Purpose
Lung cancer referral pathways aim to reduce delays and improve referral patterns of people with suspected lung cancer. As part of implementing lung cancer referral pathway at a regional Australian hospital, this study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of people with lung cancer and their carers.
Methods
In this cross-sectional qualitative study, we used an in-depth interview technique to elicit data for thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with newly diagnosed lung cancer patients and their carers at an academic cancer centre.Fourteen interviews were conducted by telephone and five were conducted face-to-face (according to patient preference), at a time convenient to the patient/carer. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and qualitatively analysed.Descriptive phrases were used to generate initial inductive codesand themes about topics such as communication, timeliness, support, and satisfaction.
Results
Out of the 36 potential participants approached, 19 agreed to take part in the study. Themes important for participants were quality of communication from clinicians, timeliness of investigations and specialist referrals, patient advocacy, psycho-social support, and co-ordination of care. Some patients and their carers experienced various difficulties which reduced their perception of quality of care. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, tele-health consultations, including telephone consultations were being used widely. Good communication, timeliness and patient advocacy and support were factors that positively impacted the care experience. Negative experiences included improper communication, long waiting times for investigations and appointments, uncertainty about the process and inconsistent providers. Participants preferred face to face or video-linked consultations over telephone consultations.
Conclusion
Proper communication, timeliness and adequate psycho-social support were perceived as important factors in improving satisfaction of lung cancer patients and their carers during the referral pathway. Methods to improve communication by clinicians, reduce delays and provide support care during the referral pathway should be explored further.