@entity2 treatment rates and the role of the XXXX nurse specialist: a qualitative study.

@entity1 @entity2
OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study examines how the @entity2 Nurse Specialist (LCNS) role operates and why they may be able to increase access to treatment. SETTING: 4 Hospital NHS Foundation Trusts in England. DESIGN: A multiple case study design using semistructured interviews, observation and Framework Analysis techniques. @entity1 : Four LCNSs, comprised the 'cases'. Twenty four clinicians who worked with the LCNS participated in individual interviews. Six LCNSs took part in a group interview and 60 @entity2 multidisciplinary team (MDT) members and co-ordinators were observed in the MDT meeting. RESULTS: The LCNS is crucial within the MDT and can act as a catalyst to @entity1 access to treatment. The study identified the clinical activity (assessment, managing symptoms, psychological support and information provision) and role characteristics that can facilitate treatment access. These characteristics are the LCNS's presence across the @entity1 pathway, acting as the 'hub' of the MDT, maintaining a holistic @entity1 focus and working to an advanced level of practice. The findings indicate how factors may have a cumulative impact on treatment access. CONCLUSIONS: If UK @entity1 with @entity2 survival rates are to improve in line with comparable countries, we need to employ every advantage. This study demonstrates how the LCNS role may open doors to positive @entity1 outcomes, including treatment. Further research is required to explore @entity1 ' experiences, decision-making and attitudes to treatment.
