Development and Monitoring Evaluation of the Clinical Pathway for post-operative care in patients with thyroid cancer in integrative medical center

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a clinical pathway (CP) for post-operative care in patients with thyroid cancer in integrative medical center setting, specifically targeting the improvement of quality of life (QoL) and clinical management standardization. The CP was refined through a modified Delphi method and subsequently monitored in a clinical setting.Methods: The CP model was based on an analysis of medical records of thyroid cancer patients from July 2022 to February 2024. A time-task matrix was established, categorizing tasks by timeline (pre-operative, operation day, post-operative) and clinical activities (KM (Korean Medicine) evaluation, treatment, activity, diet, education). The draft CP model was validated using the modified Delphi method. Finally, the CP was pilot-tested in a clinical environment monitoring indicators such as CP application rate, completion rate, QoL, and satisfaction levels. To evaluate the CP, THYCA-QoL questionnaire was used, and pain levels were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).Results: The final CP model showed 81.8% application rate and 100% completion rate during the monitoring period. Results of THYCA-QoL questionnaire showed significant improvement in various aspects, including neuromuscula, oral and throat, and psychological issues. The NRS indicated a 48.1% reduction in neck pain intensity after post-CP application. Both patient and medical staff satisfaction increased following the CP's applicationConclusions: The integrative CP model for post-operative care in thyroid cancer patients improved QoL and reduced pain, demonstrating its potential as a standardized tool of integrative cancer healthcare settings. Future studies should refine the model and expand its use to validate efficacy and optimize quality of care.