Early Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Psycho-Oncological Support: A Latent Class Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Research suggests a global shortfall of psycho-oncological assessment and care during the COVID-19 pandemic in addition to delayed diagnosis of cancer. The present study is the first to explore the effect of the pandemic on the provision of psycho-oncological care, stage of cancer at first diagnosis, and duration of hospitalizations. Method: Retrospective latent class analysis of 4,639 electronic patient files with all types, treatment types, and stages of cancer, 370 of which were treated during the pandemic prior to availability of vaccinations. Discussion: Latent class analysis identified four subgroups based on differences in screening for distress, provision of psycho-oncological support (consultation with a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist), administration of psychotropic medication, use of 1:1 observation, stage of cancer at first diagnosis, and duration of hospitalizations. Yet, the pandemic had no effect on subgrouping. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic had no effect on the provision of psycho-oncological support. Conclusion: Results are contrary to prior research. The efficiency and quality of procedures implemented to provide psycho-oncological support during and prior to the pandemic are critically reflected.