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Patient preferences regarding cancer group psychotherapy interventions: a view from the inside
Allen C Sherman1, Jaymie Pennington, Umaira Latif
1Department of Behavioral Medicine, AR Cancer Research Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA. ShermanAllenC@uams.edu
Abstract:
Group interventions for cancer patients have commanded notable interest among investigators, but utilization rates are low and little is known about the features that patients themselves deem most important. The authors examined the views of potential participants, among 425 patients with diverse malignancies. A large number (64.6%) expressed interest, although few had attended a group. Preferences were strongest for interventions convened during diagnostic or active treatment periods rather than later, and those focusing on medical education or health-promotion, rather than emotional support or coping. Most were amenable to drop-in formats and to heterogeneous membership. In subgroup analyses, preferences were associated with disease site and not strongly related to psychosocial or demographic predictors. Understanding patient preferences may be critical for successful program development and utilization.
Insights
Cancer patients prefer group interventions focused on medical education and health promotion during active treatment. Understanding these patient preferences is key to improving participation in cancer support programs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Patient Support Programs
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Group interventions for cancer patients are of interest but underutilized.
- Little is known about patient-specific preferences for these programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the preferences of cancer patients regarding group interventions.
- To identify factors influencing patient interest and participation.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 425 patients with diverse malignancies.
- Analysis of patient preferences for intervention timing, focus, format, and membership.
Main Results:
- 64.6% of patients expressed interest in group interventions.
- Strongest preferences were for interventions during diagnostic/active treatment phases.
- Medical education and health promotion were preferred over emotional support.
- Patients were amenable to drop-in formats and heterogeneous groups.
- Preferences correlated with disease site, not strongly with demographics.
Conclusions:
- Patient preferences significantly influence potential utilization of group interventions.
- Tailoring interventions to patient preferences, particularly timing and focus, is crucial for program success.
- Understanding patient needs can enhance the development and uptake of cancer support programs.
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