# Rehabilitation needs of people with brain tumours in Ireland: Protocol for a prospective, mixed methods action research study (“Brain-RESTORE”)

## TL;DR

This study aims to understand the rehabilitation needs of people with brain tumours in Ireland to improve healthcare support and policy.

## Contribution

The study introduces a mixed methods action research approach to define rehabilitation pathways for brain tumour patients in Ireland.

## Key findings

- Rehabilitation needs vary significantly among brain tumour patients in Ireland.
- Current pathways for rehabilitation are poorly described and lack best practice guidelines.
- Qualitative insights will highlight the lived experiences of patients and carers regarding rehabilitation services.

## Abstract

Background: Approximately 480 people annually in Ireland are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour. Brain tumours are a heterogeneous group of conditions, varying in histopathology, location, and progression. A consistent feature is neurological impairment, which can lead to profound effects on physical and cognitive function. There is evidence that people with brain tumours can benefit from rehabilitation, but pathways are poorly described, and no best practice is defined. This leads to significant unmet need. The aim of this study is to understand the rehabilitation needs of people diagnosed with a brain tumour in Ireland, and gain insight to inform policy and practice.

Methods: A prospective, mixed methods study with embedded action research will be conducted. Patients (n=122) with a new diagnosis of primary brain tumour, and optionally, a nominated carer or family member, will be recruited through a national neuro-oncology service. Rehabilitation need (Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory), quality of life (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Brain Cancer Module, EuroQol-5D-5L), healthcare utilisation and, optionally, carer needs (Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool) will be assessed at four, eight and 12 months post diagnosis. An embedded qualitative study will invite 30 patients and carers to a semi-structured interview to explore their lived experience of rehabilitation needs and services following brain tumour diagnosis. Finally, using an Action Research approach, healthcare professionals involved in caring for people with brain tumours will be invited to participate in co-operative inquiry groups, to reflect on emerging aggregate findings and identify actions that could be undertaken while the study is underway.

Conclusions: By understanding rehabilitation need, the findings will help healthcare professionals and health service providers understand how to prioritise the supports required and encourage policy makers to adequately resource neurorehabilitation to meet the needs of people with a brain tumour diagnosis.