0112

PROBLEMS OF FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN WITH BRAIN OR SPINAL CORD TUMORS

Freeman K, O’Dell C, Meola C.

Montefiore Medical Center, New York, U.S.A.

Objective: To identify at each phase of illness the most prevalent problem in families of children with brain or spinal cord tumors.

Methods: Mail survey of families in the northeastern region of the U.S. addressing topics concerning interactions with healthcare providers, medical information and education, healthcare delivery/utilization, and psychosocial issues.

Results: Over 50% of 87 family respondents identified a lack of information regarding etiology, change resulting from illness and treatment, and financial issues as the most important problems.

Conclusion: Identification of these problems will help target intervention strategies for implementation and evaluation.