'Carrying on the way we are is becoming shambolic' – An interview study with prostate cancer specialists about their usual practice of follow-up. (July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bulger, Jenna K; Hiscock, Julia; Neal, Richard D; Stanciu, Andrei; Makin, Matthew; Wilkinson, Clare
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical urology. Volume 8:Number 4(2015:Jul.)
• Page Start: 240
• Page End: 245
• Publication Date: 2015-07
• Subjects: Prostate cancer -- management -- follow-up -- interview -- current practice; Genitourinary organs -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Genitourinary organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Urology -- Periodicals; 616.6005
• DOI: 10.1177/2051415814545804
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-4158

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to clarify what practice for the follow-up of prostate cancer is occurring at present and to explain the reasons behind any variation. Background: Prostate cancer has been increasing in incidence in the UK for several years. It has been suggested that men with prostate cancer could be better managed, and that some aspects of care are duplicated by primary and secondary care professionals. Methods: This study aimed to interview the prostate cancer specialists identified as working within the district general hospitals of a large health board. The interviews used a qualitative semi-structured approach. Analysis was performed using The Framework method. Findings: Current practice for the follow-up of prostate cancer is variable both within and between hospitals. Patients are followed up in secondary care for longer than National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends due to a lack of trust of general practitioners' management. This inevitably impacts upon waiting lists, and many patients' appointments are long overdue. A remote prostate-specific antigen (PSA) surveillance system may be beneficial. It is generally thought that change to the usual practice of follow-up of prostate cancer patients is required.