An Exploratory Study into the Experience of Health Care Professionals Caring for Adolescents and Young Adults with Incurable Cancer.

Abstract

Adolescents and young adults 15 to 25 years of age with incurable cancer are a unique patient group. There is growing evidence of the emotionally taxing nature of this work, yet limited understanding of the health care professional experience across professional disciplines. This exploratory study, comprising in-depth semistructured interviews, undertaken at a major cancer center in Melbourne, Australia, describes the challenges facing health care professionals and the factors enabling them to deliver care with greater confidence. The findings provide a platform for further research with key recommendations to enhance the delivery of care to young people with a life-limiting cancer diagnosis.