Current Topic:
Providing Patient Information – Part 1 – Assessing information needs of cancer patients
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Abstract
This first of two modules on patient information considers the information needs of patient and carers. Patient information is an integral part of cancer care but frequently is not seen as a priority in a cost conscious society.
Any conversation between a health professional and a patient will involve the exchange of information. However, it is helpful to remember not to assume that information provided to a patient will necessarily be understood or retained. To reinforce the information given and provide a more permanent record, health professionals can supplement verbal information with information in a variety of different formats – written, visual and audio.
Patients have increasing expectations and are more demanding of health care they want to receive. No longer is the clinician the sole decider of a treatment management plan. As cancer becomes increasingly recognised as a long term condition, information needs go beyond the diagnosis and treatment stages of the illness. Quality of life issues are equally important as questions about outcomes of treatment and prognosis. Therefore we are looking at information needs over what is for many patients, a long period of time. These needs may change over time and it is helpful to consider what factors may influence them.
The advent of the Internet has opened up enormous opportunities for patients and the public searching for health information. Has this made the health professional’s role of providing information redundant? The module will explore the most useful information sources and how health professionals can guide and support patients seeking information.
The main aim of this module is to provide you with knowledge and understanding of the information needs of people affected by cancer, and assessing and meeting those needs.
