Reduction in Abandonment of Treatment Via the Creation of Satellite Clinics
In Honduras, abandonment of therapy has been a major cause of mortality among children with cancer. Abandonment is a complex phenomena with multiple causes. Socioeconomic and cultural factors play a major role. One early investigation showed that the distance between the paediatric oncology unit, in Tegucigalpa and patients'home was independently associated with abandonment. In an attempt to reduce abandonment and increase the retention of patients on treatment protocols, Honduran physicians with support of St. Jude Children's Hospital, My Child Matters Program and Honduran Foundation Against Childhood Cancer (FACC) are implementing a project to decentralize paediatric cancer care in Honduras. This initiative, led by the Honduran Foundation Against Childhood Cancer, consists of establishing partnerships with general hospitals in underserved areas to create paediatric oncology units.
Main Objectives of the Project
- Reduce treatment abandonment
- Optimize the available resources for paediatric cancer care
- Improve the quality of life for patients and their families
- Monitor the intake of oral medication
- Optimize treatment delivery protocols
- Train nurses and other health care providers in the handling, application and management of chemotherapy
- Optimize data collection
- Develop an internet-based communications network between the national hospital and satellite clinics
- Develop campaigns towards early detection of childhood cancer
- Establish national guidelines for the management of paediatric oncology
- Create FACC's affiliates in the communities around satellite clinics to support sustainability of services
Benefits of the Project
- Avoid extended separation of the child and family from their communities
- Improve school attendance
- Avoid disruption of the family, saving on transport and living expenses
- Improve ability of parents to maintain work attendance and thus retaining employment
