In:
Quality of Life Research, Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Abstract:
This study aimed to investigate the supportive care needs of Australian melanoma patients and their caregivers to form the basis for improving services. Methods General and melanoma-related supportive care needs in melanoma patients were measured using the SCNS-SF34 and SCNS-M12 respectively, whereas caregivers completed the SCNS-P & C. Patients also completed the MCQ-28 and FCRI-9, with all participants completing the QLQ-C30, DASS-21, and questions measuring utilisation and preference for supportive health services. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with unmet needs in melanoma patients. Results A total of 56 early-stage patients, 100 advanced-stage patients, and 37 caregivers participated. At least three-quarters ( $$\ge$$ ≥ 75%) of each participant group reported at least one unmet need. Of the ten most reported unmet needs in each participant group, at least six ( $$\ge$$ ≥ 60%) were related to psychological and emotional well-being, with access to a psychologist the most desired service ( 〉 25%). Fear of cancer recurrence was equally prevalent in both patient groups at a level indicative of need for intervention. Advanced-stage patients reported significantly (p 〈 0.05) more unmet psychological, physical and daily living, and sexuality needs, and significantly (p 〈 0.05) worse functioning than early-stage patients. Conclusion Australian melanoma patients and caregivers report substantial unmet supportive care needs, particularly regarding their psychological and emotional well-being. Psychological and emotional well-being services, such as access to a clinical psychologist or implementation of patient-reported outcome measures, should be incorporated into routine melanoma care to address unmet patient and caregiver needs and improve well-being.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0962-9343
,
1573-2649
DOI:
10.1007/s11136-023-03492-0
Language:
English
Publisher:
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Publication Date:
2023
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2008960-0
SSG:
5,1
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