RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Views of cancer care reviews in primary care: a qualitative study
JF British Journal of General Practice
JO Br J Gen Pract
FD British Journal of General Practice
SP e173
OP e182
DO 10.3399/bjgp11X567108
VO 61
IS 585
A1 Eike Adams
A1 Mary Boulton
A1 Peter Rose
A1 Susi Lund
A1 Alison Richardson
A1 Sue Wilson
A1 Eila Watson
YR 2011
UL http://bjgp.org/content/61/585/e173.abstract
AB Background The Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) provides an incentive for practices to establish a cancer register and conduct a review with cancer patients within 6 months of diagnosis, but implementation is unknown.Aim To describe: (1) implementation of the QOF cancer care review; (2) patients' experiences of primary care over the first 3 years following a cancer diagnosis; (3) patients' views on optimal care; and (4) the views of primary care professionals regarding their cancer care.Design of study Qualitative study using thematic analysis and a framework approach.Setting Six general practices in the Thames Valley area.Method Semi-structured interviews with cancer patients and focus groups with primary care teams.Results Thirty-eight adults with 12 different cancer types were interviewed. Seventy-one primary care team members took part in focus groups. Most cancer care reviews are conducted opportunistically. Thirty-five patients had had a review; only two could recall this. Patients saw acknowledgement of their diagnosis and provision of general support as important and not always adequately provided. An active approach and specific review appointment would legitimise the raising of concerns. Primary care teams considered cancer care to be part of their role. GPs emphasised the importance of being able to respond to individual patients' needs and closer links with secondary care to facilitate a more involved role.Conclusion Patients and primary care teams believe primary care has an important role to play in cancer care. Cancer care reviews in their current format are not helpful, with considerable scope for improving practice in this area. An invitation to attend a specific appointment at the end of active treatment may aid transition from secondary care and improve satisfaction with follow-up in primary care.