The Psychosocial Oncology Learning Assessment: A Province-Wide Survey of Cancer Care Providers’ Learning Needs

Abstract

A psychosocial oncology learning needs assessment was developed and offered online to cancer care providers in a variety of settings across all health regions in British Columbia. The purpose was to better understand the psychosocial learning needs of cancer care providers and to use this knowledge to shape continuing education priorities. Respondents' preferred learning formats, access to technology and barriers to accessing psychosocial learning opportunities were also assessed. Cancer care providers including radiation therapists, social workers, dieticians, pharmacists, physicians and nurses in both community and agency settings were surveyed. Two hundred and sixty-seven people completed the survey. Key learning needs identified included cultural aspects of care, symptom management, treating the anxious patient, self-care for the professional, care of elderly patients, basic cancer-related medical issues surrounding care and ethics. Community respondents indicated more needs than agency respondents. On-site training was the most preferred learning format, and time constraints were the biggest barrier to accessing learning opportunities. Participants had access to technology. Next steps include conducting key informant and focus group interviews to determine if interest in a learning need is the same as a relevant knowledge and practice gap. This research suggests that cancer care providers are interested in learning more about the psychosocial issues related to cancer care.