Improving the Content of, and Patient Access to, Prostate Cancer Treatment Decision Information

Abstract

Background and Significance: Physicians remain a key source of information regarding treatment options for men with a prostate cancer diagnosis, yet no known in-depth interview research has been conducted on the kind of information they want to provide patients, or how to reach them with new materials. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with eight physicians (i.e., four urologists, three family practice physicians, and one medical oncologist) to identify areas of improvement regarding prostate cancer treatment information and how to best reach physicians with such information, in hopes they will pass the materials along to their patients. Results: Physicians indicated they would be receptive to representatives from agencies contacting them directly (e.g., in-person, via phone, email) to get information to distribute to patients; however those representatives must be diligent in their attempts. Additionally, physicians stated information created should be neutral in content and easy for patients to comprehend. Conclusion: Expending resources to continually create and revise materials is ineffective if health promotion agencies cannot get their messages in-front of patients. Agencies should devote as much effort disseminating their resources as they do in creating them. Targeting physicians for dissemination efforts is just one step in helping men and families make more informed decisions about their treatment options.