Introduction of an allied health professional led clinic for paediatric neuro oncology: A pilot within Southampton Children's Hospital

ABSTRACT

Objectives and Background: Robbie's Rehab provides specialist neuro-rehabilitation for children diagnosed with brain and spinal tumours under the care of Southampton Children's Hospital. Having a brain tumour and its treatment can have a wide impact on a child and their families' quality of life and return to "normal life" with limited time to explore these within standard clinics. A pilot supplementary clinic to focus on these aspects was initiated by a physiotherapist, psychologist and nurse specialist, primarily reviewing non-medical concerns, supporting return to school and home life. Methods: Review of Prospective data collected for patients attending the Robbie's Rehab Multidisciplinary clinic October 2020- February 2021. Results: 22 patients were offered an appointment, 2 declined to attend. Due to COVID only 1 patient attended face to face, the remainder via Attend Anywhere video consultation. 16 patients had a diagnosis of a low grade tumour and 4 patients had high grade tumours. All patients had completed oncology treatment. 3 common areas of concern were identified by patients and parents;fatigue, educational difficulties and emotional difficulties. Advice and support was provided during clinic where appropriate and referrals to other services were made (play support, endocrine referral). Additional interventions occurred outside the clinic from the Robbie's Rehab Team (physio assessment, psychology support, cognitive assessment). Post clinic parental questionnaire completed by 18/20 families. 11/18 parents rated the clinic as helpful and 7/18 parents rated the clinic as extremely helpful. 100% would definitely recommend attending this clinic to other parents. Conclusion: The addition of a quality of life focused MDT clinic run by members of the extended neurooncology team has been effective in improving the patient and parent experience of life after oncology treatment.