Patients with pre-existing serious mental illnesses face significantly worse cancer survival rates. They are often diagnosed at later stages and are less likely to receive guideline-concordant treatment. This disparity highlights a critical need for improved care strategies.
As cancer pharmacists, we are uniquely positioned to advocate for these vulnerable patients. Our role extends beyond understanding common drug interactions; it involves building rapport, offering unbiased advice, and proactively addressing challenges in care. This includes identifying possible adherence issues, and providing tailored side effect management options.
To support these patients and improve their outcomes, it's essential to appreciate the nuances of their debilitating neurological conditions. This will give hints about the approaches to adherence and toxicity management required to work with these individuals. The aim is to give you a better appreciation of our complex patients, and some practical strategies to build a comprehensive plan to support these vulnerable patients and improve their outcomes.