ABSTRACT
Current sessions of multidisciplinary team meetings (MDMs) have several limitations, including increased costs and duration, as well as limited discussion time for each case. To address these issues, we have developed a computer application called OCTOPUS, which helps manage the patients' list for MDMs. The application allows for the generation of automatic MDM decisions based on predetermined criteria filled in by the patient's doctor and algorithms that comply with the latest oncology guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. These decisions must be validated by the MDM faculty members. In cases of nonagreement or complex cases, the application proposes a "face-to-face MDM." The internal mailing system connects all members and allows for the request of a second opinion regarding pathology or imaging results. Initial results suggest that this ergonomic tool provides more flexibility in time management and improved uniformity in selecting cases that would most benefit from face-to-face MDMs.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Assessment of patient satisfaction helps to guide hospital strategies concerning optimal patient management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the satisfaction of cancer patients hospitalised at Fez university hospital, to study the various components of satisfaction and to integrate the patient in quality of care improvement policies. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted in two voluntary wards of the hospital. An anonymous standardized questionnaire was administered to patients hospitalised for cancer surgery or treatment. RESULTS: 87.1% of patients reported that they were very satisfied with their hospitalisation, while 12.9% rated their stay as acceptable. 98.4% would recommend the hospital to their relatives. In contrast, 67.2% of patients surveyed considered that the cost of their stay was too expensive. CONCLUSION: The majority of items were declared as "Very satisfactory" by the patients. They represent a challenge to be maintained in the future: ward reception, comfortable accommodation, the behaviour and availability of staff, the doctor-patient relationship, respect for patient, the explanations provided concerning the health problem and treatment, psychological support and pain management. For items reported to be less satisfactory, recommendations should be implemented concerning the admissions office, administrative formalities on admission, the information provided at the time of discharge, quality of meals, development of nursing skills and dietary advice.
