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Defining Family-Centered Cancer Care: A Group Concept Mapping Study
Karla T Washington1, Abigail J Rolbiecki2, Todd D Becker3
1Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Psycho-Oncology
|July 17, 2025
Summary
Family members highlighted key areas for improving family-centered cancer care, emphasizing the need for better facility support, financial aid, and education. Addressing these can enhance care for patients and their families.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Patient and Family Support
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Family-centered cancer care is crucial but lacks a clear, actionable definition, hindering consistent clinical application.
- Previous definitions have often overlooked diverse family perspectives, potentially worsening health disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define essential components of family-centered cancer care by engaging diverse family members of cancer patients.
- To identify actionable strategies cancer centers can implement to better support patients' families.
Main Methods:
- A sequential mixed-methods group concept mapping study involving 121 family members (spouses, adult children, etc.).
- Participants brainstormed, rated, and sorted potential family support strategies.
- Data analysis included multidimensional scaling, cluster analysis, and descriptive statistics.
Main Results:
- Family members identified five key clusters of support: Facility Characteristics, Financial Assistance, Family Support, Clinical Operations, and Family Education.
- All identified responses were rated as important, and 78% were recognized as true to their care experiences.
- Participants were predominantly spouses/partners (53%) and adult children (22%), with a mean age of 55.
Conclusions:
- Family members recognize the value of family-centered cancer care but see significant opportunities for enhancement.
- Implementing improvements in identified areas can strengthen support systems for cancer patients and their families.
- Addressing these opportunities is vital for improving overall cancer care outcomes.
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