SURC (Symptom and Urgent Review Clinic) in oncology practice: clinical utility and application in a regional setting—a retrospective observational study

PURPOSE: To assess the benefit of the new 'SURC' model, allowing patients having systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) to be seen acutely for assessment of adverse events, as well as scheduled early review in their treatment course. It also assessed the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on this service. METHODS: Data was collected prospectively between 2020 and 2023 and then analysed retrospectively. The clinic was implemented at Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre (BRICC). It also included two outreach sites: Primary outcomes were the number of interactions by patients with SURC; secondary outcomes included the number of admissions, type of cancer involved, and reasons for contacting SURC. RESULTS: This study demonstrated benefit for patients with cancer from a regional area who presented with acute complications of their treatment. Presentations requiring hospital admissions and further assessment in ED were lower compared to the pre-SURC period, with most patients being treated comprehensively in the SURC environment. The study demonstrated the utility of early SACT review as there was a decrease in the number of treatment disruptions due to early recognition of complications of each patient's regimen. There was also a gradual increase in patient presentations to the clinic during the duration of the study, reflecting the growing awareness and confidence in the service from both healthcare providers and patients alike. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the benefit of the novel SURC model to patients living in regional areas with cancer who either develop acute complications or are routinely reviewed early during their course of treatment. Although this study was limited to only one public health service provider, we feel this new proactive paradigm for acute cancer care will become increasingly adopted across Australia, given its proven ability to look after patients undergoing SACT more efficiently in addition to reducing hospital admissions.