A comparison of inpatient and outpatient ASCT

Outpatient high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has been shown to be feasible in terms of physical morbidity and mor tality outcomes, but few data exist on the psychosocial impact of deliverin g such aggressive therapy in this manner. The purpose of this observational study was to compare effects of inpatient (n = 20) and outpatient ( n = 21 ) modes of care on physical status, psychological wellbeing, quality of lif e, personal finances and caregiver burden. Most patients n ere treated acco rding to their preference for inpatient or outpatient care. Those choosing outpatient care were screened for eligibility according to established crit eria for ambulatory management. Measures were taken at baseline, then at da ys 4-6, 12-16 and 30 post ASCT, Results showed that overall, the psychologi cal, physical, social and financial outcomes of the outpatient ASCT group w ere comparable, to or better than inpatients. Factors that seem to be impor tant for successful outpatient management are previous experience with canc er treatment, a satisfying quality of life, physical well-being, patient's preference for a particular mode of care and physical proximity to the trea tment centre, The study results suggest that outpatient ASCT is an efficien t, effective and acceptable form of care for motivated patients and caregiv ers who have the physical and psychological capability and desire to receiv e cancer treatment in this manner.