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Patient satisfaction in radiation oncology
Y Zissiadis1, A Provis, E Harper
1Perth Radiation Oncology Centre, Wembley, WA, Australia. yvonne.zissiadis@health.wa.gov.au
Australasian Radiology
|September 20, 2006
Summary
Patients undergoing radiation therapy reported satisfaction with illness information but desired more on lifestyle and practicalities. Treatment significantly reduced patient anxiety levels, prompting new information booklet development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Therapy
- Patient Experience
Background:
- Quality improvement initiatives in radiation oncology are crucial for enhancing patient care.
- Patient-reported outcomes, including satisfaction and anxiety, are key metrics in evaluating radiotherapy services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient satisfaction with information provided by radiation oncologists.
- To investigate the impact of radiotherapy on patients' anxiety levels.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with 120 patients receiving radical radiotherapy for malignancy.
- Patients completed the Information Satisfaction Questionnaire and the State Trait Anxiety Index before and after treatment.
Main Results:
- Most patients were satisfied with explanations of their illness and radiation toxicities.
- Fewer patients were satisfied with information on lifestyle factors and practical issues (e.g., parking, costs).
- A statistically significant reduction in both State and Trait Anxiety scores was observed post-radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy significantly reduces patient anxiety.
- There is a need to improve information delivery regarding lifestyle and practical aspects of cancer treatment.
- Development of targeted information booklets is a positive step towards addressing identified gaps.
