Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: The global impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented. Specific recommendations for the management of neuroendocrine disorders in the pandemic were rapidly released by Endocrine experts. To comply with COVID rules, NET patients, due to attend the endocrine unit in March 2020 for Somatostatin analogue therapy, were rapidly identified. 25 vulnerable patients had urgent domiciliary administration arranged. Other patients were taught to self-inject. Postal surveys were sent to these patients with prepaid envelopes, 3 months after the implementation. Patient satisfaction; administration of injections; side effects and the desired place of treatment following the pandemic were assessed. The questions included multiple choice satisfaction ratings, yes or no answers and free text areas for patients to elaborate on their answers and experience.

Results: 68 % of patients responded. Patients were satisfied with the information provided. All respondents had their injection given by a homecare or community nurse and 94% of respondents had no issues with the timeliness of injections delivered in the community. 14 out of 17 patients were either very satisfied or satisfied by their new treatment regime. Frequency of bowel related side effects was rare and the majority of patients had no new side effects. 75% of patients said they would rather continue home treatments during the uncertainty of the pandemic. These were justified by fears of the first wave and the convenience of home treatment. Some patients however still opted for hospital visits due to the familiarity of endocrine nurses and ability to see their doctor face to face.

Conclusion: This study has shown NET patients adapted quickly to the changes in delivery of Somatostatin analogues and provided a patient perspective on domiciliary treatment in the pandemic. Patients were satisfied and happy to receive treatment at home post pandemic. This could impact positively on efficiency in the Endocrine unit.