Placing patients first : evaluating perspectives on patient-centered care (PCC) from individuals receiving external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) in Malta

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the perspectives of individuals receiving external beam radiotherapy treatment in Malta regarding the implementation of patient-centered care (PCC) principles from cancer diagnosis to their final week of treatment. The secondary aim was to examine whether specific socio-demographic factors (age, sex, marital status, education level, and treatment area) influenced perceived PCC. Methodology This study adopted a cross-sectional, prospective, non-experimental and quantitative design whereby 43 patients were accessed during their final week of external beam radiotherapy treatment through non-probability convenience sampling. Perspectives on encounters with healthcare providers (HCPs) who deliver patient-centered care were assessed using an established questionnaire. To evaluate the practicality of this research and ensuring patients could fully complete the questionnaire, a pilot study was conducted. The questionnaire was completed by 42 patients, and the responses were evaluated through IBM SPSS version 29. Results A total of 42 valid questionnaires were received. The highest mean ratings were for ‘Respectful Communication’, ‘Treatment Delivery’, and ‘Cancer Information’, whilst the factor with the lowest mean rating score was ‘Patient Preference and Values’. Statistically significant associations were observed between particular dimensions and the participants’ sex and educational levels. Conclusions Findings on patient perspectives regarding areas where PCC was most and least commonly delivered, as influenced by demographics, were obtained using the QPCCC questionnaire. Patients’ mean rating scores demonstrated needs for improvement, along with PCC domains where good quality of care should be continued. Implications for Practice This research showcases the need to improve PCC delivery by addressing patient preferences, values, and shared decision-making. Results suggest sex- and education level-based variations in areas of care, such as respectful communication and regard for preferences and values. Locally, efforts are needed to bridge gaps between HCPs and patients to ensure equitable care across all demographics while addressing individualistic needs.