Impact of primary care provider knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about cancer clinical trials: Implications for referral, education and advocacy Journal Article


Authors: Michaels, M.; D'Agostino, T. A.; Blakeney, N.; Weiss, E. S.; Binz-Scharf, M. C.; Golant, M.; Bylund, C. L.
Article Title: Impact of primary care provider knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about cancer clinical trials: Implications for referral, education and advocacy
Abstract: Primary Care Providers (PCPs) can be instrumental in helping to prepare patients for referral to cancer treatment. It has been suggested that PCPs can have an important impact on priming patients about the possibility of receiving care within a cancer treatment clinical trial (CCT). However, little is understood about how to effectively engage primary care providers in educating patients about trials. Data were collected as part of two qualitative research projects about primary care providers’ role in referral to treatment and to CCTs. Participants were 27 PCPs who agreed to take part in qualitative face-to-face or telephone interviews and serve predominantly underserved, minority populations. Interviews identified a number of factors influencing referral to oncologists, including patients’ insurance coverage, location and proximity to treatment facilities, and the strength of ongoing relationships with and/or previous experience with a specialist. PCPs overwhelmingly expressed disinterest in discussing any treatment options, including CCTs. Misconceptions about quality of care received through trials were also common, presenting a deterrent to discussion. PCPs need targeted, evidence-based educational interventions to appropriately address their concerns about cancer clinical trials, enhance provider communication skills, and alter patient referral behavior. Steps must also be taken to strengthen communication between oncologists and referring PCPs. © 2014, Springer Science+Business Media New York.
Keywords: primary care; clinical trials; cancer
Journal Title: Journal of Cancer Education
Volume: 30
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0885-8195
Publisher: Springer  
Date Published: 2015-03-01
Start Page: 152
End Page: 157
Language: English
DOI: 10.1007/s13187-014-0662-6
PROVIDER: scopus
PUBMED: 24805229
PMCID: PMC5417332
DOI/URL:
Notes: Export Date: 2 September 2015 -- Source: Scopus
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