Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) are integral to the comprehensive care of patients with multiple myeloma, offering a unique blend of bedside nursing experience and advanced clinical training. Samantha Shenoy, MSN, NP, from UCSF Medical Center, highlights the crucial role APPs play in managing patients throughout their treatment journey.
APPs' Multifaceted Role in Myeloma Treatment
APPs are responsible for evaluating patients before initiating treatment and for ongoing management during therapy. Their duties include managing treatment side effects, facilitating communication among the healthcare team (physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers), and coordinating care with outside oncologists, especially for patients seeking specialized treatments available at major academic centers like UCSF. Shenoy emphasizes that APPs guide patients through the healthcare system, address the emotional challenges of living with multiple myeloma, and interpret essential lab results.
Bridging the Gap: The Unique APP Perspective
Shenoy believes APPs offer a unique lens in patient care due to their prior experience as nurses. This background enables them to deeply understand the patient experience, complemented by their master's-level clinical training. This combination allows APPs to view patient care from both a provider and bedside perspective, enhancing their ability to provide holistic and empathetic care.
Evolving Roles and Future Directions
APPs are expanding their roles in myeloma care, particularly in patient education and community outreach. Shenoy is actively involved in educating the African American community about myeloma in Oakland, addressing health disparities and improving access to care. Furthermore, APPs are increasingly involved in identifying suitable candidates for clinical trials. Shenoy's role at UCSF includes maintaining a comprehensive overview of available trials and matching patients to appropriate studies, streamlining the clinical trial enrollment process.
Enhancing Efficiency and Patient Access
At UCSF, APPs see patients independently and collaborate closely with physicians, meeting weekly to discuss patient cases. This model enhances efficiency and ensures patients receive timely and comprehensive care. Shenoy envisions APPs continuing to expand their roles, particularly in research and clinical trial leadership, to further improve outcomes for patients with multiple myeloma.
