Feasibility of an integrative multidimensional palliative care intervention for patients with pulmonary fibrosis (MuST-PF)

Intro: Patients with progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and their partners face unmet palliative care needs. Hence, the MUltidimensional Symptom management in Trajectory Pulmonary Fibrosis (MuST-PF) intervention was developed, comprising a multidimensional assessment, advance care planning (ACP) and structured multidimensional symptom management (SM). This study assesses the feasibility and usability of the MuST-PF in an outpatient clinic. Method: This mixed methods feasibility study started February 2023, ending patient inclusion in February 2024. A group of healthcare professionals (HCPs) was trained to integrate the MuST-PF in PF care. Feasibility and acceptability of were assessed with notes, reflections and interviews with patients, partners (P&P) and HCPs. <bold>Results:</bold> We present preliminary results of 12 P&P and 5 HCPs. P&P appreciated the multidimensional assessment and ACP, and valued the attention towards partners. While P&P found the questionnaires acceptable, symptom follow-up was inadequate. Multidimensional SM primarily targeted physical symptoms, despite a high burden of psychological symptoms and social and existential concerns. HCPs appreciated the supportive tools for providing palliative care, but their focus was primarily on ACP. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> The MuST-PF was acceptable for P&P and HCPs, although not delivered as intended. Symptom monitoring, ACP and the information tool are feasible. Multidimensional SM requires additional implementation strategies focusing on knowledge, competences and behavior change of HCPs. The next steps involve raising awareness through establishing a shared vision on palliative care and interactive learning programs.