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Aims: Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) use among patients with malignant diagnosis has been rising globally. This study assesses the prevalence of CAM among patients with solid organ or haematological malignancy at a regional outpatient cancer and blood service in Northland, New Zealand. Secondary objectives include determining: i) types of CAM used, ii) sources of information, and iii) patient perspectives on CAM., Method: In this single-centre cross-sectional study, patients attending treatment or follow-up appointments at the Jim Carney Cancer Treatment Centre (JCC) between 25 September to 20 October 2017 were invited to complete an anonymous self-administered questionnaire., Results: Of the 306 assessable entries, 29% (n=89) respondents were using CAM, 10% had intentions to use CAM in the future, while 45% were undecided. Word-of-mouth (58%) was the most common source of CAM information, followed by internet sources (36%) and healthcare professionals (27%). Biologically based therapies were the most popular form of CAM used. Common reasons for CAM use include symptom relief (65%), perceived lower toxicity (62%), holistic (52%), natural (51%) and potential for cure (45%). Only 49% of CAM users felt comfortable discussing their CAM use with their oncologist/ haematologist., Conclusion: CAM use is common and has relevance across oncology treatment centres nationwide. Local research into CAM use can serve to raise awareness and to assist healthcare professional training in addressing CAM use in a specific patient population., Competing Interests: None to disclose., (© PMA.)

Recognising the need for a national approach for the recommended best practice for the follow-up of implanted cardiac rhythm devices to ensure patient safety, this document has been produced by the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). It draws on accepted practice standards and guidelines of international electrophysiology bodies. It lays out methodology, frequency, and content of follow-up, including remote monitoring; personnel, including physician, allied health, nursing and industry; paediatric and adult congenital heart patients; and special considerations including magnetic resonance imaging scanning, perioperative management, and hazard alerts., (Copyright © 2022 Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS) and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). All rights reserved.)