Stakeholders' perceptions of a community‐based advanced nurse practitioner‐led integrated oncology care model for adults receiving oral anti‐cancer medication—A qualitative study

Oral anti-cancer medications (OAMs) are increasingly prescribed in oncology, and although administered at home, ongoing monitoring generally requires the patient to attend an acute hospital. With the requirement to provide safe yet convenient care and to increase hospital capacity, the potential exists to transition this cohort of patients to the community to be assessed by oncology health care professionals (HCPs). The onset of COVID-19 facilitated this planned transition. Objective The primary objective was to understand stakeholders' perceptions of a community-based advanced nurse practitioner (ANP)-led integrated OAM care model for adults. Methods Qualitative data from interviews and focus groups were obtained from 33 individuals; either service users who attended ANP-led OAM clinics or stakeholders involved in OAM care. Data were subsequently analysed using thematic analysis. Results Four themes were identified and included reflection on pre-COVID-19 system, role of ANP in current OAM care, importance of robust communication and infrastructural requirements for transition to an integrated OAM care model. Conclusion This study demonstrated that patients and HCPs perceived the proposal positively. They identified the ANP as the appropriate HCP to care for this cohort and the importance of communication and strategic planning for transitioning this model of care to the community setting.