What information do haematologists share with their leukaemia patients?

Abstract

In this study the information which Haematologists share with their leukaemia patients, and the communication skills which they exercise when doing this were examined. Haematlologists' attitudes toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) were also investigated. The literature review showed that doctors are poor communicators and provide insufficient information to their cancer patients. This leads to the possibility of patients not being fully involved in shared decision-making. The literature review showed also that one of the reasons for this lack of shared decision-making is the need for patients to have their information individually tailored. In relation to CAM, the literature review revealed the fact that cancer specialists do not seek information about CAM. Within New Zealand, very few studies have investigated either the informational needs of cancer patients or the information provided by cancer specialists. In this study the aim was to determine whether or not the same situation exists in New Zealand as exists overseas. Data were gathered by means of a qualitative study using face-to-face interviews with thirteen Haematologists, and email questionnaires for two other Haematologists (i.e., just over fifty percent percentage of total practising Haematologists). The results show that Haematologists receive very little training in communication skills for dealing with their leukaemia patients - some of whom are facing premature death. In regard to CAM, Haematologists do not seek any information, and have very little knowledge, about CAM. These findings coincide with those from other studies. The results of this study demonstrate that there is a variety of issues that could to be addressed by Government, Medical Schools, Medical Colleges and hospitals. It is concluded that Haematologists are suspicious about CAM and that conflict between specialists and the Government over promotion and use of CAM is likely to continue. Recommendations are made to (a) the Government, to establish a national information database, and (b) Medical colleges, to develop appropriate training for members in information and communication, and in knowledge about CAM.