A multi-method review of home-based chemotherapy
J M Evans1,2, M Qiu2,3, M MacKinnon2
1Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
European Journal of Cancer Care
|November 8, 2015
Summary
Home-based chemotherapy is a safe, patient-centered alternative to hospital care. This study provides evidence and recommendations for developing effective home chemotherapy programs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Healthcare Delivery
- Patient Care
Background:
- Growing need for accessible and patient-centered cancer treatment.
- Limitations of traditional hospital-based chemotherapy delivery models.
- Increasing interest in home-based healthcare services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence on home-based chemotherapy.
- To explore existing models for delivering chemotherapy at home.
- To provide recommendations for improving home chemotherapy programs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of 54 papers.
- Review of seven international home-based chemotherapy programs.
- Two case studies conducted in Ontario, Canada.
Main Results:
- Home-based chemotherapy is a safe and patient-centered alternative.
- Detailed information on services, eligibility, patient experiences, and delivery structures.
- Identified common challenges in home chemotherapy programs.
Conclusions:
- Home-based chemotherapy offers a viable and preferred alternative for many patients.
- Recommendations focus on patient-centeredness, provider training, safety, and program management.
- Findings can inform the development of evidence-based home chemotherapy models.
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