A multi-centre survey of New Zealand cancer patients' preferences for radiation treatment information

Introduction

Patients undergoing radiation therapy have a diverse range of information needs, however, there is a lack of data specific to the needs of New Zealand patients. This cross-sectional survey captured New Zealand cancer patients' preferences for radiation treatment information. Preferences were assessed regarding the scope of information needs and the satisfaction with which these needs were being met.

Methods

A custom survey was offered to 275 eligible patients undergoing radiation treatment at six of 10 departments across New Zealand over a 2-day period. The survey captured patient demographics as well as information needs and satisfaction across five distinct domains using Likert scales and one free-text question. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and directed content analysis.

Results

Over 80% of participants rated all information domains as extremely or very important. Over 90% of participants were extremely satisfied or very well satisfied in four of the five domains. Information on what happens after radiation treatment had the lowest satisfaction at 78%. No demographic subcategories were clearly associated with differences in information needs or satisfaction. 59% of participants indicated their willingness to engage in online education. The qualitative analysis strongly corroborated the quantitative results.

Conclusion

The New Zealand cancer patients surveyed in this study demonstrated high levels of importance and satisfaction with the information provided during radiation treatment. Information on what happens after completing radiation treatment had the lowest satisfaction. These findings support further exploration of New Zealand cancer patients' information needs following radiation treatment as well as strategies to address them.