OGC SO29 - Patient perceptions survey on the best timed oesophago-gastric dietetic pathway

Abstract Background It is well established that patients with oesophago-gastric (OG) cancer often present with malnutrition and impact symptoms such as anorexia, dysphagia and abdominal symptoms. Dietetic input is imperative in assessing and managing these symptoms early to improve outcome measures such as nutritional status, clinical outcomes and quality of life. A service evaluation was conducted to explore patient perceptions of early dietetic intervention in the Greater Manchester OG two week wait (TWW) pathway. There is no known prior research exploring the aims of this project. The results provide a novel insight into patient perceptions. Method A mixed methods survey using Microsoft Forms including open and close-ended questions was completed using transcription of responses via telephone consultation for 8 participants. For multiple choice responses, quantitative analysis was undertaken utilising Microsoft Forms analytics. Thematic analysis was completed with the use of computer assisted qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS). Results 100% of respondents strongly agreed that receiving information about eating and drinking during investigations was important to them. 100% of respondents disagreed that dietetic advice was difficult to understand and follow. 75% of respondents felt dietetic input to be helpful in managing nutritional impact symptoms. 25% of participants responded neutrally. 100% of respondents felt their individual needs and concerns were addressed and would recommend the service to friends/family (88% strongly agreed; 12% agreed respectively). Conclusion Dietetic input was viewed positively by service users undergoing the OG TWW pathway. Patients reported feeling reassured, and valued communication, accessibility, and a personal approach. Some patients experienced delays in receiving prescribed nutritional supplements. Consistency of nutritional information requires improvement across the multidisciplinary team. Unfamiliarity with dietetic input limits the ability of participants to provide perspectives on service improvement. These findings suggest that specialist nutritional assessment and advice is beneficial to patients. Future research should be conducted to explore the long-term impact of early dietetic interventions on health outcomes in OG cancer patients.