Prospects for implementing the European Code of Cancer Practice: Lessons from Poland.

BACKGROUND

The European Code of Cancer Practice (ECCP) defines ten patient rights to improve equity, quality, and patient-centeredness in cancer care. Evidence on its national implementation is limited, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the perceived feasibility of implementing the ECCP in Poland.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional online survey in 2024 among oncology specialists and psycho-oncologists. Respondents rated the feasibility of each ECCP right on a 5-point Likert scale and provided free-text comments. Quantitative ratings were summarized descriptively, and qualitative responses were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 225 respondents provided feasibility ratings and 345 optional free-text comments. The rights judged most feasible were access to information about disease and treatment, participation in treatment decisions, and discussion of personal priorities. The most difficult were equal access to optimal care (including second opinions), structured survivorship and rehabilitation planning, and multidisciplinary team care. Reported barriers included staff shortages, limited consultation time, unequal access to diagnostics and therapies, and cultural attitudes.

CONCLUSIONS

ECCP implementation in Poland requires addressing workforce, organizational, and cultural barriers. Priorities include a national clinical trial registry, expanded multidisciplinary units, improved rehabilitation and palliative care, and systematic communication training. These actions are feasible and transferable to other European health systems.