Defining Essential Elements of Caregiver Support in Gynecologic Cancers Using the Modified Delphi Method

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Caregiver Support
• Gynecologic Cancers

Background:

• Family caregivers play a vital role in the care of patients with gynecologic cancer.
• The demands of caregiving can significantly impact the well-being of these essential support persons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To raise awareness of the unmet needs experienced by family caregivers of gynecologic cancer patients.
• To identify and prioritize key support services required within gynecologic cancer centers to address these needs.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi approach was employed, involving a steering committee and 40 stakeholders (caregivers, patients, clinicians).
• Three rounds of consensus-building were used to generate, review, and prioritize caregiver needs and essential support services.
• Basic descriptive statistics informed stakeholder feedback throughout the consensus process.

Main Results:

• The top three caregiver needs identified were: obtaining cancer information, providing patient support and comfort, and maintaining personal emotional health.
• Fifteen essential support elements were prioritized, ranging from practical (symptom management info, navigation support) to holistic (integrative well-being services).

Conclusions:

• Clinicians and healthcare providers should integrate the identified essential support elements into care delivery for gynecologic cancer patients.
• Cancer care settings must proactively incorporate the needs of family caregivers to ensure comprehensive and high-quality patient care.