Experiences and preferences of patients visiting a head and neck oncology outpatient clinic: a qualitative study

Jeroen A. S. Bisschop*, Fabienne R. Kloosterman, Janneke E. van Leijen-Zeelenberg, Geert Willem Huismans, Bernd Kremer, Kenneth W. Kross

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The objective of this study is to report on an in-depth evaluation of patient experiences and preferences at a Head and Neck Oncology outpatient clinic. A qualitative research design was used to determine the experiences and preferences of Head and Neck Cancer patients in an Oncology Outpatient Clinic, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands. Head and Neck Cancer Patients, treated for at least 6 months at the Oncology Clinic, were included. A qualitative research design with patient interviews was used. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim to increase validity. Analysis was done with use of the template approach and qualitative data analysis software. Three of the six dimensions predominated in the interview: (1) respect for patients' values, preferences and expressed need, (2) information, communication and education and (3) involvement of family and friends. The dimensions physical comfort; emotional support; coordination and integration of care were considered to be of less significance. The findings from this study resulted in a deeper understanding of patients' experiences and preferences and can be useful in the transition towards a more patient-centered approach of health care.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2245-2252
Number of pages8
JournalEuropean Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
Volume274
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2017

Keywords

  • Patient preferences
  • Oncology
  • Qualitative research
  • Patient-centered care
  • Head and neck
  • SUCCESSFULLY TREATED HEAD
  • CENTERED CARE
  • CANCER PATIENTS
  • OF-LIFE
  • HEALTH-CARE
  • COMMUNICATION
  • INTERVENTION
  • COORDINATION
  • MEDICINE
  • POLICY

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