Differences Between Primary Care Physicians’ and Oncologists’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding the Care of Cancer Survivors

Abstract

There are significant differences in PCPs' and oncologists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices with respect to care of cancer survivors. Improving cancer survivors' care may require more effective communication between these two groups to increase PCPs' confidence in their knowledge, and must also address oncologists' attitudes regarding PCPs' ability to care for cancer survivors.

Primary Care Physicians’ Perspectives of Their Role in Cancer Care: A Systematic Review

“…53 PCPs questioned the practicality and efficiency of a standardised proactive model of care, showing preference for a demand-driven approach. 47 50,63 ; however, about half felt unprepared to manage longterm side-effects 40 or conduct surveillance for recurrence. 60 In general, high levels of confidence were reported for tasks such as pain management, 55 conveying bad news 71 and psychological support.…”

“…60 In general, high levels of confidence were reported for tasks such as pain management, 55 conveying bad news 71 and psychological support. 50,63,64,67 However, lower levels of training or knowledge were reported for areas such as surveillance testing, 60 active treatment or surgery 38,54 and advising on complementary therapies, 61 leading to a reluctance to fulfil such roles.…”

“…78 % agreed that they usually do not receive any information on the goals and procedures of follow-up as dictated by the specialist. Potosky 63 United States 1072 * Cross-sectional questionnaire survey of a nationally representative sample of PCPs and medical oncologists.…”

Use of Physician Services during the Survivorship Phase: A Multi-Province Study of Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

“…Oncologists might also be reluctant to completely transition follow-up care to pcps. In fact, prior research has shown that oncologists lack confidence in the ability of pcps to detect recurrence and to care for late effects of cancer treatment 18 and that most do not believe that pcps should be responsible for follow-up care 19 . Multiple-provider follow-up care might also be a result of confusion on the part of providers and survivors alike about who is responsible for follow-up care.…”

Institute of Medicine Recommendations for Improving the Quality of Cancer Care: What Do They Mean for the General Internist?

“…For example, recent studies suggest knowledge gaps in late effects of cancer treatment and strategies for surveillance for recurrences. [21][22][23][24] Training is needed so general internists can fully collaborate in the care for patients receiving cancer treatment and during survivorship. Educational programs and resources are available.…”