Return-to-work issues in outpatient palliative care.

35 Background: Early integration of palliative care (PC) with oncologic care means return to work (RTW) issues will apply to some patients. There is an extensive literature on RTW after completing definitive treatment but much less is known about RTW in patients with active disease and on treatment. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of patients in two Pain & Palliative Care (PC) clinics at a comprehensive cancer center. Respondents were aged 25-65 and had been in paid employment prior to or during their treatment. The survey consisted of 37 items covering three domains: clinical details and demographics; work status, occupation, and work ability; importance of work and factors interfering with work. Results: 105 surveys were completed. 54% respondents were females, median age 53. 79% had been working at the time diagnosis. The commonest primaries were breast, colorectal, lung, GYN, and melanoma/sarcoma. 80% reported having active disease, median 2 years since diagnosis, and 73% were currently on treatment. ...