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Physician requests by patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma in Japan
Yasuko Nagamatsu1, Isao Oze2, Keisuke Aoe3
1St. Luke's International University, Graduate School of Nursing Science, 10-1 Akashicho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 1040044, Japan.
Background:
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a fatal and rare disease that is caused by the inhalation of asbestos. Treatment and care requests made by MPM patients to their physicians were collected and analyzed.
Methods:
This cross-sectional survey was part of a larger study (N = 133) regarding the quality of life of MPM patients. Specific responses to two open-ended questions related to patients' requests regarding treatment and care were quantified, analyzed and divided into categories based on content.
Results:
Responses (N = 217) from MPM patients (N = 73) were categorized into 24 subcategories and then abstracted into 6 categories. The majority of requests were related to patient-physician communication. Patients wanted clear and understandable explanations about MPM and wanted their physician to deliver treatment based on the patient's perspective by accepting and empathizing with their anxiety and pain. Patients expected physicians to be dedicated to their care and establish an improved medical support system for MPM patients.
Conclusion:
Patients with MPM had a variety of unmet needs from their physicians. Physicians who provide care to MPM patients should receive training in both communication skills and stress management. A multidisciplinary care system that includes respiratory and palliative care for MPM patients should be established.
Insights
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients desire improved physician communication, empathy, and dedicated care. They seek clear explanations and a better support system to address unmet needs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, fatal cancer linked to asbestos exposure.
- Understanding patient needs is crucial for improving care quality in MPM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze treatment and care requests from MPM patients.
- To identify unmet patient needs regarding physician interactions and support systems.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 73 MPM patients (part of a 133-patient study).
- Analysis of 217 responses to open-ended questions on patient requests.
- Categorization of requests into 6 main categories and 24 subcategories.
Main Results:
- Most requests focused on patient-physician communication.
- Patients desired clear explanations, empathy for anxiety/pain, and dedicated physician involvement.
- Patients expected improved medical support systems for MPM care.
Conclusions:
- MPM patients have significant unmet needs from their physicians.
- Physician training in communication and stress management is recommended.
- Establishment of multidisciplinary care, including respiratory and palliative services, is essential.
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