Using quality improvement frameworks to develop, implement, and evaluate a novel ambulatory oncology pharmacy practice model: A descriptive example.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the application of the Plan-Do-Study-Act quality improvement framework in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a novel pharmacy practice model in ambulatory oncology.

Summary: Four iterations of the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework were completed to develop a patient-facing, pharmacist-led ambulatory oncology clinic program. The clinic provided care to patients with prostate cancer on oral anticancer therapy. Metrics were collected throughout all stages of development to inform target processes for improvement. The pharmacist saw 136 patients between July 2019 and January 2023, resulting in 464 total encounters. The pharmacist provided clinical interventions and counseling to patients newly starting on oral anticancer therapy and those established on therapy using a longitudinal model of care.

Conclusion: Application of the Plan-Do-Study-Act quality improvement framework to a novel pharmacy practice model supported the development, evaluation, and sustainability of a pharmacist-led ambulatory oncology clinic providing care to patients with prostate cancer on oral anticancer therapy.