Adherence to Oral Anticancer Medications: Evolving Interprofessional Roles and Pharmacist Workforce Considerations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Systems Science

Background:

• Interprofessional care is crucial in outpatient oncology for enhancing patient outcomes and minimizing adverse effects.
• Traditionally, anticancer medications were administered in clinics, but oral anticancer medications (OAMs) are increasingly preferred for home use.
• The shift to self-administered OAMs empowers patients but introduces adherence challenges compared to intravenous therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a qualitative systems evaluation framework for understanding interprofessional collaboration in cancer care.
• To examine the social interactionism surrounding the use of intravenous and oral anticancer medications.
• To identify patient, organizational, and social system factors influencing care delivery using Kaplan's 4Cs (communication, care, control, context).

Main Methods:

• A qualitative systems evaluation approach is proposed.
• Theoretical frameworks for interdisciplinary team collaboration and systems science underpin the evaluation.
• The study focuses on social interactionism and Kaplan's 4Cs within patient, organizational, and social systems.

Main Results:

• The conceptualization facilitates preparation for workforce changes in cancer management.
• It highlights the increasing utilization of oncology pharmacists within interprofessional teams.
• Identifies key considerations for optimizing patient and clinician roles in OAM management.

Conclusions:

• A systems-based approach is essential for navigating the complexities of modern cancer care, particularly with oral anticancer medications.
• Effective interprofessional collaboration, supported by frameworks like the 4Cs, is vital for managing self-administered therapies.
• Healthcare systems must adapt to evolving treatment modalities and roles, including the expanded role of oncology pharmacists.