Objective:

We aim to assess glioblastoma patient and caregiver preferences across diverse racial groups.

Background:

Glioblastoma (GBM) patients require extensive care, placing a substantial burden on caregivers. Previous studies have found that caregiver burden was significantly higher for those caring for GBM patients compared to other cancers. Early caregiver burnout can lead to premature de-escalation of care, ultimately leading to poorer outcomes. Furthermore, patients and caregivers from diverse ethnic backgrounds often have varying preferences for clinical care which can impact the patient-provider relationship, psychological adjustment, and overall satisfaction with care.

Design/Methods:

We conducted a survey of GBM patients and their caregivers who received longitudinal treatment at our institution from 2021 to 2024 to assess preferences in outpatient neuro-oncologic care. Patients were interviewed by investigators and completed a validated questionnaire assessing preferences in the delivery of care.

Results:

Of 37 GBM patients who received care at our institution, 24 participated. Patients self-identified as Caucasians (46%), Hispanic (33%), or Other (21%) including African American (8%), Asian (5%), Polish (5%) and Ukrainian (3%). When disclosing terminal diagnosis, Caucasians and Other groups favored the patient autonomy model while Hispanics preferred the family centered model. Caucasians and Other ethnic groups preferred reviewing MRI images with the physician. All groups preferred direct contact with the treating team after working hours, which was associated with fewer ER visits. All preferred same day appointments for scans and physician consultation. Regarding end-of-life discussion, Caucasians preferred discussion at time of disease recurrence, while Hispanic and Other groups preferred to have this discussion early in the course of disease.

Conclusions: