Priorities to improve cancer caregiving: report of a caregiver stakeholder workshop
DOI
10.1007/s00520-020-05760-y
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
5-1-2021
Publication Title
Supportive Care in Cancer
Volume
29
Issue
5
First Page
2423
Last Page
2434
ISSN
9414355
Keywords
Behavioral science, Cancer, Family caregivers, Neoplasms, Supportive care
Abstract
Purpose: Caregivers of people with cancer represent a large, overburdened, and under-recognized part of the cancer care workforce. Research efforts to address the unmet needs of these caregivers are expanding with studies focused on caregivers’ skill sets, physical and psychological health, and integration into healthcare delivery. As this field of research continues to expand, integrating caregivers’ input is vital to studies to ensure that research aligns with their experiences. Methods: This is a focus group study of 15 cancer caregivers conducted during a cancer caregiving workshop at the University of Pittsburgh in February 2020. During the workshop, caregivers reviewed, critiqued, and proposed priorities to support caregivers of adults with cancer. We used a multistage consensus building approach to identify priority areas of research and clinical practice to address caregivers’ experiences and needs. We used descriptive content analysis to summarize caregivers’ priorities. Results: Caregiver-identified priorities included (1) training and information about cancer and treatment, (2) caregiver integration into the patient’s healthcare delivery, (3) assistance with navigating the healthcare system, (4) focus on caregiver health and well-being, and (5) policy reform to address caregiver needs. We identified ways in which these priorities can inform cancer caregiving research and practice. Conclusion: These recommendations should be considered by researchers, clinicians, cancer center leadership, and policymakers interested in creating caregiver-focused research protocols, interventions, and support systems.
Open Access
Green Accepted
Preprint
Repository Citation
Thomas, T., Campbell, G., Lee, Y., Roberge, M., Kent, E., Steel, J., Posluszny, D., Arida, J., Belcher, S., Sherwood, P., & Donovan, H. (2021). Priorities to improve cancer caregiving: report of a caregiver stakeholder workshop. Supportive Care in Cancer, 29 (5), 2423-2434. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-020-05760-y