The information needs of breast cancer patients in hong kong and their levels of satisfaction with the provision of information

Abstract

Background: Information is vital for patients in overcoming cancer and making decisions about their treatment plans, but little is known about the information needs of Chinese breast cancer patients and their satisfaction with the information provided. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to examine the priority of information needs perceived by participants and the demographic and clinical factors that affect the priority of information needs such as prioritization, the utilization of and satisfaction with different sources of information, and satisfaction with the information provided by health care professionals. Methods: A self-administered survey was used, including sources of information, an Information Needs Questionnaire-Chinese version, and patients' satisfaction with the information provided by health care professionals. Results: Participants (n = 374) ranked the likelihood of cure, spread of the disease, and treatment options as the 3 most important information needs. They had mostly been using the information sources available in the hospital. Despite health care professionals being ranked as a highly satisfying source of information, participants perceived different levels of satisfaction with the various types of information provided. Conclusion: Participants perceived information about the illness itself and about treatment as most important. They preferred to use sources available in the hospital, but the satisfaction rates associated with information provided by health care professionals were relatively low. Implications for Practice: This study provides useful information about what patients really want to know and a potential basis for developing more effective models to deliver information and support to breast cancer patients. Identification of the actual needs of these patients can produce better resource allocation and provide health services more efficiently to meet those needs. Copyright © 2010 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.