Lymphoedema care in the mobile unit: a service evaluation of patient experience and attendance rates

Abstract

Background/aims Lymphoedema can be a life-long burden to patients. Value-based lymphoedema services should aim to empower patients and meet expectations of care. This study evaluated the attendance rates and experiences of patients accessing a mobile health unit for lymphoedema care. Methods A questionnaire was shared with all adult patients with lymphoedema at 16 mobile unit clinics in south Wales over 3 months in 2019. Attendance rates and questionnaire data were explored descriptively. Results Out of 417 patients, 175 (37%) participated in the study. Of these, a considerable majority (132/148, 89%) expressed a preference for the mobile unit compared to hospital-based services. Reasons for this preference included ease of access, excellent staff and parking facilities. Non-attendance rates of 8% were observed at the mobile unit. Conclusions Patients favoured attending the mobile unit, suggesting that mobile care is a key aspect of value-based healthcare, allowing services to be planned around patient needs. However, this did not fully resolve the issue of non-attendance. The impact of such community-based services on health outcomes, costs and staff experiences should be explored before widespread adoption is implemented.