Experiences and health care preferences of women with ovarian cancer during the diagnosis phase

Abstract

Objective: An ovarian cancer diagnosis presents physical and psychological challenges. Usually identified at an advanced stage, the disease involves invasive treatment and has a high mortality rate. The diagnosis phase is generally a time of heightened distress. Accordingly, the aim of this qualitative study was to explore the health care experiences and preferences of women with ovarian cancer during this phase, and identify opportunities to enhance women's experiences and outcomes.Methods: Thirty-four women diagnosed with ovarian cancer were recruited from across Australia (median age = 60.5 years, range = 31-74 years). Semistructured interviews explored participants' experience of health care services and preferences during the diagnosis phase. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts followed.Results: Five themes were identified including "navigating uncertainty" which summarized women's general experiences throughout the diagnosis phase and provided a context for concomitant health care preferences. Four other themes highlighted significant areas where health care may be better aligned with women's preferences.These included "responsiveness in health care," "relational communication," "personcentered information," and "preparation for living beyond cancer treatment."Conclusions: Responsive and prompt health care services that employ relational communication, provide patient-centered information, and prepare women for survivorship could improve the health care experiences of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

The impact of ovarian cancer on individuals and their caregivers: A qualitative analysis

“…These corroborates past findings that perceived control over the illness is predicts less emotional distress 26 . Control could manifest through the need to restore a sense of normality in their lives or self‐advocacy 2,22,27 . For a few individuals, distress associated with the uncertainties of their illness manifested in uncontrolled worry that preoccupied them and became all‐consuming.…”

“…The sense of isolation that emerged from these complex unmet needs is particularly striking. Consistent with previous studies, individuals frequently dissented against the lack of specialized support for ovarian cancer 3,6,22,24 . They often noted the lack of specific healthcare professionals and support groups 2,3,5 .…”

“…Fears were exacerbated by the poor prognosis and limited treatment options. The dearth of knowledge and support structures from the healthcare system contributed to frustrations of being isolated 21,22 . The availability and access to healthcare information tailored was crucial to addressing the individual's fears 22 .…”

“…The dearth of knowledge and support structures from the healthcare system contributed to frustrations of being isolated 21,22 . The availability and access to healthcare information tailored was crucial to addressing the individual's fears 22 . Transparent and balanced information allowed individuals to build trusting relationships with their healthcare providers, which served as a protective factor 23 …”

Lifestyle and reproductive health: the aetiology of ovarian cancer in Pakistan

“…Endpoints must represent the disease agent involved and rely on the quality of life ( Wilson et al , 2017 ). Responsive and timely health care facilities that use relational communication, could enhance women's health experience with ovarian cancer ( Jelicic et al , 2019 ).…”