences namely, the monthly decontamination and certification by the biomedical department. CONCLUSIONS Most protective equipment and chemotherapy guidelines were available, and the majority of pharmacy practitioners adhered to many aspects of chemotherapy safe-handling practices. Nevertheless, some areas such as medical surveillance programs, use of eye protection and face shields, the practice of re-using disposable gowns, some of the barriers against personal protective equipment use, and the provision of periodic training need improvement for better protection of the health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azieb Ogbaghebriel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Alshamrani
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alnada Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wed Al-Masaary
- College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Hakami
- College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahad Alrasheed
- College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada Al-Sayed
- College of Pharmacy, 112893Princess Nourah bint Abulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Walker A, Chan A, Labra CC, de Lemos ML, Geirnaert M, Albert-Marí MA, Atik EA, Borlagdan J, Crespo A, Danilak M, Kandemir EA, Lim C, Alabelewe RM, Mutiara R, Tewthanom K, Yim B, Nakashima L. International society of oncology pharmacy practitioners (ISOPP) position statement: The role of oncology pharmacy practitioners in immunotherapy treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors for malignant conditions. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2022:10781552221090199. [PMID: 35382638 DOI: 10.1177/10781552221090199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oncology pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and assistants are key members of the multidisciplinary health care team (MHT) caring for patients receiving immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners (ISOPP) developed this position statement to provide guidance on the role of oncology pharmacy practitioners in caring for patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.Four key recommendations were identified: 1) participation as an integrated, collaborative member of the MHT;2) provision of education and training for patients, students, residents, fellows and other members of the MHT;3) involvement in clinical governance to optimise the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors and4) involvement in research and development in the field of immunotherapy.In summary, oncology pharmacy practitioners play essential roles within the MHT in caring for patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Walker
- 4014The Calderdale And Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Alexandre Chan
- School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 8788University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jared Borlagdan
- 6684Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Andrea Crespo
- 573450Cancer Care Ontario (Ontario Health), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - CheaXin Lim
- 60294The Brunei Cancer Centre, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
| | | | - Rina Mutiara
- 364090Drcipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Dki Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Karunrat Tewthanom
- Faculty of Pharmacy, 93820Silpakorn University, Meaung, NakhonPathom, Thailand
| | - Barbara Yim
- 25430JHS Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Gania GK, Tadros M, Fernandez B, Shokoya A, Chow N. Perceptions of PGY-2 Oncology Programs on Financial Toxicity Education and Preparedness. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2022:10781552221082214. [PMID: 35196187 DOI: 10.1177/10781552221082214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer patients experience a rising monetary burden due to increased direct and in-direct costs associated with cancer treatment. This as a result has an adverse effect on the financial well-being of a cancer patient, also known as financial toxicity. Currently, there is a lack of literature surrounding the implementation of financial toxicity in post-graduate oncology residency training for pharmacists. The objective of this study was to describe the perceptions of PGY-2 oncology pharmacy residents and residency program directors on the incorporation of financial toxicity within their training programs and to assess self-perceptions of their level of abilities and experience managing financial toxicity for patients.A qualitative RedCap electronic survey was emailed in December 2020 to resident and directors of PGY-2 oncology programs in the United States.Out of 40 respondents, 64% of residency program directors were highly comfortable with the concept of financial toxicity, while 73% of pharmacy residents were uncomfortable with the concept of financial toxicity within their program. Furthermore, a majority of residents were either uncomfortable or highly uncomfortable managing financial toxicity for patients. In addition, the most commonly utilized method of incorporating the concept of financial toxicity in all programs was through specialty pharmacy and patient assistance programs (PAPs); residents also preferred these methods along with guest speakers to provide this training.Financial toxicity concepts should be considered as an educational standard and incorporated through unique methods of education. We suggest introducing the concept through guest speakers, followed by practical applications integrated in specialty pharmacies and PAPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Aisha Shokoya
- 7403Baptist Health South Florida, Plantation, FL, USA
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8
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Masini C, Gallegati D, Gentili N, Massa I, Ciucci R, Altini M. The Challenge of Sustainability of High-Cost Oncological Drugs: A Budgeting Model in an Italian Cancer Center. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:13413. [PMID: 34949032 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In Italy, drug expenditure governance is achieved by setting caps based on the percentage increase in hospital spending compared to the previous year. This method is ineffective in identifying issues and opportunities as it does not consider an analysis of the number of treated cases and per capita consumption in local and regional settings. The IRCCS (Scientific hospitalization and treatment institute) Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori” in Meldola, has developed and adopted an effective management model designed to oversee pharmaceutical expenditure, guarantee prescription appropriateness and quality of care to patients. The budget setting follows a structured process which evaluates determining factors of the expenditure such as expected patients calculated according to the epidemiology and to national and regional indications of appropriateness, mean cost per patient calculated on the average period of demonstrated efficacy of the drug and use of drugs with the best cost-effectiveness ratio. Strict monitoring and integrated purchasing processes allow for immediate corrective actions on expenditures, as well as a continuous dialogue with the region in order to guarantee consistent funding of IRST activities. The model, presented in this article is efficient and implements concepts beyond the conventional “silos” approach and national and regional governance tools, in terms of patient centricity.
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Yacobucci MJ, Lombardi CL, Briceland LL. Exploring practice site contributions and professionalization impact of engaging student pharmacists on hematology-oncology advanced pharmacy practice experience rotations. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2021; 28:109-118. [PMID: 33470177 DOI: 10.1177/1078155220985579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Student pharmacists contribute meaningfully to patient care during Advanced Practice Pharmacy Experiences (APPEs) in varied settings. We aimed to characterize and evaluate the impact of student participation in hematology-oncology (hem-onc) APPEs on the practice site, and on student professionalization. METHODS For students completing hem-onc APPEs during 2016-2019, rotation activities and post-APPE self-reflections describing meaningful impact were reviewed; activities were categorized into direct and indirect patient care, and up to three reflection themes of professionalization impact were extracted from each self-reflection. Hem-onc preceptor cohort was surveyed to assess impact of student contributions on the practice site. RESULTS 171 students completed hem-onc APPEs in ambulatory care (133) and/or inpatient (38) settings. Of 932 student-reported activities, the most common were: evaluating patient pharmacotherapy (209), providing education to medical staff (132), patient counseling [non-chemotherapy (99); chemotherapy (82)], and providing drug information (96); 89% involved direct patient care/education. Survey results from 16 of 33 preceptors identified the most impactful student activities as evaluating pharmacotherapy, medication education/adherence resources, and in-service presentations. Of 392 student self-reflections, themes of impact focused on professionalization/self-awareness (39.3%), counseling/communication skills (27.8%), practice skills development (20.4%) and collaborative teamwork (12.5%). CONCLUSION Pharmacy students make significant direct patient care contributions to hem-onc practice settings by evaluating pharmacotherapy and providing education to patients and healthcare personnel. Participation in hem-onc APPEs is highly influential to the professionalization of students, particularly in developing skills in oncology practice, patient interactions/communications, and developing self-awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Yacobucci
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, NY, USA.,Albany Medical Center Hospital, Albany, NY, USA
| | | | - Laurie L Briceland
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, NY, USA
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Buhlinger KM, Borlagdan J, Agegnehu B, Fentie AM, Bernstein AT, Urick BY, Roberts M, Weitzman S, Bekele W, Korones D, Alexander TB, Broas J, Shad A, Dinkiye AM, Clark SM, Adam H, Hailu D, Muluneh B. Results of a pre-implementation analysis of Ethiopia's National Pediatric Cancer Registry. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2020; 27:1940-1947. [PMID: 33342356 DOI: 10.1177/1078155220980051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In Ethiopia, cancer accounts for about 5.8% of total national mortality, with an estimated annual incidence of cancer of approximately 60,960 cases and an annual mortality of over 44,000 persons. This is likely an underestimation. Survival rates for pediatric malignancies are likewise suboptimal although exact figures are unknown since a national cancer registry is unavailable. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides recommendations for the creation of cancer registries to track such data. Here we describe our pharmacist-led, pre-implementation assessment of introducing an enhanced national pediatric cancer registry in Ethiopia. Our assessment project had three specific aims around which the methods were designed: 1) characterization of the current spreadsheet-based tool across participating sites, including which variables were being collected, how these variables compared to standards set by the WHO, and a description of how the data were entered and its completeness; 2) assessment of the perceptions of an enhanced registry from hospital staff; and 3) evaluation of workflow gaps regarding documentation. The hospital staff and leadership have generally positive perceptions of an enhanced pediatric cancer registry, which were further improved by our interactions. The workflow assessment revealed several gaps, which were addressed systematically using a three-phase implementation science approach. The assessment also demonstrated that the existing spreadsheet-based tool was missing WHO-recommended variables and had inconsistent completion due to the workflow gaps. A pediatric oncology summary sheet will be implemented in upcoming trips in patient charts to better summarize the patients' journey starting from diagnosis. This document will be used by the data clerks in an enhanced-spreadsheet to have a more complete data set.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn M Buhlinger
- Department of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina Medical Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jared Borlagdan
- Pharmacy Services, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Atalay M Fentie
- Tikur Anbessa Specialty Hospital, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adam T Bernstein
- Department of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina Medical Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Benjamin Y Urick
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Megan Roberts
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sheila Weitzman
- The Aslan Project, Washington, DC, USA.,The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - David Korones
- The Aslan Project, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thomas B Alexander
- The Aslan Project, Washington, DC, USA.,University of North Carolina, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | | | - Aziza Shad
- The Aslan Project, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ali Mamude Dinkiye
- Tikur Anbessa Specialty Hospital, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Stephen M Clark
- Department of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina Medical Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hayleyesus Adam
- Tikur Anbessa Specialty Hospital, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Hailu
- Tikur Anbessa Specialty Hospital, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Benyam Muluneh
- University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,University of North Carolina, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
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11
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Suzuki S, Horinouchi A, Uozumi S, Matsuyama C, Kamata H, Kaneko A, Yamaguchi M, Okudera H, Tahara M, Kawasaki T. Impact of outpatient pharmacy interventions on management of thyroid patients receiving lenvatinib. SAGE Open Med 2020; 8:2050312120930906. [PMID: 32587691 PMCID: PMC7294491 DOI: 10.1177/2050312120930906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Medical oncologists and pharmacists at our institution established an integrated support program aimed at preventing unnecessary treatment interruption or dose reduction during oral targeted therapy with lenvatinib. Here, we evaluated the benefits of this program in managing patients with thyroid cancer receiving lenvatinib. Methods We retrospectively evaluated thyroid cancer patients who received lenvatinib between May 2015 and March 2017. This descriptive study collected records in which pharmacists contributed to changing doctors' prescriptions and categorized the interventions. Results During the study period, 24 thyroid cancer patients were treated with lenvatinib. Among patients, the incidence of temporary interruption and dose reduction of lenvatinib due to adverse drug reactions was 100% (n = 24) and 83.3% (n = 20), respectively. There were 193 temporary interruptions of lenvatinib due to adverse drug reactions. A total of 501 outpatient pharmacy services were conducted by pharmacists in collaboration with oncologists, of which 125 were interventions (24.9%). In addition, pharmacists conducted 156 telephone follow-up services; 18 (11.5%) of these were to consult an oncologist about a patient's confirmed problems and resulted in the decision to continue observation with no medical intervention while 41 (26.2%) resulted in the oncologist deciding to temporarily interrupt lenvatinib treatment after the report of an adverse drug reaction from the pharmacist. Conclusion Pharmacist interventions in collaboration with medical oncologists improved lenvatinib therapy. Interventions for outpatients were conducted not only in outpatient clinics but also by telephone follow-up, clarifying the importance of continuous management for patients at risk of adverse reactions and misuse of oral medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Suzuki
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Ai Horinouchi
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Shinya Uozumi
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Chihiro Matsuyama
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Hayato Kamata
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Asumi Kaneko
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Masakazu Yamaguchi
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okudera
- Department of Crisis Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Makoto Tahara
- Department of Head and Neck Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Toshikatsu Kawasaki
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, National Research and Development Agency, Kashiwa, Japan
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12
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Alexander M, Jupp J, Chazan G, O'Connor S, Chan A. Global oncology pharmacy response to COVID-19 pandemic: Medication access and safety. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2020; 26:1225-1229. [PMID: 32408842 DOI: 10.1177/1078155220927450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Response, action, and adaptation of the way health services are delivered will impact our ability to provide optimized and continuity of care while acting within resource constraints imposed by COVID-19. Care for patients with cancer is particularly important given increased infection rates and worse outcomes from COVID-19 in this patient population, as well as potential adverse outcomes if treatment pathways need to be compromised. In this commentary, we provide a global oncology pharmacy perspective (including both developed and developing nations) on how COVID-19 has impacted access to and delivery of cancer therapies. This perspective was prepared by the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, with input from national and regional oncology pharmacy practice groups (42 practice leaders from 28 countries and regions) who contributed to a snapshot survey between 10 and 22 April 2020. Specifically, we highlight challenges related to safe handling of hazardous drugs and maintaining high-quality medication safety standards that have impacted various stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marliese Alexander
- Pharmacy Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia.,Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, North Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jennifer Jupp
- International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, North Vancouver, Canada.,Pharmacy Services, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Grace Chazan
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shaun O'Connor
- International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, North Vancouver, Canada.,Pharmacy Department, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Health & Wellbeing Division, Department of Health & Human Services, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexandre Chan
- International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, North Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Darling JO, Raheem F, Carter KC, Ledbetter E, Lowe JF, Lowe C. Evaluation of a Pharmacist Led Oral Chemotherapy Clinic: A Pilot Program in the Gastrointestinal Oncology Clinic at an Academic Medical Center. Pharmacy (Basel) 2020; 8:E46. [PMID: 32244894 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral chemotherapy represents a major patient-centric advancement in therapy convenience. However, ownership of safe and correct administration of these agents requires significant patient education. To address this challenge, an in-person pharmacist-led oral chemotherapy education clinic in gastrointestinal oncology patients within an academic medical center was created and assessed. In this pilot program, a medication-specific quiz was administered to patients before and after education performed by a pharmacist to assess patient understanding of their new oral chemotherapy. A five-question satisfaction survey was also administered at the conclusion of the pharmacist clinic visit. Primary outcome was the percentage difference between pre-and post-education quiz scores. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction, time to treatment initiation, and number of pharmacist interventions. Frequencies and medians were used to describe categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Of the 18 patients analyzed, 50% were male and median age was 59.5 years. Approximately 28% had colon cancer, and 61% were treated with capecitabine. The median post-education scores improved from a pre-education score of 75% to 100%. Overall, seventeen of the eighteen patients responded with “strongly agree” to all satisfaction survey statements. An in-person oncology pharmacist-led oral chemotherapy education session demonstrated an improvement in patients’ understanding of their new oral chemotherapy treatment.
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Abstract
The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Chapter <800> guidelines will be adopted in the U.S. and Canada in 2019, requiring regular surface sampling for antineoplastic drug (AD) surface contamination as a means of environmental surveillance. USP Chapter <800> does not provide guidance on when and where to sample. Research to support the development of such guidance within a broader sampling strategy is limited. This study was conducted to help address some of the underlying information gaps by identifying surfaces pharmacy and nursing staff are likely to contact, presenting a potential dermal exposure risk. Observations were conducted at one regional and one urban clinic, providing insight into inter- and intra-worker variability and between-clinic differences based on size and patient load. Thirteen surfaces in the compounding pharmacies and 14 surfaces in the patient administration were initially selected for video observations. Following a preliminary assessment to eliminate surfaces that were touched infrequently or not at all, five commonly touched surfaces in the compounding pharmacy areas (vials, syringes, IV lines, IV bags, waste bags) and six commonly touched surfaces in the patient administration area (yellow containment bag, IV bag, IV line, patient port, computer workstation) were assessed further. Variability between healthcare staff and clinics in pharmacy staff was low for both the mean frequency and duration of touch to surfaces. Differences between clinics in frequency of contact among nursing staff in patient administration areas were significant (two-way ANOVA) for five of the six surfaces. Duration of contact was not significantly different except for duration of touching the IV pump. These insights will be used to give guidance in selecting locations for a longitudinal surveillance study and help tailor worker training to reduce exposure risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Arnold
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Hannah M Kaup
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Fahey OG, Koth SM, Bergsbaken JJ, Jones HA, Trapskin PJ. Automated parenteral chemotherapy dose-banding to improve patient safety and decrease drug costs. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2019; 26:345-350. [PMID: 31046608 DOI: 10.1177/1078155219846958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To improve patient safety and reduce drug waste through implementation of automated parenteral chemotherapy dose-banding within an electronic health record. METHODS Parenteral chemotherapy dose-rounding practices were transitioned from a manual, pharmacist-driven workflow to an automated process within the electronic health record. Initial medications transitioned included bevacizumab, rituximab, and trastuzumab. Dose-banding tables were built to standardize rounding within a 10% parameter and then subsequently incorporated into the electronic health record after receiving multidisciplinary approval. Following implementation, a retrospective chart review was performed to compare drug and associated cost savings with manual dose-rounding and automated dose-banding. Medication safety improvements were measured by comparing the change in the number of clicks needed for pharmacist verification as well as by evaluation of submissions to our event reporting system. RESULTS After implementing automated parenteral chemotherapy dose-banding, reported medication errors associated with the parenteral chemotherapy rounding process decreased. The number of event submissions related to incorrect rounding decreased from four submissions in the pre-implementation period to zero in the post-implementation period. Automation saved pharmacists at least 9,297 additional clicks and 11,363 additional keystrokes and also led to notable increases in total drug savings as well as drug cost savings. CONCLUSION Overall safety of our parenteral chemotherapy ordering processes within our electronic health record was improved after the implementation of automated dose-banding. By standardizing the administered doses for three chemotherapy agents, we were also able to increase total drug savings and associated drug cost savings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara M Koth
- Department of Pharmacy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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Abstract
Oral anticancer agents, while potentially more convenient and better tolerated than traditional intravenous therapy, come with significant concerns of noncompliance, adverse effects, and high cost. This presents an opportunity for health-care practitioners to develop a method to educate and support patients who are placed on these agents. To provide a detailed example of a currently established oral chemotherapy clinic and provide direction toward setting up a new clinic at other institutions. A description of the establishment of the clinic, how it is run and examples of interventions are provided. Establishment of an oral chemotherapy clinic run by supportive oncology practitioners is feasible and may provide added value to existing oncology care. It can also provide an opportunity to further involve health-care trainees in patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige May
- Department of Pharmacy, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kourtney LaPlant
- Department of Pharmacy, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ashley McGee
- Department of Pharmacy, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, FL, USA
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