COVID-19 Pandemic Neuro-Oncology Consultation Settings: Ensuring Services Address Patient Preferences

AIMS: The Covid-19 pandemic expanded the use of virtual consultations (telephone (T) or video (V)). Moving forward, Neuro-Oncology consultation settings require tailoring to optimally meet patient needs. This project aimed to evaluate patient perceptions of consultation settings to optimise service planning and ongoing incorporation of T and V options for patients with high grade brain tumours. METHOD: From February 2022, patient perceptions on consultation settings were prospectively sought on follow-up/on- treatment appointments in Kent Oncology Centre. The peer-reviewed anonymised survey explored rationale for consultation setting, travelling (time, distance and arrangements) , satisfaction with appointment parameters (amount/ clarity of information, patient perception of support, assessment of symptoms and ability to ask questions) and setting preferences moving forward. RESULTS: The majority of consultations were F2F, 1/3 had teleconsultations. 2/5 of patients were given a choice of consultation setting. Reason for teleconsultation included geographical distance, longer journey time, consultant decision, disability, work and active Covid-19 infection. All settings recorded good levels of satisfaction, however the majority (>2/3) would recommend F2F appointments to others for scan results, pre-chemotherapy/on-radiotherapy checks, specialist nurse reviews and end of treatment reviews. CONCLUSION: Despite reassuring levels of satisfaction for both F2F and non-F2F appointments, F2F setting remains preferred regardless of the aim of the consultation. For a selected number of patients, teleconsultation has advantages due to geographical constraints, however the option of F2F consultations remains important and patients should be involved in these decisions.