What are the Barriers and Enablers of Survivorship Care Plan Use by Breast and Colorectal Cancer Survivors?

BACKGROUND

Survivorship care plans (SCPs) have been recommended after treatment as transition tools for low-risk cancer survivors, but research on their efficacy has been inconclusive. This study aimed to identify barriers and enablers for cancer survivors use of SCPs.

METHOD: Interview guides were developed based on the Theoretical Domains Framework. Breast and colorectal cancer survivors (n = 30) who had been discharged from the cancer centre to primary care were interviewed. Data analysis involved deductive content and inductive thematic approaches.

RESULTS

Enablers of SCP use included survivors 1) finding that SCPs are a reassuring resource that contains relevant information to guide follow-up care; 2) discussing SCPs with their primary care providers; 3) recognizing their follow-up care as one's own responsibility; and 4) having the purpose of SCPs explained to them. Barriers included 1) misplacing their SCP; 2) difficulty accepting discharge to primary care; and 3) wanting continued follow-up from oncology specialists.

CONCLUSIONS

Survivors need education on their role in actively managing their care, what to expect in follow-up care, and the purpose and use of SCPs.