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Using mixed methods for evaluating an integrative approach to cancer care: a case study
Alison Brazier1, Karen Cooke, Veronika Moravan
1School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Canada. alison.brazier@nursing.ubc.ca
Integrative Cancer Therapies
|February 23, 2008
Summary
This study explored an integrative cancer care program
Area of Science:
- Integrative oncology
- Patient-centered care
- Mixed-methods research
Background:
- Cancer care programs increasingly incorporate integrative approaches.
- Evaluating the impact of such programs on patient well-being is crucial.
- The Centre for Integrated Healing offers a holistic cancer care model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the influence of an integrative cancer care program on patients' lifestyle, quality of life, and well-being.
- To explore patient experiences within a holistic cancer care setting.
- To identify facilitators of active patient engagement in cancer care.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods case study with pre- and posttest design.
- Quantitative data on quality of life, social support, anxiety, depression, locus of control, and hope were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 5 months.
- Qualitative data from focus groups and interviews were gathered mid-follow-up.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant changes were observed in quantitative measures over 5 months.
- Qualitative findings highlighted patients' active engagement, empowered decision-making, and personal change.
- Key facilitators included healing partnerships, access to resources, integration support, emotional support, and hope.
Conclusions:
- The integrative cancer care program fostered a person-oriented, holistic approach.
- Patients valued the encouragement of active decision-making and self-care.
- Mixed-methods research effectively captured both outcomes and process experiences.
- Further research is needed to validate the impacts of integrative cancer care.
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