Episode # 3 • 17 Jan 2025
Role of APPs in Pediatric Head & Neck Cancer
Behind every complex pediatric cancer patient is a care team, and advanced practice providers are the key to keeping every moving piece connected. On this episode of BackTable ENT & Allergy, host Dr. Sara Helmig welcomes St. Jude APPs Sara Meehan (pediatric solid tumor oncology nurse practitioner) and Megan Murphy (ENT family nurse practitioner) to discuss the critical role APPs play across the full continuum of care. They walk through clinical responsibilities from pre-op to follow-up, the logistics of organizing multidisciplinary tumor boards, and the importance of care coordination across surgery, oncology, endocrinology, rehab, nutrition, and beyond.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
03:00 - APP Roles in Pediatric Oncology
08:01 - Epic and Workflow Tools
11:03 - Family Education and AI Support
17:26 - Expanding the APP Scope
22:08 - Telehealth and Remote Care
24:47 - Vision for Program Growth
27:31 - Closing Remarks
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More about this episode
The conversation highlights the use of Epic tools and Abridge for documentation, patient education, and tumor board preparation, as well as the APP-family relationship, expectation setting, and early side effect management. Meehan and Murphy share opportunities for expanded APP scope, discuss telehealth and program growth, and reflect on challenges like cross-site communication and intake for out-of-state and international patients. The episode closes with insights on building well-rounded, family-centered care and strategies to strengthen the APP team’s impact.
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