Voigt KR, de Bruijn EA, Wullaert L, Witteveen L, Verhoef C, Husson O, Grünhagen DJ. Assessing patients' needs in the follow-up after treatment for colorectal cancer-a mixed-method study.
Support Care Cancer 2024;
32:192. [PMID:
38409637 PMCID:
PMC10896820 DOI:
10.1007/s00520-024-08401-w]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE
The accessibility of cancer care faces challenges due to the rising prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) coupled with a shrinkage of healthcare professionals-known as the double aging phenomenon. To ensure sustainable and patient-centred care, innovative solutions are needed. This study aims to assess the needs of CRC patients regarding their follow-up care.
METHODS
This study uses a mixed-method approach divided in three phases. The initial phase involved focus group sessions, followed by semi-structured interviews to identify patients' needs during follow-up. Open analysis was done to define main themes and needs for patients. In the subsequent quantitative phase, a CRC follow-up needs questionnaire was distributed to patients in the follow-up.
RESULTS
After two focus groups (n = 14) and interviews (n = 5), this study identified six main themes. Findings underscore the importance of providing assistance in managing both physical and mental challenges associated with cancer. Participants emphasised the need of a designated contact person and an increased focus on addressing psychological distress. Furthermore, patients desire individualised feedback on quality of life questionnaires, and obtaining tailored information. The subsequent questionnaire (n = 96) revealed the priority of different needs, with the highest priority being the need for simplified radiology results. A possible approach to address a part of the diverse needs could be the implementation of a platform; nearly 70% of patients expressed interest in the proposed platform.
CONCLUSIONS
CRC patients perceive substantial room for improvement of their follow-up care. Findings can help to develop a platform fulfilling the distinct demands of CRC patients during follow-up.
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