Involving community pharmacies in management of late effects of cancer treatment: Opinions from cancer survivors.

Abstract

Background

More than 50 % of cancer survivors experience late effects of cancer (LEC). Current models of follow-up care often prove inadequate, resulting in unresolved LEC. Given the pivotal role of community pharmacists as the most accessible healthcare professionals and the demonstrated benefits of evidence-based pharmacy services on patient centered care, exploring the potential contribution of community pharmacies in managing LEC is relevant.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate cancer survivors' needs, preferences, and attitudes regarding pharmacy involvement in managing LEC.

Method

The developed questionnaire based on validated instruments underwent a pilot test among cancer survivors at four Danish community pharmacies. In August 2021, the questionnaire was distributed to all 611 cancer survivors of the Danish Cancer Society's cancer patient panel. The resulting quantitative data were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis, while qualitative data underwent a thematic content analysis.

Results

Among the 611 panel members, 354 responded to the questionnaire (response rate 58 %). Fatigue was the most frequent LEC experienced by 88 % of respondents. Three out of four (75 %) of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the level of counseling they had received regarding LEC, and 23 % disclosed not having discussed LEC with a healthcare professional despite feeling the need to do so. Nearly all respondents visited pharmacies annually and used available products to alleviate LEC. Approximately half of respondents expressed a need for counseling on the appropriate use of these products. While nearly half of respondents were receptive to pharmacy-based counseling, concerns regarding discretion and staff knowledge were prevalent.

Conclusion

Cancer survivors experience an insufficiency in counseling on LEC and demonstrate an openness towards involving community pharmacies in addressing this gap. However, further investigation is warranted to delineate survivors' specific needs and expectations regarding community pharmacy involvement in LEC management. Additionally, suggestions from survivors underscore the importance of enhancing pharmacy staff knowledge and establishing discreet counseling areas.