15 An evaluation of palliative care nurse prescribing: a mixed methods study in uganda

Abstract

. Oncology patients from Outpatient areas . Radiotherapy treatment areas . Oak Road Treatment Centre. . Community Macmillan direct referrals A bespoke proforma was completed after each consultation by the treating clinician. 413 ambulatory patient reviews took place over a 6 month period. An in depth analysis has been conducted of 236 new patient referrals between January and June 2017. Overall results show a significant impact on patient outcomes, with 21% avoided admissions, 25% facilitated early discharge and 43% avoided escalation of symptoms/GP review.Data analysis remains on going to assess readmission statistics; in particular an analysis of early OAU discharges, facilitated by the ESC clinic review of low risk neutropenic patients.The service currently operates two clinics a week on Monday and Thursday afternoons. A business case has been submitted proposing service expansion to operate daily clinics.As the first cancer centre to implement this service, we have welcomed oncology teams from other centres across the UK, enhancing practice elsewhere.