Implementation of a Formalized Evaluation and Planning Tool to Improve Pediatric Oncology Outcomes in Kenya

Abstract

Survival from pediatric cancers in low-middle-income countries is often very low compared to that of high-income countries due to multifactorial etiologies, including late presentation, delayed diagnosis, difficulty with accessing health care, drug unavailability and treatment abandonment. The St. Jude Pediatric Oncology Facility Integrated Local Evaluation Tool (PrOFILE) was developed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual institutions, as well as whole countries. Following the completion of data analysis from Kenyan institutions, the first PrOFILE hybrid in-person and virtual workshop was held. Multi-disciplinary stakeholders prioritized recommendations for improving care and developed smart objectives to accomplish identified goals over the following 2 years. Strengths and weaknesses of conducting a hybrid global workshop were identified.