Clinician perspectives on communication and implementation challenges in precision oncology Journal Article


Authors: Hamilton, J. G.; Banerjee, S. C.; Carlsson, S. V.; Vera, J.; Lynch, K. A.; Sar-Graycar, L.; Martin, C. M.; Parker, P. A.; Hay, J. L.
Article Title: Clinician perspectives on communication and implementation challenges in precision oncology
Abstract: Aim: To describe patient communication challenges encountered by oncology clinicians, which represent a fundamental barrier to implementing precision oncology. Materials & methods: We conducted three focus groups including breast, melanoma and thoracic oncology clinicians regarding their precision oncology communication experiences. Transcripts were reviewed and coded using inductive thematic text analysis. Results: We identified four themes: varied definitions of precision oncology exist, clinicians and patients face unique challenges to precision oncology implementation, patient communication challenges engendered or heightened by precision oncology implementation and clinician communication solutions and training needs. Conclusion: This study elucidated clinicians' perspectives on implementing precision oncology and related communication challenges. Understanding these challenges and developing strategies to help clinicians navigate these discussions are critical for ensuring that patients reap the full benefits of precision oncology. Lay abstract Aim: 'Precision oncology' has gained momentum as a term to describe cancer care that is optimized for an individual patient based on her/his unique characteristics. However, clinicians may encounter challenges with communication when delivering precision oncology care to patients and their families. Materials & methods: We conducted three focus groups, or structured discussions, with breast, melanoma and thoracic oncology clinicians regarding their precision oncology communication experiences. Narrative transcripts of these discussions were analyzed by the research team to identify common themes. Results: We identified four themes: varied definitions of precision oncology exist, clinicians and patients face unique challenges to precision oncology implementation, patient communication challenges engendered or heightened by precision oncology implementation, and clinician communication solutions and training needs. Conclusion: This study elucidated clinicians' perspectives on delivering precision oncology and related communication challenges. Understanding these challenges and developing strategies to help clinicians navigate these discussions are critical for ensuring that patients reap the full benefits of precision oncology.
Keywords: communication; qualitative research; personalized medicine; impact; cancer; precision medicine; precision oncology
Journal Title: Personalized Medicine
Volume: 18
Issue: 6
ISSN: 1741-0541
Publisher: Future Medicine  
Date Published: 2021-11-01
Start Page: 559
End Page: 572
Language: English
ACCESSION: WOS:000709816700001
DOI: 10.2217/pme-2021-0048
PROVIDER: wos
PMCID: PMC8607478
PUBMED: 34674550
Notes: Article -- Source: Wos
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  1. Smita Banerjee
    124 Banerjee
  2. Jennifer L Hay
    264 Hay
  3. Sigrid Viktoria Carlsson
    220 Carlsson
  4. Jada Gabrielle Hamilton
    111 Hamilton
  5. Patricia Ann Parker
    91 Parker
  6. Kathleen A Lynch
    71 Lynch
  7. Chloe Marie Martin
    9 Martin
  8. Jacqueline A Vera
    10 Vera