Early impact of the COVID19 pandemic on psycho-oncological support: a latent class analysis.

Introduction Research suggests a global shortfall of psycho-oncological assessment and care during the COVID19 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 4639 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. Results/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 COVID19 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.