Exploring the Experiences of Patients in the Oncology Care Model

Abstract

PURPOSE: The Oncology Care Model (OCM) was developed to improve care while also supporting patient-centered practices. This model could significantly affect experiences of patients with cancer; however, previous studies have not explored patient perspectives. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study used focus group and survey methodology to explore patient experiences in the OCM. The sample included 213 patients (OCM patients, n = 130 recruited within OCM practices; non-OCM patients, n = 83 recruited via e-mail from the Cancer Support Community Cancer Experience Registry). RESULTS: Findings suggest that patients in OCM practices were more likely to report that their cancer care team asked about social/emotional distress or concerns and more likely to have social/emotional resources offered. OCM patients were also more likely to have discussed advance directives with providers. They were also more likely to be satisfied with provider explanations of treatment benefits as well as treatment risks and adverse effects. Lastly, OCM patients were significantly more satisfied with discussion of treatment costs and provided higher ratings of preparation by their cancer care team for management of adverse effects. CONCLUSION: Patients in this study reported experiences consistent with many of the key goals of the OCM. This is promising and may indicate the need to expand the model. However, because of the potential selection bias of our sampling method, more research is needed.