Implementation of a Personalized Risk Model for Lymph Node Metastasis in Endometrial Carcinoma: Healthcare Providers' Perspectives on Use, Barriers, and Facilitators

Abstract

Background

The ENDORISK model estimates the risk of lymph node metastases (LNM) in endometrial carcinoma (EC) patients using preoperative clinical variables and biomarkers. This qualitative study investigated healthcare providers' (HCP) perspectives on the use of the model and barriers and facilitators for clinical implementation.

Methods

Eight focus group interviews were performed among HCPs. A semi-structured interview guide was used based on the Grol and Wensing implementation model.

Results

Focus groups included gynecologists, residents of gynecology, pathologists, radiation oncologists, and a nurse specialist (n = 41). ENDORISK was deemed supportive for counseling of patients and shared decision-making for optimal surgical and adjuvant treatment. Barriers for implementation were difficulty in explaining the model and risk percentages to patients, differences in preoperative diagnostic tools used per hospital, and use of the model with the sentinel node procedure. Facilitators were a clear guideline for using the model with a predefined risk cutoff and making the model easily understandable for patients. A 10% risk cutoff was considered clinically relevant for lymph node assessment.

Conclusion

HCP found ENDORISK use in clinical practice supportive for patient counseling. Future implementation should focus on a user-friendly interface, a cohesive guideline, and training to aid efficient use and counseling of patients.