Health Care Use > 2 Years After Cancer Diagnosis: Results From a Survey Among 5,710 Patients With Various Cancer...

This study aimed to examine health care use in a cross-sectional sample of Dutch cancer survivors > 2 years post-diagnosis.

The Dutch Federation of Cancer Patient Organizations (NFK), together with patient representatives and researchers, developed a cross-sectional online survey on life after cancer, which was distributed via email, websites, and social media.

The study included 5710 respondents (> 2 years post-diagnosis). Among those who reported long-term cancer/treatment-related consequences (approximately 89% of participants), one-third (33%) had received professional care or support for these issues in the past 3 months. Those reporting more cancer- or treatment related consequences, those diagnosed 2-5 years ago, those (probably) not (getting) better, and those currently under treatment were more likely to receive professional care or support. Care was primarily provided by medical specialists (47%), physical therapists (37%), and/or general practitioners (32%). 15% expressed a desire for care or support that they did not receive, indicating reasons such as a long time since diagnosis or affordability. Overall, 68% knew where to turn for help; among those with consequences, 19% received peer/volunteer support and 10% wanted it but did not receive it.

A significant proportion of long-term cancer survivors in our sample reported unmet support needs (15% for professional care, 10% for peer support). Efforts should focus on improving access to affordable professional care, expanding peer support networks, providing personalized long-term follow-up care, and reducing stigma around seeking help, particularly within the context of the Dutch healthcare system.