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An internet method to assess cancer patient information needs and enhance doctor-patient communication: A pilot study

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Abstract

Background. We previously reported that doctor-patient communication in the cancer context may be suboptimal. We therefore developed measures to assess patient communication preferences and established feasibility of an Internet-based intervention to improve communication.Methods. Cancer patients completed an Internet-based survey about communication preferences, with a summary provided to the physician before the consultations. Patients completed a follow-up survey to assess consultation content and satisfaction.Results. Study procedures were feasible, measures exhibited strong internal consistency, and patients expressed satisfaction with the intervention.Conslusion. The Internet offers an opportunity to assess patient preferences and prompt physicians about individual patient informational needs prior to the clinical encounter.J Cancer Educ. 2007; 22:233–240.

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Author notes

  1. Neal J. Meropol MD

    Present address: Division of Medical Science and Population Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, 19111, Philadelphia, PA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Medical Science and Population Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, 19111, Philadelphia, PA

    Joanne S. Buzaglo PHD, Jannifer L. Millard BS, Caroline G. Ridgway BA, Eric A. Ross PHD, Susan P. Antaramian BS & Suzanne M. Miller PHD

  2. Medical Science, Philadelphia, PA

    Neal J. Meropol MD

Authors
  1. Joanne S. Buzaglo PHD
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  2. Jannifer L. Millard BS
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  3. Caroline G. Ridgway BA
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  4. Eric A. Ross PHD
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  5. Susan P. Antaramian BS
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  6. Suzanne M. Miller PHD
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  7. Neal J. Meropol MD
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Additional information

Supported by the following grants from the National Cancer Institute: R01 CA-82085 (NJM) and the Fox Chase Cancer Center Behavioral Research Core Facility and Population Studies Facility (P30CA06927).

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Buzaglo, J.S., Millard, J.L., Ridgway, C.G. et al. An internet method to assess cancer patient information needs and enhance doctor-patient communication: A pilot study. J Canc Educ 22, 233 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03174122

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03174122

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