Abstract
PurposeMultidisciplinary video consultations are one method of improving coherence and coordination of care in cancer patients, but knowledge of user perspectives is lacking. Continuity of care is expected to have a significant impact on the quality of cancer care. Enhanced task clarification and shared responsibility between the patient, oncologist and general practitioner through video consultations might provide enhanced continuity in cancer care.MethodWe used descriptive survey data from patients and doctors in the intervention group based on a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the user perspectives and fidelity of the intervention.ResultsPatients expressed that they were able to present their concerns in 95% of the consultations, and believed it was beneficial to have both their doctors present in 84%. The general practitioner and oncologist found that tripartite video consultation would lead to better coordination of care in almost 90% of the consultations. However, the benefits of handling social issues and comorbidity were sparser. Consultations were not accomplished in 11% due to technical problems and sound and video quality were non-satisfactory in 20%.ConclusionOverall, multidisciplinary video consultations between cancer patient, general practitioner and oncologist were feasible in daily clinics. Initial barriers to address were technical issues and seamless planning. Patients reported high satisfaction, patient centredness and clarity of roles. General practitioners and oncologists were overall positive regarding role clarification and continuity, although less pronounced than patients.Trial registrationwww.clincialtrials.gov, NCT02716168.
Highlights
Multidisciplinary video consultations are one method to improve coherence and coordination of care in cancer patients, but knowledge of user perspectives is lacking
Scheduling proved to be time-consuming for the oncology coordinators, and extra resources were allocated to ensure seamless planning
The 55 video consultations were completed by 52 general practitioners (GPs) and 14 oncologists
Summary
Multidisciplinary video consultations are one method to improve coherence and coordination of care in cancer patients, but knowledge of user perspectives is lacking. Continuity of care is expected to have a significant impact on the quality of cancer care and the patient quality of life [1]. Coordination of care, collaboration across health care sectors and involvement of general practitioners (GPs) are regarded as essential for continuity of care. Continuity of cancer care still poses a substantial challenge to accomplish [5], and general practitioners (GPs) are often disconnected from care planning [6]. To provide effective cancer care in the future, new models supporting the exchange of knowledge and task clarification between oncologists and GPs are needed, continuously involving the patients’ needs [9]. Bringing them together in a shared consultation might be a powerful solution
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