The Neuro-Oncology Program at Carlo Fidani Regional Cancer Centre, Trillium Health Partners (THP), is the third largest program in Ontario providing specialty glioma care within the Mississauga, Halton and Central West regions for people living with malignant primary brain tumours. The neuro-oncology care services include surgical intervention, radiation therapy, systemic therapy, symptom management, and end-of-life care. The incidence of primary brain tumours in Canada is 25 new cases/100,000 population per year. Despite active research and advancement in glioma care, people living with primary brain tumours have high healthcare needs comparing to general population. It is estimated that the average brain tumor patient will make 52 visits to their specialty health care team within the first year of diagnosis. With growing regional population, improvement in survival rates, and limitations of health care resources, the quality improvement (QI) remains a strategic priority for the Neuro-Oncology Program, THP. Dedicated neuro-oncology registered nurse (RN) and nurse practitioner (NP) roles are integral to implementing and maintaining a high quality health care systems through innovation and policy development. The goal of neuro-oncology nursing team is to improve quality of health services by facilitating timely access to specialty care and creating pathways for provision of effective and efficient integrated care. The following QI project will result in positive outcomes for patients/families, providers, and health system.
Project aim: to reduce readmission rates by 50% by January 1, 2025 by integrating full scope RN and NP roles in Neuro-Oncology Program. Methods: Model of Improvement. Outcome measure: readmission rates.
