CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF THE BEST-SUPPORTIVE CARE CLINIC FOR PATIENTS WITH HIGH GRADE GLIOMA

Abstract AIMS Up to 20% of newly diagnosed patients with high-grade glioma may not benefit from active treatment. A best supportive care clinic (BSC-C) offers review with a neurosurgeon and clinical nurse specialist (CNS). A previous audit showed that only a third of patients were reviewed, and median survival was 67 days. This study aims to review the uptake of BSC-C, and assess its clinical value in supporting patients. METHODS A retrospective review of the electronic patient records between January 2024 and May 2024 of patients referred to the BSC-C was analysed. Data collected included patient demographics, diagnosis, time between diagnosis and BSC-C date, clinic outcome, and patient and carer feedback. RESULTS 29 patients were offered a BSC-C appointment between January 2024 and May 2024. Of these, 72.4% (n = 21) of appointments were accepted. The average time between imaging diagnosis and MDT decision for best support- ive care and BSC-C appointment were 11.8 and 13.7 days respectively. Eighty six percent (18/21) were conducted face-to-face, with the remainder via telephone. A further 32 follow-up telephone calls occurred after the initial appointment (15 patients, range 1 – 6), and resulted in 29 interventions (palliative care referral, corticosteroid doses alterations etc). A patient and carer questionnaire indicated patients benefit. CONCLUSION The BSC-C captures palliative neuro-oncology patients who might otherwise be discharged to the community with little insight into their diagnosis or clinical advice on their symptoms. Appointments and follow-up calls are accepted by most patients, and offer specialised advice, and a point-of-contact during a time of uncertainty.