Researchers of a pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a community-based advanced nurse practitioner (ANP)-led model for managing adults in Ireland who are undergoing treatment with oral anti-cancer medications (OAMs). This study tested the model over a four-month period with 37 patients, focusing on assessing patient safety, cost-effectiveness, and acceptability among patients and healthcare staff. The results indicated high patient and staff satisfaction, successful patient safety measures, and the ability to capture healthcare costs effectively. This suggests that the ANP-led model could potentially shift OAM care from hospital to community settings.

The pilot study also explored the practical aspects of implementing this new care model in a community setting, including patient recruitment and retention, which proved successful with high consent rates and minimal attrition. Based on these positive outcomes, the study supports the viability of conducting a larger, definitive trial to further test this innovative approach to cancer care. This shift could lead to enhanced patient convenience, reduced hospital load, and potentially lower overall healthcare costs.

Reference: Richmond JP, Kelly MG, Johnston A, et al. A community-based advanced nurse practitioner-led integrated oncology care model for adults receiving oral anticancer medication: a pilot study. Pilot Feasibility Stud. 2024;10(1):46. doi: 10.1186/s40814-024-01461-z.