THE IMPACT OF PATIENT NAVIGATION ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS UNDERGOING DEFINITIVE RADIOTHERAPY IN THE PUBLIC HEALTH SYSTEM IN BELO HORIZONTE (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Cancer is Brazil's second leading cause of death, demanding comprehensive and timely treatment approaches. However, challenges in accessing and incorporating new technologies in radiotherapy treatment (RT) have led to delays and hindered patient outcomes. Patient Navigation (PN) has emerged as a potential solution to address these challenges and enhance cancer patient care, particularly in vulnerable populations. To explore and present unpublished data from an original project regarding the role of PN in impacting the quality of life of patients undergoing definitive RT in the public health system of Belo Horizonte, through scores such as Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form, comparing the same group of patients before and after PN. This pilot study is a prospective, non-randomized clinical trial conducted in collaboration with the Global Cancer Institute/MGH Harvard University in a public teaching hospital. The study evaluates the time from diagnosis to RT initiation and secondary outcomes such as treatment duration, access barriers, and patient satisfaction, with significant improvements in patient outcomes. There was an increase in the median SCNS-SF score from 98.5 to 117.5 (p= 0.002) from inclusion in the project to follow-up. Furthermore, PN positively influenced the reduction of time between diagnosis and treatment, health-conscious behaviors, including regular health check-ups (53.8% vs. 88.5%, p<0.01), healthier eating habits (67.3%), and sun protection (36.5% vs. 62.7%, p=0.008). PN presents a valuable approach to bridging gaps in cancer care, reducing disparities, and enhancing patient experiences. This analysis findings underscore the importance of Patient Navigation in optimizing cancer treatment outcomes, promoting timely care, and ultimately improving patients' quality of life. While the study has inherent limitations, its contribution to improving cancer care for SUS patients is evident, highlighting the potential impact of addressing social disparities.