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Objective: To investigate the experience of specialist hospital follow- up among 109 women with breast cancer in remission. Methods: Qualitative interviews explored views of follow-up at an outpatient clinic. Results: Continuity of care and an unrushed consultation were considered to be both desirable and efficient. There were concerns that discontinuity led to a lack of personal and case familiarity and communication difficulties. Access to cancer expertise, the availability of diagnostic tests and specialist facilities were valued features of hospital follow-up, and further analysis indicated that this was particularly important in the early stages of follow- up. Discussion: A preference for continuity of care may suggest that GP follow-up would be preferred, but access to specialist services is valued and may be of particular importance during the early stages of follow-up. The diversity of patients' needs during follow-up must be recognised when formulating policy.

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/(SICI)1099-1611(1998090)7:5<436::AID-PON319>3.0.CO;2-C

Type

Journal article

Journal

Psycho-Oncology

Publication Date

10/11/1998

Volume

7

Pages

436 - 439