Article about Cancer Survivorship in General Practice

Universal Journal of Public Health Vol. 6(2), pp. 73 - 78, 2018
DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2018.060206 

Cancer Survivorship in General Practice - Barriers Encountered by General Practitioners in Ireland

Marie O'Shea, Claire Collins 

ABSTRACT

Cancer survivors may experience a wide range of complex health issues as a result of their cancer type and treatment. With increased rates of health care utilisation compared to non-cancer patients, the transition back into the primary care setting post-cancer treatment can be difficult for both GPs and patients to navigate. To identify the current barriers encountered by GPs in Ireland in the area of cancer survivorship, an online survey of GPs was undertaken. A total of 514 completed surveys were analysed, a response rate of 18.2%, which is typical of response rates from GPs in Ireland and internationally. The majority of GPs had never attended a survivorship course, conference or workshop. Only 17.2% and 19.7% of GPs respectively considered that they had enough information on the possible long-term issues from cancer treatments. Further education on cancer survivorship and improved access to services for GPs is necessary in order for the healthcare system in Ireland to be prepared to provide improved cancer survivorship care.

KEYWORDS
Cancer, Survivorship, General Practice, Family Medicine, Education

To view this article please click on the link below:
http://www.hrpub.org/download/20180228/UJPH6-17611169.pdf