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Assessing communication between oncology professionals and their patients
Cleora Roberts1, Harold Benjamin, Liddy Chen
1University of South Florida, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institution, Tampa, 33620, USA. croberts@cas.usf.edu
Summary
Oncology health care professionals (HCPs) recognize the importance of patient communication for satisfaction and compliance. However, many HCPs lack confidence in discussing alternative therapies and maintaining patient hope.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Communication
- Patient Education
Background:
- Effective communication remains a challenge for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and educators in oncology.
- Improving patient-provider communication is crucial for cancer care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess oncology HCPs' attitudes towards patient communication.
- To evaluate the perceived effectiveness of communication skills.
- To identify specific areas where HCPs desire improvement in patient communication.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed on ConversationsInCare.com.
- The survey targeted oncology HCPs to gather data on their communication practices and beliefs.
- Data collected included attitudes, perceived effectiveness, and specific communication skill deficits.
Main Results:
- A significant majority of respondents (291) affirmed that good communication boosts patient satisfaction (76%) and treatment compliance (88%).
- A notable gap exists in comfort levels discussing complementary or alternative therapies, with only 34% feeling proficient.
- Approximately 50% of oncology HCPs reported lacking the necessary skills to effectively support patients in maintaining hope.
Conclusions:
- Oncology HCPs universally acknowledge the significance of effective communication in cancer care.
- There is a clear desire among HCPs to enhance their communication skills.
- Findings highlight critical areas for targeted educational interventions for cancer educators and HCPs.
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