Telehealth cancer care consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study of the experiences of Australians affected by cancer

• DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07021-6
• Publication Date: 2022-05-03T08:02:56Z
• Authors: Victoria White; Alice Bastable; Ilana Solo; Seleena Sherwell; Sangeetha Thomas; Rob Blum; Javier Torres; Natalie Maxwell-D...; Kathy Alexander; Amanda Piper
• Keywords: Pandemic; Pain medicine; Telehealth; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

Abstract Background In response to the onset of COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth was rapidly rolled out in health services across Australia including those delivering cancer care. This study aimed understand people with and carers’ experiences for care during pandemic associated restrictions. Method Semi-structured interviews conducted carers via telephone or online video link between December 2020 May 2021. Participants were recruited through networks social media. Interviews transcribed thematic analysis undertaken. Results Twenty-three patients 5 interviewed. Telephone-based appointments most common. Responses influenced by existing relationships doctors, treatment/cancer stage type appointment. Four themes derived: (i) benefits, (ii) quality concerns, (iii) involving carers, (iv) optimising use telehealth. Benefits included efficiency reduced travel. Quality concerns identified subthemes: transactional feel appointments; difficulties rapport; suitability appointment adequacy monitoring. Both noted a lack opportunity participate telephone-based appointments. Aligning mode (i.e. person) purpose ensuring patient’s choice seen as essential its ongoing use. Discussion conclusions While has potential reduce interactions clinicians made it less attractive patients. Patient-centred guidelines that ensure patient choice, communication, alignment may help increase telehealth’s utility affected cancer.