Are we addressing patients' needs in radiation oncology practice? Results of patients' satisfaction pilot survey

Abstract

This pilot research project investigates if cancer patients are satisfied with the information they receive about radiotherapy and provides some suggestions how to improve the information patients receive about radiotherapy treatment. A patient survey was developed and administered to follow-up patients to assess their satisfaction with the quality of information they received about radiotherapy. Twenty-five patients were approached and nineteen completed the survey. The patients were very satisfied with the information given. In addition, our patients felt that the “right amount” of information was given and that the information provided was consistent among the team members. However, the information needs of non-English speaking patients need to be explored further. Due to language barrier, many non- English speaking patients were not able to participate in this study. Also, this pilot study helped us to identify areas for improvement. Hopefully, future studies will implement and evaluate these challenges. As we move towards greater patient-centered care, it is important that we customize our practice to meet each patient's needs.