Impact of executive functioning on health-related quality of life of pediatric brain tumor survivors.

Background: Brain tumor survivors are at risk for significant late effects following treatment completion that may adversely impact health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The current study examines the relationship between executive functioning (EF) and HRQOL in pediatric brain tumor survivors within a longitudinal framework. We hypothesized that early deficits in EF would be related to less optimal HRQOL in this population.

Case Report: Ventilator weaning, tracheostomy decannulation and noninvasive ventilation in an adolescent with autism spectrum disorder and new onset spinal cord injury.

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a cause of significant psychosocial stress not only to the individual with SCI but also to their family. This is compounded when an individual with a new SCI has premorbid behavioral and medical conditions. For individuals requiring long term positive pressure ventilation, transition to noninvasive ventilation (NIV) can improve the long term outcome and improve quality of life.

Delivery of Internet-based cancer genetic counselling services to patients' homes: a feasibility study.

We examined the feasibility of home videoconferencing for providing cancer genetic education and risk information to people at risk. Adults with possible hereditary colon or breast and ovarian cancer syndromes were offered Internet-based counselling. Participants were sent web cameras and software to install on their home PCs.

Understanding how out-of-pocket expenses, treatment value, and patient characteristics influence treatment choices.

Purpose: Cost sharing, intended to control the "overuse" of health care resources, may also reduce use of necessary services. The influence of cost on the treatment choices of patients with life-threatening illness, such as cancer, is unknown.

Methods: A convenience sample of patients undergoing surveillance following curative treatment for localized cancer completed a paper survey that included three scenarios to elicit the maximum copayment they would be willing to pay for better treatment outcomes.