Exploration of communication gaps among women with metastatic breast cancer, caregivers and oncologists. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Citron, Marc L; Mayer, Musa; Dickson, Robyn Bell; Jones, Stephen; Brufsky, Adam M
• Is Part Of: Breast cancer management. Volume 5:Number 4(2016)
• Page Start: 151
• Page End: 160
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: breast cancer -- metastatic breast cancer -- oncology; Breast -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Breast -- Cancer -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.9944905
• DOI: 10.2217/bmt-2016-0023
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-1923

Abstract

Aim: The Make Your Dialogue Count survey aimed to explore communication gaps between patients/caregivers and oncologists, and the needs of patients/caregivers at diagnosis and most recent treatment change.Methods: Three distinct sets of parallel questions were asked of 359 women with metastatic breast cancer, 234 caregivers and 252 oncologists. Survey respondents were not necessarily associated with each other.Results: Patients/caregivers considered themselves knowledgeable, yet many lacked basic disease information affecting treatment decisions. Patients/caregivers reported that oncologists do not discuss important topics at diagnosis. Patients failed to discuss side effects, but wanted their oncologist's help to manage side effects.Conclusion: This survey provides additional insight on interactional dynamics to bridge gaps in understanding that affect quality of care.