Developing a Research Tumor Board in CNS: Adapting the Tumor Board Model for Implementation Science Research

Introduction: Puerto Rico has lost 500 physicians annually since 2014 leaving some specialties, like neurosurgery, understaffed on the island. At the same time, there is a significant lack of literature on central nervous system (CNS) intervention outcomes in Puerto Rico. Therefore, earlier this year, a CNS tumor board (CNSTB) was created by the University of Puerto Rico Medical Campus (UPRMC) and the Comprehensive Cancer Center of Puerto Rico. Typically, Tumor boards provide a space for health specialist to meet regularly, review and discuss cancer cases. We now want to adapt our tumor board to keep record about challenges and strengths in cancer care, focusing on the field of brain tumors. We also want to use this model to promote research collaborations. Here, we describe the role of CNSTB and the addition of research as a new goal using implementation science guidelines.

Methods: In this poster, we present a brief review of implementation science frameworks and theories. Based on these findings, we propose feasible guidelines and milestones for our CNSTB program for the next five years. Moreover, we review proper frameworks for the evaluation of the CNSTB application and success. Finally, we discuss benefits and challenges of the CNSTB this past year.

Results: Our CNSTB will follow the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), while taking in consideration the current healthcare realities in the island. We propose that beyond medical doctors we need community workers, PhD researchers, and nurses included in CNSTB meetings for research implementation. Moreover, we adapt the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance) framework for evaluation of our proposed milestones over the next 5 years.

Conclusion : Tumor boards are becoming more common across medical institutions and shows promise for patient care. Our proposal outlines methods to measure CNSTB impacts on patient quality care and its impact promoting research deliverables.