Clinicians' Experiences and Perspectives about a New Lung Cancer Referral Pathway in a Regional Health Service

Development and implementation of the Townsville Lung Cancer Referral Pathway [TLCRP] aims to reduce delays and improve referral patterns of people with suspected lung cancer in north Queensland, Australia. Reported in this paper is the experiences and perspectives of general practitioners [GPs] and specialists of the TLCRP.

This was a descriptive qualitative study nested within a larger project evaluating TLCRP, utilising a broader implementation science framework. In-depth, semi-structured interviews with GPs and specialists were conducted. An iterative, inductive thematic analysis of interview transcripts was used to derive key codes, then grouped into themes regarding participant experiences and perceptions.

Data analysis identified two major themes and several sub-themes. The major themes were variation in the uptake of TLCRP and enhancing coordinated care and communication.

Several enablers and barriers to implementing TLCRP were identified. Barriers to adaptation of TLCRP included lack of clinical time, resistance to changing referral patterns, lack of familiarity or experience with HealthPathways and technology issues.

Emerging themes from this study may be used to reduce the barriers and improve uptake of TLCRP and other health care pathways in the local health service and may have wider relevance in other settings.