Abstract
Objective: To explore the perceptions and experiences of patients, carers and clinicians relating to treatment decision-making in older people with cancer, and to investigate the acceptability of the eFI as a tool to innuence decisions about SACT. Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 28 participants (12 clinicians, 10 patients and 6 carers) at an NHS cancer day unit in South East England. Patients were > 60 years and had received at least one cycle of SACT. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Results: Two themes were identiied. .eme one highlighted that the assessment of frailty is a variable and complex task. However, an individualised assessment incorporating a balance between quality of life and the potential beneet of treatment is fundamentally important. .eme two identiied that eFI is an acceptable addition to SACT decision-making which must be discussed with the patient and considered within the context of each individual situation. Conclusion: e eFI is acceptable for use in assessing the frailty of older people with cancer prior to starting SACT. In-depth, individualised assessment prior to SACT is important in this population, but it is not always realistic. Incorporating the eFI into SACT decision-making ooers the potential to address this challenge.