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Kwong FL, Kristunas C, Davenport C, Aggarwal R, Deeks J, Mallett S, Kehoe S, Timmerman D, Bourne T, Stobart H, Neal R, Menon U, Gentry-Maharaj A, Sturdy L, Ottridge R, Sundar S. Investigating harms of testing for ovarian cancer - psychological outcomes and cancer conversion rates in women with symptoms of ovarian cancer: A cohort study embedded in the multicentre ROCkeTS prospective diagnostic study. BJOG 2024; 131:1400-1410. [PMID: 38556698 PMCID: PMC7616335 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate psychological correlates in women referred with suspected ovarian cancer via the fast-track pathway, explore how anxiety and distress levels change at 12 months post-testing, and report cancer conversion rates by age and referral pathway. DESIGN Single-arm prospective cohort study. SETTING Multicentre. Secondary care including outpatient clinics and emergency admissions. POPULATION A cohort of 2596 newly presenting symptomatic women with a raised CA125 level, abnormal imaging or both. METHODS Women completed anxiety and distress questionnaires at recruitment and at 12 months for those who had not undergone surgery or a biopsy within 3 months of recruitment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Anxiety and distress levels measured using a six-item short form of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6) and the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-r) questionnaire. Ovarian cancer (OC) conversion rates by age, menopausal status and referral pathway. RESULTS Overall, 1355/2596 (52.1%) and 1781/2596 (68.6%) experienced moderate-to-severe distress and anxiety, respectively, at recruitment. Younger age and emergency presentations had higher distress levels. The clinical category for anxiety and distress remained unchanged/worsened in 76% of respondents at 12 months, despite a non-cancer diagnosis. The OC rates by age were 1.6% (95% CI 0.5%-5.9%) for age <40 years and 10.9% (95% CI 8.7%-13.6%) for age ≥40 years. In women referred through fast-track pathways, 3.3% (95% CI 1.9%-5.7%) of pre- and 18.5% (95% CI 16.1%-21.0%) of postmenopausal women were diagnosed with OC. CONCLUSIONS Women undergoing diagnostic testing display severe anxiety and distress. Younger women are especially vulnerable and should be targeted for support. Women under the age of 40 years have low conversion rates and we advocate reducing testing in this group to reduce the harms of testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fong Lien Kwong
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Pan Birmingham Gynaecological Cancer Centre, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Caroline Kristunas
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clare Davenport
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ridhi Aggarwal
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jon Deeks
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sue Mallett
- Centre for Medical Imaging, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sean Kehoe
- St Peter’s College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Dirk Timmerman
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Bourne
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Richard Neal
- University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Usha Menon
- Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alex Gentry-Maharaj
- Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lauren Sturdy
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ryan Ottridge
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sudha Sundar
- Pan Birmingham Gynaecological Cancer Centre, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Lindsay C, Baruffati D, Mackenzie M, Ellis DA, Major M, O'Donnell CA, Simpson SA, Williamson AE, Wong G. Understanding the causes of missingness in primary care: a realist review. BMC Med 2024; 22:235. [PMID: 38858690 PMCID: PMC11165900 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03456-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although missed appointments in healthcare have been an area of concern for policy, practice and research, the primary focus has been on reducing single 'situational' missed appointments to the benefit of services. Little attention has been paid to the causes and consequences of more 'enduring' multiple missed appointments in primary care and the role this has in producing health inequalities. METHODS We conducted a realist review of the literature on multiple missed appointments to identify the causes of 'missingness.' We searched multiple databases, carried out iterative citation-tracking on key papers on the topic of missed appointments and identified papers through searches of grey literature. We synthesised evidence from 197 papers, drawing on the theoretical frameworks of candidacy and fundamental causation. RESULTS Missingness is caused by an overlapping set of complex factors, including patients not identifying a need for an appointment or feeling it is 'for them'; appointments as sites of poor communication, power imbalance and relational threat; patients being exposed to competing demands, priorities and urgencies; issues of travel and mobility; and an absence of choice or flexibility in when, where and with whom appointments take place. CONCLUSIONS Interventions to address missingness at policy and practice levels should be theoretically informed, tailored to patients experiencing missingness and their identified needs and barriers; be cognisant of causal domains at multiple levels and address as many as practical; and be designed to increase safety for those seeking care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calum Lindsay
- General Practice and Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, 90 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TB, UK.
| | - David Baruffati
- General Practice and Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, 90 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TB, UK
| | - Mhairi Mackenzie
- School of Social & Political Sciences, Urban Studies, University of Glasgow, 27 Bute Gardens, Glasgow, G12 8RS, UK
| | - David A Ellis
- Centre for Healthcare Innovation and Improvement Information, Decisions and Operations, Centre for Business Organisations and Society (CBOS), University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Michelle Major
- Homeless Network Scotland, 12 Commercial Rd, Adelphi Centre, Gorbals, Glasgow, G5 0PQ, UK
| | - Catherine A O'Donnell
- General Practice and Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, 90 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TB, UK
| | - Sharon A Simpson
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Andrea E Williamson
- General Practice and Primary Care, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, 90 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TB, UK
| | - Geoff Wong
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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AL Naabi M, Al Zaabi A. Quantitative Evaluation of Cancer Stigma among Non-Patient Population in Oman. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2024; 25:1223-1229. [PMID: 38679981 PMCID: PMC11162736 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2024.25.4.1223] [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: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is widely considered as one of the most stigmatized diseases globally, despite scientific advances in the medicine. While most existing literatures focuses on cancer stigma as perceived by patients, there has been limited research on stigma towards cancer among the non-cancer population. In 2014, Marlow et al developed and validated the "Cancer Stigma Scale" (CASS) specifically for the non-Cancer population. This study aims to quantitatively evaluate cancer stigma within the non-patient population in Oman. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study conducted in Oman. The Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS) has been used to evaluate the cancer-related stigma among the non-cancer patient population in Oman. RESULTS A total of 510 participants completed the survey of whom 57.6% were male. The personal responsibility section had the highest mean score, followed by the avoidance and financial discrimination. The lowest mean scores were observed in the danger and policy opposition sections. Female participants showed ore disagreement with cancer stigma statements compared to males. Participants who knew someone with cancer expressed more disagreement with stigma statements than those who did not know anyone with cancer. CONCLUSION This study provides a baseline measurement of cancer-related stigma among non-cancer patients in Oman, tilizing the CASS in a representative sample of the population. The results indicate generally low levels of stigma, though certain aspects are more pronounced, varying according to the participants' gender, age, and personal connections to someone with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adhari Al Zaabi
- Human and Clinical Anatomy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.
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4
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Wagner SK, Raja L, Cortina-Borja M, Huemer J, Struyven R, Keane PA, Balaskas K, Sim DA, Thomas PBM, Rahi JS, Solebo AL, Kang S. Determinants of non-attendance at face-to-face and telemedicine ophthalmic consultations. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:625-632. [PMID: 37217292 PMCID: PMC10958256 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2022-322389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Evaluation of telemedicine care models has highlighted its potential for exacerbating healthcare inequalities. This study seeks to identify and characterise factors associated with non-attendance across face-to-face and telemedicine outpatient appointments. METHODS A retrospective cohort study at a tertiary-level ophthalmic institution in the UK, between 1 January 2019 and 31 October 2021. Logistic regression modelled non-attendance against sociodemographic, clinical and operational exposure variables for all new patient registrations across five delivery modes: asynchronous, synchronous telephone, synchronous audiovisual and face to face prior to the pandemic and face to face during the pandemic. RESULTS A total of 85 924 patients (median age 55 years, 54.4% female) were newly registered. Non-attendance differed significantly by delivery mode: (9.0% face to face prepandemic, 10.5% face to face during the pandemic, 11.7% asynchronous and 7.8%, synchronous during pandemic). Male sex, greater levels of deprivation, a previously cancelled appointment and not self-reporting ethnicity were strongly associated with non-attendance across all delivery modes. Individuals identifying as black ethnicity had worse attendance in synchronous audiovisual clinics (adjusted OR 4.24, 95% CI 1.59 to 11.28) but not asynchronous. Those not self-reporting their ethnicity were from more deprived backgrounds, had worse broadband access and had significantly higher non-attendance across all modes (all p<0.001). CONCLUSION Persistent non-attendance among underserved populations attending telemedicine appointments highlights the challenge digital transformation faces for reducing healthcare inequalities. Implementation of new programmes should be accompanied by investigation into the differential health outcomes of vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siegfried K Wagner
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Laxmi Raja
- Digital Clinical Laboratory, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mario Cortina-Borja
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Josef Huemer
- Department of Medical Retina, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Robbert Struyven
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, University College London, London, UK
| | - Pearse A Keane
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Konstantinos Balaskas
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Dawn A Sim
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL, London, UK
| | - Peter B M Thomas
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL, London, UK
| | - Jugnoo S Rahi
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Ophthamology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Ulverscroft Vision Research Group, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ameenat Lola Solebo
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Ophthamology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Ulverscroft Vision Research Group, University College London, London, UK
| | - Swan Kang
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Adnexal department, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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5
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Black GB, Janes SM, Callister MEJ, van Os S, Whitaker KL, Quaife SL. The Role of Smoking Status in Making Risk-Informed Diagnostic Decisions in the Lung Cancer Pathway: A Qualitative Study of Health Care Professionals and Patients. Med Decis Making 2024; 44:152-162. [PMID: 38240273 PMCID: PMC10865750 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x231220954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer clinical guidelines and risk tools often rely on smoking history as a significant risk factor. However, never-smokers make up 14% of the lung cancer population, and this proportion is rising. Consequently, they are often perceived as low-risk and may experience diagnostic delays. This study aimed to explore how clinicians make risk-informed diagnostic decisions for never-smokers. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 lung cancer diagnosticians, supported by data from interviews with 20 never-smoker lung cancer patients. The data were analyzed using a framework analysis based on the Model of Pathways to Treatment framework and data-driven interpretations. RESULTS Participants described 3 main strategies for making risk-informed decisions incorporating smoking status: guidelines, heuristics, and potential harms. Clinicians supplemented guidelines with their own heuristics for never-smokers, such as using higher thresholds for chest X-ray. Decisions were easier for patients with high-risk symptoms such as hemoptysis. Clinicians worried about overinvestigating never-smoker patients, particularly in terms of physical and psychological harms from invasive procedures or radiation. To minimize unnecessary anxiety about lung cancer risk, clinicians made efforts to downplay this. Conversely, some patients found that this caused process harms such as delays and miscommunications. CONCLUSION Improved guidance and methods of risk differentiation for never-smokers are needed to avoid diagnostic delays, overreassurance, and clinical pessimism. This requires an improved evidence base and initiatives to increase awareness among clinicians of the incidence of lung cancer in never-smokers. As the proportion of never-smoker patients increases, this issue will become more urgent. HIGHLIGHTS Smoking status is the most common risk factor used by clinicians to guide decision making, and guidelines often focus on this factor.Some clinicians also use their own heuristics for never-smokers, and this becomes particularly relevant for patients with lower risk symptoms.Clinicians are also concerned about the potential harms and risks associated with deploying resources on diagnostics for never-smokers.Some patients find it difficult to decide whether or not to go ahead with certain procedures due to efforts made by clinicians to downplay the risk of lung cancer.Overall, the study highlights the complex interplay between smoking history, clinical decision making, and patient anxiety in the context of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia B. Black
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sam M. Janes
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew E. J. Callister
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Sandra van Os
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Samantha L. Quaife
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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6
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Pickwell-Smith BA, Spencer K, Sadeghi MH, Greenley S, Lind M, Macleod U. Where are the inequalities in colorectal cancer care in a country with universal healthcare? A systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080467. [PMID: 38171631 PMCID: PMC10773363 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer living in more deprived areas experience worse survival than those in more affluent areas. Those living in more deprived areas face barriers to accessing timely, quality healthcare. These barriers may contribute to socioeconomic inequalities in survival. We evaluated the literature for any association between socioeconomic group, hospital delay and treatments received among patients with colorectal cancer in the UK, a country with universal healthcare. DESIGN MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, SCIE, AMED and PsycINFO were searched from inception to January 2023. Grey literature, including HMIC, BASE and Google Advanced Search, and forward and backward citation searches were conducted. Two reviewers independently reviewed titles, abstracts and full-text articles. Observational UK-based studies were included if they reported socioeconomic measures and an association with either hospital delay or treatments received. The QUIPS tool assessed bias risk, and a narrative synthesis was conducted. The review is reported to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020. RESULTS 41 of the 7209 identified references were included. 12 studies evaluated 7 different hospital intervals. There was a significant association between area-level deprivation and a longer time from first presentation in primary care to diagnosis. 32 studies evaluated treatments received. There were socioeconomic inequalities in surgery and chemotherapy but not radiotherapy. CONCLUSION Patients with colorectal cancer face inequalities across the cancer care continuum. Further research is needed to understand why and what evidence-based actions can reduce these inequalities in treatment. Qualitative research of patients and clinicians conducted across various settings would provide a rich understanding of the complex factors that drive these inequalities. Further research should also consider using a causal approach to future studies to considerably strengthen the interpretation. Clinicians can try and mitigate some potential causes of colorectal cancer inequalities, including signposting to financial advice and patient transport schemes. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022347652.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie Spencer
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Michael Lind
- University of Hull, Hull, UK
- Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, UK
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Heath G, Clarke R, Ross J, Farrow C. Factors influencing non-attendance at sexual healthcare appointments in the UK: a qualitative study. Sex Health 2023; 20:461-469. [PMID: 37604779 DOI: 10.1071/sh23099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Missed sexual healthcare appointments lead to inefficiencies and wasted resources, longer waiting times and poorer outcomes. The aim of this research was to identify factors influencing non-attendance at sexual healthcare appointments and to make recommendations for interventions. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were carried out with UK-based sexual health service-users with experience of booking and missing appointments and sexual health professionals (n =28). Interviews were analysed using a thematic framework approach. RESULTS Perceptual, practical, and organisational factors were found to influence missed appointments. Perceptual factors included beliefs about the outcomes of attending; sense of responsibility to attend; and concerns about privacy and security. Practical factors included competing demands and disruption to daily life; ability to attend; and forgetting. Organisational factors included mode of appointment delivery and availability of appointments. CONCLUSIONS Interventions should combine strategies shown to be effective for overcoming practical barriers to attendance (e.g. reminder systems) with novel strategies communicating the benefits of attending and risks of missed appointments (e.g. behaviourally informed messaging). Text reminders containing behaviourally informed messages may be an efficient intervention for targeting perceptual and practical factors associated with missed appointments. Offering appointment modalities to suit individual preference and enabling service-users to remotely cancel/reschedule appointments maight further support a reduction in missed appointments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Heath
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca Clarke
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jonathan Ross
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claire Farrow
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
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Association of Medical Appointment Cancellation Rates on Survival After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer. J Gastrointest Surg 2023; 27:27-34. [PMID: 36289186 PMCID: PMC9607859 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-022-05491-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancelled healthcare appointments, especially in patients with complex cancers, such as esophageal cancer, risk delayed treatment and adverse outcomes. We hypothesized that patients with greater rates of healthcare appointment cancellations would have decreased survival after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. METHODS A retrospective analysis of patients from a single institution who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between 2004 and 2020 was performed. Appointment cancellations were queried 2 years pre-/post-esophagectomy and categorized as medical or ancillary. Continuous and categorical variables were compared by Mann-Whitney and chi-squared analyses, respectively. Survival associations post-esophagectomy were made by Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULT Seventy-six patients were identified. Total medical and ancillary appointments post-esophagectomy increased by 188% and 136%, respectively. Per patient, there was a median increase of 57.5 medical appointments in the post-esophagectomy period. Of medical appointments, 23.7% were cancelled pre-esophagectomy but 33.4% post-esophagectomy (p < 0.001). This trend held true for ancillary appointments. Patients with increased medical cancellation rates post-esophagectomy had shortened recurrence-free (p = 0.09) and overall survival (p < 0.01) versus patients with low cancellation rates. CONCLUSION A significant increase in healthcare appointments is seen after esophagectomy. Patients with increased healthcare appointment cancellations have decreased post-esophagectomy survival which presents an opportunity to intervene in patients who historically have a high cancellation rate.
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Wilson R, Winnard Y. Causes, impacts and possible mitigation of non-attendance of appointments within the National Health Service: a literature review. J Health Organ Manag 2022; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 35918282 DOI: 10.1108/jhom-11-2021-0425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Missed appointments within the National Health Service (NHS) are a drain on resources, associated with not only considerable time and cost implications, but also sub-optimal health outcomes. This literature review aims to explore non-attendance within the NHS in relation to causes, impacts and possible mitigation of negative effects of missed appointments. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus and PubMed were searched with a date range of 2016-2021. Databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published in English addressing non-attendance of adults within the NHS. Studies were excluded if they were theoretical papers, dissertations or research concerning patients aged under 18. A total of 21 articles met the inclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. FINDINGS The results indicate a significant association of non-attendance and poor health outcomes. Patients from a lower socioeconomic status, adults aged over 85 and those with multiple co-morbidities are more likely to miss appointments. The most commonly reported patient-centred reasons for failing to attend were forgetfulness, transportation difficulties, and family commitments. Practice-specific reasons were cited as inefficiencies of the appointment booking system, failure of traditional reminders and inconvenient timings. Interventions included text reminder services, the inclusion of costs within reminders and enhanced patient involvement with the booking process. ORIGINALITY/VALUE Non-attendance is complex, and to secure maximum attendance, targeted interventions are required by healthcare facilities to ensure patient needs are met. The adaption of scheduling systems and healthcare services can assist in reducing DNA rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yvette Winnard
- School of Allied Health, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
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10
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Bamidele OO, Green T, Tookey S, Walabyeki J, Macleod U. A qualitative exploration of women's perspectives and acceptability of including new cancer awareness information in all-clear breast or cervical screening results. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13574. [PMID: 35293051 PMCID: PMC9286386 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13574] [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: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study explored women's perspectives on the acceptability of including new cancer information with an all‐clear breast or cervical screening result letter (using ovarian cancer as a case study). Methods In 2016, six focus group discussions were conducted with women aged 25–70 years old, eligible for invitation to the NHS breast or cervical screening programme and resident in England. The focus groups lasted 60–90 min and were held in community venues. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Thirty‐eight women aged 25–67 years old participated in the focus groups. Data analysis yielded six descriptive themes: general cancer awareness, taking advantage of a ‘teachable moment’, a double‐edge sword, barriers to accepting and using new cancer information, motivators for accepting and using new cancer information and wider strategies to increase cancer awareness in women. Women welcomed the inclusion of new cancer information in all‐clear screening results but highlighted pertinent lessons to be considered to maximise the usefulness of the approach. Conclusion While women perceived this approach as acceptable, it is pertinent to note the potential of the new cancer information to stimulate anxiety and potentially widen inequalities by excluding non‐attenders at screening programmes. Specific complementary and tailored approaches are necessary to mitigate these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olufikayo O Bamidele
- Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Trish Green
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Sara Tookey
- Chartered Clinical Psychologist in Oncology and Palliative Care, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, Greenacres Centre, Department of Clinical Health Psychology, The Hillingdon Hospital, Uxbridge, UK
| | - Julie Walabyeki
- Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Una Macleod
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Jones D, Di Martino E, Bradley SH, Essang B, Hemphill S, Wright JM, Renzi C, Surr C, Clegg A, De Wit N, Neal R. Factors affecting the decision to investigate older adults with potential cancer symptoms: a systematic review. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:e1-e10. [PMID: 34782315 PMCID: PMC8597772 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2021.0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older age and frailty increase the risk of morbidity and mortality from cancer surgery and intolerance of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The effect of old age on diagnostic intervals is unknown; however, older adults need a balanced approach to the diagnosis and management of cancer symptoms, considering the benefits of early diagnosis, patient preferences, and the likely prognosis of a cancer. AIM To examine the association between older age and diagnostic processes for cancer, and the specific factors that affect diagnosis. DESIGN AND SETTING A systematic literature review. METHOD Electronic databases were searched for studies of patients aged >65 years presenting with cancer symptoms to primary care considering diagnostic decisions. Studies were analysed using thematic synthesis and according to the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis guidelines. RESULTS Data from 54 studies with 230 729 participants were included. The majority of studies suggested an association between increasing age and prolonged diagnostic interval or deferral of a decision to investigate cancer symptoms. Thematic synthesis highlighted three important factors that resulted in uncertainty in decisions involving older adults: presence of frailty, comorbidities, and cognitive impairment. Data suggested patients wished to be involved in decision making, but the presence of cognitive impairment and the need for additional time within a consultation were significant barriers. CONCLUSION This systematic review has highlighted uncertainty in the management of older adults with cancer symptoms. Patients and their family wished to be involved in these decisions. Given the uncertainty regarding optimum management of this group of patients, a shared decision-making approach is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jones
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Erica Di Martino
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Blessing Essang
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Scott Hemphill
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Judy M Wright
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Andrew Clegg
- Academic Unit for Ageing & Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Niek De Wit
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Richard Neal
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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12
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Okoli GN, Lam OLT, Reddy VK, Copstein L, Askin N, Prashad A, Stiff J, Khare SR, Leonard R, Zarin W, Tricco AC, Abou-Setta AM. Interventions to improve early cancer diagnosis of symptomatic individuals: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e055488. [PMID: 34753768 PMCID: PMC8578990 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To summarise the current evidence regarding interventions for accurate and timely cancer diagnosis among symptomatic individuals. DESIGN A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodological framework for the conduct of scoping reviews and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost) and PsycINFO (Ovid) bibliographic databases, and websites of relevant organisations. Published and unpublished literature (grey literature) of any study type in the English language were searched for from January 2017 to January 2021. ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA Study participants were individuals of any age presenting at clinics with symptoms indicative of cancer. Interventions included practice guidelines, care pathways or other initiatives focused on achieving predefined benchmarks or targets for wait times, streamlined or rapid cancer diagnostic services, multidisciplinary teams and patient navigation strategies. Outcomes included accuracy and timeliness of cancer diagnosis. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS We summarised findings graphically and descriptively. RESULTS From 21 298 retrieved citations, 88 unique published articles and 16 unique unpublished documents (on 18 study reports), met the eligibility for inclusion. About half of the published literature and 83% of the unpublished literature were from the UK. Most of the studies were on interventions in patients with lung cancer. Rapid referral pathways and technology for supporting and streamlining the cancer diagnosis process were the most studied interventions. Interventions were mostly complex and organisation-specific. Common themes among the studies that concluded intervention was effective were multidisciplinary collaboration and the use of a nurse navigator. CONCLUSIONS Multidisciplinary cooperation and involvement of a nurse navigator may be unique features to consider when designing, delivering and evaluating interventions focused on improving accurate and timely cancer diagnosis among symptomatic individuals. Future research should examine the effectiveness of the interventions identified through this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- George N Okoli
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Otto L T Lam
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Viraj K Reddy
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Leslie Copstein
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Nicole Askin
- Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anubha Prashad
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (the Partnership), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Stiff
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (the Partnership), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Satya Rashi Khare
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (the Partnership), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robyn Leonard
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (the Partnership), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wasifa Zarin
- Knowledge Translation Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea C Tricco
- Knowledge Translation Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Epidemiology Division and Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Queen's Collaboration for Health Care Quality, Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Centre of Excellence at Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ahmed M Abou-Setta
- George and Fay Yee Centre for Healthcare Innovation, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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13
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Helsper CW, Campbell C, Emery J, Neal RD, Li L, Rubin G, van Weert H, Vedsted P, Walter FM, Weller D, Nekhlyudov L. Cancer has not gone away: A primary care perspective to support a balanced approach for timely cancer diagnosis during COVID-19. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 29:e13290. [PMID: 32633887 PMCID: PMC7361158 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles W. Helsper
- Julius CenterUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht UniversityUtrechtthe Netherlands
| | - Christine Campbell
- Usher Institute Old Medical SchoolThe University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Jon Emery
- Centre for Cancer Research and Department of General PracticeUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVICAustralia
| | - Richard D. Neal
- Leeds Institute of Health SciencesUniversity of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Li Li
- Department of Family MedicineSchool of Medicine, University of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVAUSA
| | - Greg Rubin
- Institute of Population Health SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - Henk van Weert
- Department of General PracticeAmsterdam Public HealthAmsterdam University Medical CentreAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | - Peter Vedsted
- The Research Unit for General PracticeAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | - Fiona M. Walter
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary CareUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - David Weller
- Usher Institute Old Medical SchoolThe University of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Larissa Nekhlyudov
- Department of MedicineBrigham and Women’s Hospital Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
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14
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Zermansky AG. Non-attendance for cancer investigation. Br J Gen Pract 2020; 70:60. [PMID: 32001458 PMCID: PMC7018403 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20x707801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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