A Mixed-Methods Examination of Communication Between Oncologists and Primary Care Providers Among Primary Care Physicians in Underserved Communities

作者：Shen Megan Johnson^*; Binz Scharf Maria; D'Agostino Tom; Blakeney Natasha; Weiss Elisa; Michaels Margo; Patel Shilpa; McKee M Diane; Bylund Carma L

来源：Cancer, 2015, 121(6): 908-915.

DOI：10.1002/cncr.29131

• cancer
• communication
• PCP
• oncologist
• health disparities

BACKGROUNDResearch has demonstrated that communication and care coordination improve cancer patient outcomes. To improve communication and care coordination, it is important to understand primary care providers' (PCPs') perceptions of communication with oncologists as well as PCPs' communication needs.
METHODSA mixed-methods approach was used in the present study. In the qualitative phase of the study, 18 PCPs practicing in underserved, minority communities were interviewed about their experiences communicating with oncologists. In the quantitative phase of the study, 128 PCPs completed an online survey about their preferences, experiences, and satisfaction with communication with oncologists.
RESULTSResults indicated a PCP-oncologist gap in communication occurred between diagnosis and treatment. PCPs wanted more communication with oncologists, updates on their patients' prognosis throughout treatment, and to be contacted via telephone or email and saw their role as crucial in providing supportive care for their patients.
CONCLUSIONSAlthough PCPs recognize that they play a critical, proactive role in supporting patients throughout the continuum of their cancer care experience, existing norms regarding postreferral engagement and oncologist-PCP communication often hinder activation of this role among PCPs. Expected standards regarding the method, frequency, and quality of postreferral communication should be jointly articulated and made accountable between PCPs and oncologists to help improve cancer patients' quality of care, particularly in minority communities. Cancer 2015;121:908-915. (c) 2014 American Cancer Society.
Primary care physicians (PCPs) treating underserved, minority patients want to be more involved in patient care during and after cancer treatment, but significant communication gaps occur between oncologists and PCPs during this time. A focus on improving PCP-oncologist communication during treatment could reduce the burden on oncologists and improve patient satisfaction and care, specifically among underserved, minority populations.

• 出版日期2015-3-15