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Casanovas-Álvarez A, Sebio-Garcia R, Masià J, Mateo-Aguilar E. Experiences of Patients with Breast Cancer Participating in a Prehabilitation Program: A Qualitative Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3732. [PMID: 38999298 PMCID: PMC11242540 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer diagnosis among women worldwide. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have shown the benefits of exercise before, during, and after cancer treatment to manage side effects related to cancer and its therapies. However, these are poorly implemented across the disease-span, specifically, during the preoperative setting. Methods: Patients diagnosed with BC and participating in a randomized controlled trial on the effects of a prehabilitation program based on Nordic walking, muscle strengthening, and therapeutic education were invited to participate in this qualitative substudy. Two groups of eight patients each were recorded, transcript and analyzed using a specialized software (Atlas-Ti®, version 24). Results: During the axial codification phase, 22 unique codes and 6 main themes were identified related to their experience with the program, namely, (1) information received prior to participating; (2) motivation to participate; (3) barriers; (4) facilitators; (5) perceived degree of support from healthcare workers as well as peers; and (6) satisfaction with the characteristics of the prehabilitation program. Conclusions: Patients interviewed showed great interest in prehabilitation as a way to prepare both physically and mentally for surgery. In order to implement these interventions, healthcare systems need to acknowledge barriers and facilitators as well as the need for these programs to be supervised and monitored to avoid adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Casanovas-Álvarez
- Department of Health Sciences TecnoCampus, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08302 Mataró, Spain; (A.C.-Á.); (E.M.-A.)
- Research Group in Chronic Care and Health Innovation (GRACIS) TecnoCampus, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08302 Mataró, Spain
- Physical Therapy Department, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Sebio-Garcia
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Masià
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Ester Mateo-Aguilar
- Department of Health Sciences TecnoCampus, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08302 Mataró, Spain; (A.C.-Á.); (E.M.-A.)
- Research Group in Chronic Care and Health Innovation (GRACIS) TecnoCampus, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08302 Mataró, Spain
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2
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Zhu L, Xu M, Ruan T, Huang X, Cen J. The role of patient volunteers in Fangcang Shelter Hospital during the Omicron wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai, China: a qualitative study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1215030. [PMID: 37900044 PMCID: PMC10600484 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1215030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective During the Omicron wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai, Fangcang Shelter Hospital (FSH) served as the major way in patient quarantine. Many COVID patients served as volunteers in FSH providing a lot of assistance for the medical workers and other COVID patients. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patient volunteers in FSH. It helps health professionals better understand their motivational incentives and barriers in their volunteer work, and improves recruiting and managing volunteers in subsequent public health emergencies. Methods This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Thirteen patient volunteers working in an FSH in Shanghai were included. Thematic analysis was applied to data analysis. Results Four themes and nine subthemes were identified. The wishes to give back to society and the responsibility of politics and religion were the main reasons for the patients to serve as volunteers in FSH. The patient volunteers served as the bridge to reduce the communication barriers between other patients and healthcare professionals. They also provided support in supply distribution and psychological counseling. They viewed voluntary work as a usual task and tried to solve the barriers in their work. In turn, the voluntary work brought them benefits in mental and physical health, as well as another chance for growth. Conclusion Working as volunteers in FSHs not only brought personal benefits to the COVID patients but also fulfilled the needs of the healthcare system during public health emergencies. The mode of mutual help between patients could be taken as an example in other public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Zhu
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengqi Xu
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tiantian Ruan
- School of Nursing, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoli Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jue Cen
- Office of Administration, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- China Hospital Development Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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Kiemen A, Czornik M, Weis J. How effective is peer-to-peer support in cancer patients and survivors? A systematic review. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04753-8. [PMID: 37120782 PMCID: PMC10374798 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04753-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Core components of peer-to-peer (PTP) support for cancer survivors include informational, emotional, and psychosocial aspects. Previous literature on peer support in cancer includes both professionally and peer-led support. Our objective was to summarize studies on the effects of non-professionally led PTP support in cancer. METHODS We performed a systematic research on studies in PTP support of adult cancer survivors with an interventional design, comparing outcomes of PTP support against any control. We included all studies with a precise definition of a PTP support, published from January 2000 up to March 2023 in peer-reviewed journals in English or German. RESULTS Out of N = 609 identified publications, we were are able to include n = 18 randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) fulfilling our inclusion criteria. Main settings were dyadic support via telephone, face-to-face (FTF), and web-based online support. Most common outcomes were distress, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and quality of life (QoL). Overall, we found only small effects of PTP support on depression/anxiety, coping, or sexual functioning. Beneficial effects associated with the PTP intervention were apparent in particular in BRCA, in FTF settings, and in assessments of cancer-specific QoL outcomes. CONCLUSION This review shows that there are a few RCT investigating the effect of PTP support with short-term effects. Overall, there is a need for more RCTs with high methodological standards to evaluate the effectiveness of PTP support.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kiemen
- Comprehensive-Cancer Centre Freiburg (CCCF), Medical Faculty of the Albert-Ludwigs University, Endowed Professorship for Self-Help Research University Clinic, Hugstetterstr. 49, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - M Czornik
- Comprehensive-Cancer Centre Freiburg (CCCF), Medical Faculty of the Albert-Ludwigs University, Endowed Professorship for Self-Help Research University Clinic, Hugstetterstr. 49, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
| | - J Weis
- Comprehensive-Cancer Centre Freiburg (CCCF), Medical Faculty of the Albert-Ludwigs University, Endowed Professorship for Self-Help Research University Clinic, Hugstetterstr. 49, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
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Pan S, Wang L, Zheng L, Luo J, Mao J, Qiao W, Zhu B, Wang W. Effects of stigma, anxiety and depression, and uncertainty in illness on quality of life in patients with prostate cancer: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:129. [PMID: 37098648 PMCID: PMC10131473 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01159-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although much work has been carried out on stigma, anxiety and depression, and quality of life(QoL) in cancer patients, far less work has been done to examine their associations. This study explores the effects of stigma, anxiety and depression, and uncertainty in illness on QoL in prostate cancer patients. METHODS A cross-sectional study surveyed levels of stigma, anxiety and depression, QoL, and uncertainty in illness in 263 people diagnosed with prostate cancer from the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. The main study variables were analyzed by structural equation modeling. RESULTS Anxiety and depression were significantly negatively related to QoL, with a standardized regression coefficient (β=-0.312, S.E. =0.478, p < 0.05), which means that participants reporting higher levels of anxiety reported decreased levels of QoL. Stigma was positively related to anxiety and depression (β = 0.135, S.E. =0.203, p < 0.001) and uncertainty in illness (β = 0.126, S.E. =2.194, p < 0.05). Stigma has direct effects on QoL (β=-0.209, S.E. =1.655, p < 0.001), but in the presence of a third variable (anxiety and depression overall), direct effects are reduced, as indirect effects emerge through the variable anxiety and depression overall, with an indirect effect size of - 0.054. CONCLUSIONS Stigma impacts mental health, such as anxiety and depression, uncertainty in illness, and QoL. Health care professionals may help patients alleviate feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty in illness to improve QoL outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shucheng Pan
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jie Luo
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinjiao Mao
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenbo Qiao
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Binbin Zhu
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Nursing, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Ziegler E, Klein J, Kofahl C. Do members of cancer peer support groups know more about cancer than non-members? Results from a cross-sectional study in Germany. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:7. [PMID: 36512095 PMCID: PMC9745733 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07488-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to assess whether cancer-specific knowledge (CSK) is associated with membership in a cancer peer support group (PSG) and other factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study investigated the CSK of 1121 cancer patients of various entities across Germany. CSK was measured with the BCKS-14, a 14-item knowledge instrument which was previously participatory developed with patient representatives and oncologists. Associations between CSK and PSG membership, sociodemographic factors, internet use, and preferences in medical decision-making were analysed with t-tests and multiple linear regressions. RESULTS The t-test showed a statistically significant difference in CSK between members and non-members of PSGs. Knowledge for PSG members was on average 0.97 points higher (p < 0.001) and varied between 2 and 14 points compared to 0-14 points for non-members. Regression analysis revealed age, gender, time since diagnosis, education, internet use, and PSG activity to be statistically significant predictors. Younger (β = - 0.15; p < 0.001), female (β = 0.10; p = 0.001), higher educated patients (β = 0.27; p < 0.001) with and a diagnosis longer ago (β = 0.10; p = 0.002) who use the internet frequently for information seeking (β = 0.20; p ≤ 0.001) and members of cancer PSGs (β = 0.18; p ≤ 0.001) showed a higher CSK. CONCLUSION Overall, CSK of the participants shows a high degree of variance. CSK should be promoted for all patients and especially for older, newly diagnosed patients with low educational levels and PSGs introduced early on as they contribute to improving CSK among other benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elâ Ziegler
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Klein
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Kofahl
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Shah J, Kovacs M, Mori D. An Open Group for Patients with Various Chronic Illnesses: A Qualitative Case Evaluation. Int J Group Psychother 2023; 73:44-68. [PMID: 38446577 DOI: 10.1080/00207284.2022.2154674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Many self-management and support groups for medical patients target a specific medical condition or diagnosis and are often time-limited. Presented is the Medical Issues Group (MIG), which is an integration of a self-management program and a therapist-led supportive psychotherapy group. This ongoing group is open to individuals with any significant chronic medical condition. Findings from our qualitative evaluation (n = 9) revealed that this group is positively received and can provide individuals who are experiencing challenges associated with living with medical illness a forum to receive high quality social support, address feelings of social isolation and loneliness, and develop adaptive coping strategies to adjust to medical illness. The inclusive structure of the group appears to provide enhanced access to high quality support and intervention for a vulnerable population. Limitations and implications are discussed.
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Ziegler E, Nickel S, Trojan A, Klein J, Kofahl C. Self-help friendliness in cancer care: A cross-sectional study among self-help group leaders in Germany. Health Expect 2022; 25:3005-3016. [PMID: 36129136 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer support is increasingly recognized as crucial for improving health and psychosocial outcomes in oncological care. The integration of cancer self-help groups (SHGs) into cancer care facilities has gained importance in recent years. Yet, there is a lack of knowledge of the extent and quality of cooperation between cancer care facilities and SHGs and their integration into routine care. The concept of self-help friendliness (SHF) provides a feasible instrument for the measurement of cooperation and integration. METHODS A cross-sectional study across Germany investigates the experiences of 266 leaders of cancer SHGs concerning their cooperation with cancer care facilities based on the criteria for SHF. The participatory study was developed and conducted with representatives of the House of Cancer Self-Help and the federal associations of cancer self-help. RESULTS According to the SHG leaders, about 80% of their members primarily find their way to an SHG via other patients and only less than 50% more or less frequently via hospitals or rehabilitation clinics. The quality of cooperation with cancer centres, hospitals and rehabilitation clinics, however, is rated as good to very good by more than 70% of the respondents. Nine out of 10 quality criteria for SHF are fully or at least partially implemented, the values vary between 53% and 87%. Overall, 58% of the SHG leaders feel well to be very well integrated into care facilities. CONCLUSIONS The results show a positive assessment of the involvement of SHGs in oncological care, but differences between inpatient and outpatient care and low referrals to SHGs are prominent. The concept of SHF is a feasible solution for a systematic and measurable involvement of SHGs. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The perspectives and insight of patient representatives obtained through qualitative interviews were directly incorporated into this study. Representatives of cancer self-help organizations were involved in the development of the questionnaire, reviewed it for content and comprehensibility, and further helped to recruit participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elâ Ziegler
- Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Nickel
- Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alf Trojan
- Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Klein
- Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Kofahl
- Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Ziegler E, Hill J, Lieske B, Klein J, dem OV, Kofahl C. Empowerment in cancer patients: Does peer support make a difference? A systematic review. Psychooncology 2022; 31:683-704. [PMID: 34981594 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Empowerment is critical for cancer patients to make informed choices, to manage medication, and to navigate through the oncological care system. Cancer peer support provides patients with information, emotional relief and may promote empowerment. This paper provides a systematic review of the literature examining the impact of cancer peer support interventions on psychological empowerment. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO and PSYNDEX databases were systematically searched from inception until December 2020. We included quantitative studies, published in English or German, which examined peer-led cancer support interventions and their impact on the three components of psychological empowerment (intrapersonal, interactional and behavioural) among participating cancer patients. RESULTS Database searches and screening of relevant reference lists identified 2336 potentially relevant articles. A total of 29 studies were included in the review. Active coping, self-efficacy and knowledge were the most prominent dimensions of empowerment in these studies. The majority of studies revealed that peer support led to a small to medium, significant increase in psychological empowerment, and was associated with further patient-reported benefits. CONCLUSIONS The existing evidence suggests a weak to moderate, positive association between cancer peer support and the three components of psychological empowerment among cancer patients. Peer support groups should be seen as an important element in cancer care and clinical practice and, thus, be more systematically involved in cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elâ Ziegler
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Josephine Hill
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Berit Lieske
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Klein
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Olaf von dem
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Kofahl
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Santarelli S, Ambrose N, Taylor Z, Dreher P, May N. Prostate Cancer Support Groups: The Unadvertised Camaraderie. Cureus 2021; 13:e18208. [PMID: 34722024 PMCID: PMC8544621 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa), in particular, is known to cause significant psychosocial distress during the duration of a patient’s treatment due to its uncertainty and demasculinizing side effects. Prostate cancer support groups (PCSGs) have been proven to be beneficial, yet are underutilized by the majority of PCa patients and physicians. A thorough review of the literature was performed for articles pertaining to prostate cancer support groups. We sought to identify factors contributing to the psychological burden of the disease, factors that influenced patients to join, and barriers to participation in a PCSG. Additionally, the characteristics and format of PCSGs, as well as outcomes (i.e. quality of life), were evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana Santarelli
- Urology, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | | | | | - Noah May
- Urology, Main Line Health, Philadelphia, USA
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Christiansen N, Walter S, Zomorodbakhsch B, Sartakhti EA, Hübner J. Assessment of Self-Efficacy as a Way to Help Identify Cancer Patients Who Might Benefit from Self-Help Group Attendance? Cancer Invest 2021; 39:133-143. [PMID: 33356618 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2020.1867996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Participating in patient self-help groups is highly recommended to patients in cancer care. Yet, engagement is relatively rare. A total of 253 patients participated in our study conducted as a paper-and-pencil questionnaire. A binominal logistic regression, with interest in participation in self-help groups being the dependent variable, was run. General interest in self-help was high among the respondents. Female gender, higher age, higher education and low self-efficacy were found to significantly predict interest in self-help. Patients reported a lack of information provided by medical professionals. Self-efficacy as a predictor might contribute to characterizing patients who might benefit from self-help group participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jutta Hübner
- Klinik für Innere Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
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Wu CL, Liou CH, Liu SA, Chen CH, Sheu WHH, Chou IJ, Tsai SF. Quality Improvement Initiatives in Reforming Patient Support Groups-Three-Year Outcomes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17197155. [PMID: 33007826 PMCID: PMC7579603 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little has been done regarding the research on quality and quantity of patient support groups (PSGs) and how they can be improved. Here, we present three-year experiences of a quality improvement (QI) program of our PSGs. METHODS We launched earlier on a three-year project to improve our PSGs, including the number and quality of curricula. Data were collected on the number of PSGs, curricula, and participants. RESULTS In the first year, we organized relevant resources of our hospital and established a standard protocol for applying financial support and reporting the results. In the second year, we elected "the best patient" to promote sense of honor and better peer supports. In the third year, we surveyed through questionnaires participants' health literacy to improve their feedback. Competitions and exhibitions of achievements were held each year to share results of every PSG. Finally, we had increased the volume of participation of patients and family over these three years (3968, 5401 (+35.5%) and 5963 (+50.3%)). Participation of staff also increased significantly (489 and 551 (+12.7%)). Furthermore, more interdisciplinary curricula were generated, with fewer doctors (38.2% to 29%), but greater numbers of the following: nurses (4.9% to 17.4%), nurse practitioners (0.4% to 14.5%), medical laboratory scientists (2.5% to 16.3%), social workers (4.7% to 41.7%), and teachers from outside (0% to 1.8%). CONCLUSION In this first study on QI efforts on PSGs, we enlisted a core change team, drew a stakeholder map, and selected an improvement framework with good results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Liang Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan;
- Department of Automatic Control Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung 40700, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hua Liou
- Center for Quality Management, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (S.-A.L.); (I.-J.C)
| | - Shih-An Liu
- Center for Quality Management, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (S.-A.L.); (I.-J.C)
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Otolaryngolog, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsu Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan;
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
| | - Wayne H-H Sheu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - I-Ju Chou
- Center for Quality Management, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (S.-A.L.); (I.-J.C)
| | - Shang-Feng Tsai
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan;
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 40705, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-2359-2525; Fax: +886-4-2359-4980
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Kowalski C, Albert US, Baumann W, Carl EG, Ernstmann N, Hermes-Moll K, Fallenberg EM, Feick G, Feiten S, Härter M, Heidt V, Heuser C, Hübner J, Joos S, Katalinic A, Kempkens Ö, Kerek-Bodden H, Klinkhammer-Schalke M, Koller M, Langer T, Lehner B, Lux MP, Maatouk I, Pfaff H, Ratsch B, Schach S, Scholl I, Skoetz N, Voltz R, Wiskemann J, Inwald E. [DNVF Memorandum Health Services Research in Oncology]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2020; 82:e108-e121. [PMID: 32858754 DOI: 10.1055/a-1191-3759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Health services research in oncology deals with all situations which cancer patients face. It looks at the different phases of care, i. e. prevention / early detection, prehabilitation, diagnostics, therapy, rehabilitation and palliative care as well as the various actors, including those affected, the carers and self-help. It deals with healthy people (e. g. in the context of prevention / early detection), patients and cancer survivors. Due to the nature of cancer and the existing care structures, there are a number of specific contents for health services research in oncology compared to general health services research while the methods remain essentially identical. This memorandum describes the subject, illustrates the care structures and identifies areas of health services research in oncology. This memorandum has been prepared by the Oncology Section of the German Network for Health Services Research and is the result of intensive discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Walter Baumann
- Wissenschaftliches Institut der Niedergelassenen Hämatologen und Onkologen (WINHO GmbH), Köln
| | - Ernst-Günther Carl
- Haus der Krebsselbsthilfe, Bonn.,Bundesverband Prostatakrebs Selbsthilfe, Bonn
| | - Nicole Ernstmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Forschungsstelle für Gesundheitskommunikation und Versorgungsforschung, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn.,Zentrum für Integrierte Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn.,Institut für Patientensicherheit, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn
| | - Kerstin Hermes-Moll
- Wissenschaftliches Institut der Niedergelassenen Hämatologen und Onkologen (WINHO GmbH), Köln
| | - Eva Maria Fallenberg
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Radiologie, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, München
| | | | - Stefan Feiten
- Institut für Versorgungsforschung in der Onkologie GbR, Koblenz
| | - Martin Härter
- Zentrum für Psychosoziale Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg
| | - Vitali Heidt
- Wissenschaftliches Institut der Niedergelassenen Hämatologen und Onkologen (WINHO GmbH), Köln
| | - Christian Heuser
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Forschungsstelle für Gesundheitskommunikation und Versorgungsforschung, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn.,Zentrum für Integrierte Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn
| | - Joachim Hübner
- Zentrum für Bevölkerungsmedizin und Versorgungsforschung, Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck
| | - Stefanie Joos
- Institute of General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University of Tübingen Faculty of Science, Tübingen
| | - Alexander Katalinic
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck.,Institut für Krebsepidemiologie e.V., Universität zu Lübeck, Lübeck
| | | | | | - Monika Klinkhammer-Schalke
- Institut für Qualitätssicherung und Versorgungsforschung, Tumorzentrum Regensburg, Universität Regensburg, Regensburg.,Institut for Quality Assurance and Health Services Research, Tumorcenter Regensburg, University of Regensburg, Regensburg
| | - Michael Koller
- Zentrum für Klinische Studien, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg
| | | | - Burkhard Lehner
- Klinik für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Heidelberg, Heidelberg
| | - Michael P Lux
- Frauen- und Kinderklinik St. Louise, St. Vincenz-Krankenhaus, Paderborn
| | - Imad Maatouk
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Psychosomatik, UniversitätsKlinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg
| | | | - Boris Ratsch
- Market Access & Public Affairs, Takeda Pharma Vertrieb GmbH & Co KG, Berlin
| | | | - Isabelle Scholl
- Institut und Poliklinik für Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg
| | - Nicole Skoetz
- Zentrum für integrierte Onkologie, Universitätsklinik Köln
| | | | - Joachim Wiskemann
- Nationales Zentrum für Tumorerkrankungen Heidelberg, Heidelberg.,UniversitätsKlinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg
| | - Elisabeth Inwald
- Klinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe, Universität Regensburg, Regensburg
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13
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Wu CL, Liou CH, Liu SA, Sheu WHH, Tsai SF. Health Literacy Varies According to Different Background Disease Natures and Characteristics of Participants for Patient Support Groups. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17165702. [PMID: 32784560 PMCID: PMC7460350 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Patient support groups (PSGs) should be designed according to the backgrounds of participants and the nature of their diseases. Using health literacy as an outcome indicator for PSGs is rare. Methods: All questionnaires (Mandarin Multidimensional Health Literacy Questionnaire, MMHLQ) were collected from eight PSGs to evaluate the health literacy of participants. Background data of participants were also collected, including patient or family, age, and first-time participation or not. Results: A total of 458 questionnaires were collected from eight PSGs. The diseases were: autoimmune disease (systemic lupus nephritis (SLE), malignancy (head and neck cancer (HNC), chronic disease (diabetes mellitus or DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), hemodialysis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), genetic disease (autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), and degenerative disease (osteoporosis). For vasculitis (42.21 ± 16.49 years old for SLE) and genetic disease (48.95 ± 17.58 years old for ADPKD), participants were younger. More significant differences between first-time participation and MMHLQ scores were found in disease of osteoporosis, CKD, COPD, and hemodialysis. More significant differences between role of participation (patients themselves or family) and MMHLQ scores were found in SLE, ADPKD, hemodialysis, and CKD. More significant differences between age (elderly or not) and MMHLQ score were found in HNC, DM, CKD, COPD, and osteoporosis. Conclusion: Background data of participants varied across different diseases. Different disease natures and patient background statuses should therefore demand different designs in PSG. MMHLQ before PSGs can be used to help to improve the PSG curriculum on the health literacy of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Liang Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan;
- Department of Automatic Control Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hua Liou
- Center for Quality Management, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (S.-A.L.)
| | - Shih-An Liu
- Center for Quality Management, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (S.-A.L.)
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Otolaryngolog, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
| | - Wayne H.-H. Sheu
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Feng Tsai
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-423-592-525; Fax: +886-423-594-980
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14
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Quality of life and fear of disease progression are associated with aspects of health literacy in men with prostate cancer from Germany. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:2283-2292. [PMID: 31473840 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-05052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our research aimed to identify whether specific aspects of health literacy (HL) are associated with quality of life (QOL) and fear of progression (FOP) in men with prostate cancer (PC). METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study. Regarding HL, we surveyed communication skills, guideline awareness, and knowledge in several domains: PC, health care system, own physical condition, dealing with health problems. Research questions were addressed using regression models for QOL and FOP including sociodemographic and disease-related variables as additional predictors. RESULTS One thousand five hundred seventy-seven men completed the questionnaire. Better QOL was statistically significant associated with communication skills (OR 2.24; CI 1.57-3.21), knowledge of dealing with health problems (OR 2.54; CI 1.74-3.72), and knowledge of own physical condition (OR 0.63; CI 0.42-0.95). FOP decreased with increasing communication skills (β - 0.09; CI - 0.15 to - 0.04), knowledge of health care system (β - 0.07; CI - 0.12 to - 0.02), and knowledge of dealing with health problems (β - 0.21; CI - 0.27 to - 0.15). It increased with guideline awareness (β 0.07; CI 0.02-0.11), PC knowledge (β 0.11; CI 0.06-0.16), and knowledge about own physical condition (β 0.11; CI 0.05-0.17). CONCLUSIONS The findings lead to the hypothesis that some aspects of HL may have a positive and some a negative influence on men with PC. Men should not be overwhelmed by a recommendation for self-observation or by promotion of PC knowledge. Interventions are needed that provide knowledge for managing health problems. Communication in health care should be tailored to men's needs.
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15
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Dierks ML, Kofahl C. Die Rolle der gemeinschaftlichen Selbsthilfe in der Weiterentwicklung der Gesundheitskompetenz der Bevölkerung. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2018; 62:17-25. [PMID: 30535945 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-018-2857-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Luise Dierks
- Institut für Epidemiologie, Sozialmedizin und Gesundheitssystemforschung, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, OE 5410, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland.
| | - Christopher Kofahl
- Zentrum für Psychosoziale Medizin, Institut für Medizinische Soziologie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
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