Exploring the patient journey of colorectal cancer patients: insights from qualitative analyses in the Netherlands

Abstract

Purpose: As supportive care in colorectal cancer (CRC) is not protocolled, a variety of different supportive approaches are used. This qualitative study gains insight in the CRC patient journey of patients treated in the Netherlands.Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of the mixed-methods study by Voigt et al. The aim was to analyse the qualitative data from two focus groups and five interviews to explore patients’ experiences throughout the CRC care pathway. Data were organised using Atlas.ti_23.1.Results: The researchers identified two main themes, “personal life & emotional impact” and “healthcare system” and associated subthemes, from the data on the three phases of the patient journey from the interviews (n = 5) and two focus groups (n = 14). Positive experiences were linked to structured care and close contact with healthcare providers, particularly case managers. Negative experiences stemmed from insufficient information, miscommunication, and unmet psychosocial needs.Conclusions: A recurring subtheme was the need for improved care coordination and information provision. While case managers were valued, sustainable alternatives must be found, to reduce the current pressure on the health care system.Implications for Cancer Survivors: This study underscores the need for better communication, information, and personalized care in current practice for CRC survivors.

Keywords

• Experiences
• colorectal cancer
• supportive care