Article Text
Abstract
Background Initially it was identified that we had curative patients requiring ongoing support once treatment had ended. An initial group was running pre-COVID. This poster represents post-COVID, re-starting the group. This happened with support from a patient who needed this support.
Aim To enable patients with a curative or stable cancer diagnosis to meet in a supportive group environment.
Method Hospice psychotherapist and OT met with our patient to discuss how the group would run, very much led by her own experience of breast cancer treatment. We also considered how the group ran pre-COVID. The group sessions consist of education e.g. fatigue, sleep, anxiety management, alongside vital peer support. The group is advertised via our out-patient services, our website, and through local hospital specialist services. Also by word of mouth from group attendees.
Results This group is a life-line for many patients who otherwise would not meet criteria for support from other health care services. We support not only patients with curative intent, but patients with stable disease. Success is seen in the numbers who attend monthly (average 10–15), and from regular positive feedback, gained from our hospice feedback forms. This group allows patients to attend long-term, this reduces the need for other hospice services and allows timely re-referral if their situation changes.
Conclusion To continue the group as there is a need to provide this on-going support for as long as the patients need this.