Perceptions of the working alliance among medical staff and cancer patients

A working alliance (WA) is considered an essential factor in therapeutic relationships, relating to the mutual and interactive aspects of the relationship. In the medical setting, a WA has been found to be related to various positive outcomes; however, it has previously been investigated solely from the patient's perspective. The aim of the current study was to measure the concept from both sides of the patient-medical staff interaction.

Physicians, nurses, and advanced cancer patients completed the Working Alliance Inventory-Short Revised.

Some 32 physicians, 39 nurses, and 52 advanced cancer patients completed the study. Senior staff members rated the WA higher than trainees, both among physicians and nurses. Physicians and nurses rated the "bonds" subscale highest, while patients rated "goals" at the highest level. In addition, a significant difference was demonstrated between physicians and patients, with patients rating the WA higher.

These preliminary findings demonstrate different perspectives among advanced cancer patients and medical staff interactions. Future studies should investigate the interactive aspects of the WA concept in the medical setting.

Awareness of the working alliance in patient-staff interactions may improve the quality of treatment given to patients confronting cancer.