Collaboration Pharmacien Oncologue : Etat des Lieux et Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: Pharmacists are involved in the care of cancer patients, who are often undergoing specific treatments (radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, but also support or end-of-life treatments) in collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Materials and methods: A survey of 100 pharmacists was carried out in May 2024. We put a questionnaire online with several items aimed at evaluating collaboration between pharmacists and oncologists. Results: Study population made up of women (89%), under 30 years of age (59%), faculty of pharmacy in Sétif (58%), place of practice (EHS/CAC 21%, CHU 27%, EPH 09%, dispensary 36%), wilaya of practice (Sétif 53%; Algiers 12%, Batna 3%, Constantine 7%). General pharmacists 52%, with experience (0- 05 years) 71%. 84% had knowledge of cancerology, 51% had attended CME courses, 61% considered that pharmacists played a key role in the cancer patient's treatment pathway (dispensing of medicines 67%, validation of protocols 52%, monitoring of side effects 51%; ETP 54%). For their part, retail pharmacists consider that they have a role to play in the treatment of cancer patients (advice on anti-cancer drugs and supportive care 76%, management of side effects 60%, analysis of drug interactions 49%, FTE 61%, monitoring of biological parameters 22%). 80% of pharmacists consider that the oncologist-pharmacist relationship is essential for better patient care, but only 14% are very satisfied with this relationship, 37% satisfied and 17% non-existent. It105 should be noted that 95% wanted to strengthen the relationship, almost 28% rarely had the opportunity to discuss patients' cases with oncologists, 12% frequently, 06% always, in 79% by telephone, 32% meetings, 17% RCP. The greatest obstacle to collaboration was the lack of communication 66%, limited access to patients' files 57%, clinical pharmacy is a new speciality 44%, lack of up-to-date knowledge among pharmacists 40%. Solutions: 72% suggested creating RCPs that included pharmacists, 73% integration of clinical pharmacists into medical oncology departments, 66% organisation of interdisciplinary training, 54% creation of standardised protocols, 44% use of digital health technology. Discussion/ Conclusion: according to the results of our survey, pharmacists want to be involved in patient management but they are faced with obstacles. The oncologist-pharmacist relationship is fairly satisfactory and the proposals for improving it are first and foremost the integration of pharmacists into medical oncology departments and RCPs.