Does writing a list help cancer patients ask relevant questions?

Patient Educ Couns. 2002 Aug;47(4):369-71. doi: 10.1016/s0738-3991(02)00011-3.

Abstract

We examined the use of written lists to give patients an opportunity to have their questions answered. Patients undergoing radical radiotherapy for cancer were given a sheet of paper with the simple prompt to write questions and give to the hospital doctor at their appointment 3 weeks later. At 3 months, patients were asked about their use and opinions of the written list. About half of the 478 patients attended with a written list. Fewer patients living in deprived areas used the list compared to more affluent areas. Doctors thought that 34% of patients would not otherwise have asked those questions and 91% of prompted discussions were a worthwhile use of time.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / psychology
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods*
  • Patient Participation / methods*
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Physician-Patient Relations
  • Prognosis
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*