Routine Monitoring of QTc Interval as a Barrier for Efficient Use of Methadone in Palliative Care.

Background: Methadone is a commonly prescribed opioid amongst cancer patients. It has unique pharmacological properties which can benefit in treating complex pain syndromes and neuropathic pain. However, strict guidelines have been created in a generalized manner for chronic pain and long-term survival patients.

Impact of an Institution-Wide Goals of Care Program on the Timing of Referrals to Outpatient Palliative Care.

Context: Palliative care has received increased interest since the COVID-19 pandemic due to its role in guiding goals of care (GOC) discussions.

Objectives: We assessed the change in the timing of outpatient palliative care referrals before and after implementing an institution-wide multicomponent interdisciplinary GOC (myGOC) program.

Methods: We reviewed 200 random supportive care center (SCC) consult visits each from June to November 2019 (before myGOC) and June to November 2020 (after myGOC).