The Use and Knowledge of Validated Geriatric Assessment Instruments Among US Community Oncologists

The use of a standardized geriatric assessment (GA) to inform treatment decisions in older adults with cancer improves quality of life, reduces treatment-related toxicity, and is guideline-recommended. This study aimed to assess community oncologists' knowledge and utilization of GAs.

Between September 2019 and February 2020, practicing US-based oncologists were invited to attend live meetings and complete web-based surveys designed to collect information on treatment decision making and various practice-based challenges in oncology care.

Among the 349 oncologists surveyed, 74% practiced in a community setting. Sixty percent did not use a formal GA to inform treatment decisions for any of their older patients; the most common reasons for not using a GA were "Too cumbersome to incorporate into routine practice" (44%) and "Adds no value beyond the comprehensive history and physical exam" (36%). Validated GA instruments used in routine clinical practice included: Mini-Mental State Exam (54%), Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (23%), Cancer and Aging Research Group toxicity tool (12%), and Chemotherapy Risk Assessment Scale for High-Age Patients tool (9%). Nineteen percent of oncologists were not aware of any validated GA instruments. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status and comorbidities were the most frequently used assessment factors to inform treatment decisions (88% and 73%, respectively).

Many oncologists have not incorporated GA tools because of perceptions that GAs are difficult to implement or do not add any value. Increasing education of the benefits of GA-directed therapy could help to increase GA utilization among community oncologists.