Face to face : patient, family and professional perspectives of head and neck cancer care

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The aims of this study were to seek the views of patients, families and professionals of head and neck cancer services, to explore the impact of the condition on their lives and to make recommendations for change where necessary. Recommendations focus on methods of good practice, ways of ensuring consistency and bringing the rest up to the standard of the best. The main findings were that patients reported that information on what to expect and on the side-effects of treatment was often lacking and expressed a need for someone to listen and advise. Professionals acknowledged the value of teamwork and the contribution made by each member. Issues of concern to both patients, families and professionals were inpatient accommodation, internal communication and coordination of services and the acknowledgment of how much patients with head and neck cancer and their families go through. The proposed Calman changes were welcomed by people with cancer, their families and professionals, although professionals had reservations as to the implementation and effect on work patterns. Recommendations are given for purchasers, NHS trusts, head and neck cancer teams and patients and their families. An appendix gives details of the research methods employed in the study.

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