332 Background: In 2023, there were roughly 175,000 radiation oncology consultations for prostate cancer, with the average consult taking 35 minutes. The growing demand for prostate cancer consults with radiation oncologists warrants improved clinical efficiency while maintaining a high level of patient satisfaction and patient education. One modality of addressing similar concerns that has been gaining popularity is patient education videos. The goal of this study is to evaluate whether similar provider-developed educational videos decrease the amount of time radiation oncology doctors, residents, and nurses spend with patients for prostate cancer consults, ultimately increasing clinic efficiency. Methods: This prospective, nonrandomized observational study included 205 adult males with prostate adenocarcinoma presenting for a radiation oncology consultation. Eligible participants were undergoing evaluation for radiation therapy; those with prior curative-intent prostate radiation or variant histology were excluded. The educational videos, consisting of 3-4 short videos, were privately shown on the patient’s portal and were made available prior to the scheduled consultations. Videos included briefings on prostate anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology of cancer, staging of the patient’s specific cancer, and a short introduction to treatment options. Measurement of outcomes was done using a clinic time sheet. Analysis was done on patient time with nurses, residents, physicians, and total medical provider time. Two-sample t-tests were performed between patients who did and did not watch the videos. Statistical significance was set at p-value < 0.05 . Findings are from a preliminary analysis to assess for feasibility and early insights. Results: 135 (65.85%) patients did not watch the educational videos, and 70 (34.15%) patients did. The mean amount of time the non-video watching group spent with the provider was 41.533 minutes, and 51.171 minutes for the video watching group. Two-sample t-test revealed statistical significance with p = 0.015 (pooled) and p = 0.019 (Satterthwaite). Time spent in the room, with a nurse, or with a resident was statistically similar between groups. Conclusions: Preliminary results highlight why videos alone, without a change in provider approach, may not be sufficient to increase clinic efficiency. Educational videos may give patients more time to develop questions before the visit. If providers continue their usual discussion routine, this added engagement may lead to longer clinic visits. Future work should evaluate integration of such tools alongside adapted provider communication strategies to optimize both efficiency and patient experience
Martin et al. (Sun,) studied this question.