A qualitative study of patient perspectives on colorectal cancer

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to use qualitative methods to con tribute to a complete patient perspective on the psychosocial impact of col orectal cancer MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in 20 patients attending a gastrointestinal follow-up clinic at the Toronto-Sunny brook: Regional Cancer Centre. The data documented included patient satisfa ction and perceptions regarding to quality of care, information received, i nvolvement in decision making, and long-term management of the illness. REULTS: Overall, patients were satisfied with their treatment, including th e quality and timeliness of the information they received, the quality of t heir healthcare, and the level of involvement in decision making. However, some patients were dissatisfied with information concerning long-term manag ement of their illness. Patient care, including information and social supp ort. was provided by cancer specialists, family physicians, family, and fri ends. Patients looked to cancer specialists as their primary source of info rmation, but relied on family physicians to fill in gaps in understanding, to provide support, to manage overall care, and to act as a sounding board for ideas and treatment options. Social support was also provided by family and friends. All patients had a relatively positive outlook on their illne ss experience, although those with colostomies had some added difficulty. D espite the focus on positive change, many patients acknowledged difficulty coping with the side effects of treatment. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate that patient information needs to be provi ded in the most common terms and the most straightforward language, informa tion also may need to be repeated and should include attention to long-term management of the illness. Health professionals should assume that patient s may have difficulty in illness management and should encourage a discussi on of patients' concerns.