Article
Details
Citation
Lorenc A, Greaves C, Duda J, Brett J, Matheson L, Fulton-Lieuw T, Secher D, Rhodes P, Ozakinci G, Nankivell P, Mehanna H & Jepson M (2022) Exploring the views of patients' and their family about patient-initiated follow-up in head and neck cancer: a mixed methods study. European Journal of Cancer Care. https://doi.org/10.1111/ecc.13641
Abstract
Objective
The objective of this work was to explore head and neck cancer (HNC) patients' and their family members' views on acceptability and feasibility of patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU), including concerns and anticipated benefits.
Methods
Patients were recruited from UK HNC clinics, support groups and advocacy groups. They completed a survey (n = 144) and/or qualitative interview (n = 30), three with a family member. Qualitative data were analysed thematically, quantitative data using descriptive statistics.
Results
Preference for follow-up care in HNC was complex and individual. Many patients thought PIFU could beneficially reallocate health care resources and encourage self-management. Patients' main concerns with PIFU were losing the reassurance of regular clinic appointments and addressing mental well-being needs within PIFU, possibly using peer support. Patients were concerned about their ability to detect recurrence due to lack of expertise and information. They emphasised the importance of a reliable, direct and easy urgent appointment service and of feeling supported and heard by clinicians. Patients believed family and friends need support.
Conclusion
PIFU may be feasible and acceptable for certain HNC patients, providing it addresses support for mental well-being, provides quick, reliable and direct clinician access and information on “red flag” symptoms, and ensures patients and their caregivers feel supported.
Keywords
head and neck cancer; patient education; patient information; psychological; supportive care; users
Notes
Output Status: Forthcoming/Available Online
Journal
European Journal of Cancer Care
Status | In Press |
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Funders | NIHR National Institute for Health Research |
Publication date online | 04/07/2022 |
Date accepted by journal | 06/06/2022 |
URL | http://hdl.handle.net/1893/34489 |
ISSN | 0961-5423 |
eISSN | 1365-2354 |
People (1)
Professor and Deputy Dean of Faculty, Psychology