Published Paper Details:

This feasibility study investigates the integration of daily Quality of Life (QoL) assessments into routine clinical oncology practice. With the recognition of cancer treatment's multifaceted impact on patients, extending beyond conventional survival metrics, there is a growing emphasis on evaluating QoL as an essential parameter. The study aims to assess the feasibility and benefits of daily assessments, focusing on acceptance and adherence by healthcare providers, practical incorporation into electronic health records, and potential impacts on patient outcomes. Using a mixed-methods approach over a six-month period, the study collects quantitative data from daily QoL assessments and qualitative insights through interviews and surveys. Conducted at the Government General Hospital in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India, the study involves 15 patients, with two dropouts. The average patient age is 57, and the majority are female, diagnosed with various cancers undergoing different treatments. Results indicate that the QoL assessments, primarily utilizing the QLQ-C30 questionnaire, were completed by patients at scheduled appointments with an average completion time of 10.3 minutes. Physician assessments showed a significant improvement in perceived knowledge of patients' daily activities from baseline to the third visit. The QoL summary was deemed helpful by physicians in improving communication and obtaining essential information from patients without disrupting their routine. In conclusion, this feasibility study suggests that standardizing daily QoL evaluations in outpatient cancer clinics is practical and well-received by both patients and healthcare providers. The simplicity of the questionnaire and rapid accessibility of findings make it feasible to integrate into daily routines, potentially reshaping oncology care towards a more patient-centered and holistic approach.