Continuity of information in cancer care: evaluation of a logbook

A logbook, or patient-dossier, was developed, to improve continuity of information in the treatment and care of head-and-neck cancer patients. It contained information modules on different aspects of care, as well as forms to facilitate communication both between patient and care-professional and between the various care-professionals. The logbook's effectiveness was evaluated in two hospitals in Rotterdam, by comparing outcomes for trial and comparison groups of, respectively, 71 and 54 patients and 59 and 35 care-professionals. Trial patients proved to be better informed, to receive more support and to experience fewer psychosocial problems. Professionals who used the logbook were better informed about their patients, and about the care-activities of fellow-professionals than those who did not. They recognised an improvement in their contact with colleagues and in the harmonisation of their respective care-activities.