Evaluation of the “Shared Community Follow‐up” after a germ cell tumour—A novel initiative for remote cancer follow‐up enhanced by online patient‐reported outcome measures

Objective:

Replying to germ cell tumour patients' needs, we implemented “Shared Community Follow‐up”—a collaborative initiative, enabling remote delivery of specialist cancer care across large geographical areas. Blood, radiological investigations and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) are completed remotely and integrated within the electronic patient records for specialist review without patients requiring appointments. We describe the service evaluation estimating the feasibility, safety and acceptability of this initiative versus traditional Standard Follow‐up.

Methods:

This cross‐sectional evaluation estimated feasibility (uptake, adherence) and safety (via missed appointments, timeliness, cancellations) using routinely collected service process data. An acceptability questionnaire, evaluating patient satisfaction, was administered to 91 patients.

Results:

The new service is feasible. Across 2 years (2014–2016), uptake increased 54% (N = 123 to N = 270) and only 4.8% (N = 13) of patients were non‐adherent. Fewer missed/cancelled investigations (N = 39, 5.9% vs. N = 566, 85.5%), timelier investigations (seven vs. 14 timely investigations) and equal relapse detection suggest its safety. PROMs replaced 3 appointments/patient. Patients were as satisfied with both services (3.4/4 vs. 3.6/4).

Conclusion:

New follow‐up services, with investigations completed remotely and shared between community providers and cancer centres, offer an alternative to traditional appointments with advantages for patients and the National Health Service.