'I don't want to hear statistics, I want real life stories': systematic review and thematic synthesis of patient and caregiver experiences of Proton Beam Therapy

Fiddimore, Emma, Harrop, Emily ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2820-0023, Nelson, Annmarie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6075-8425 and Sivell, Stephanie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0253-1860 2023. 'I don't want to hear statistics, I want real life stories': systematic review and thematic synthesis of patient and caregiver experiences of Proton Beam Therapy. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 41 (4) , pp. 434-456. 10.1080/07347332.2022.2136997

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Abstract

Problem Identification Proton Beam Therapy (PBT) is an advanced form of radiotherapy, yet little evidence exists on patient experience to inform decision making and improve future care. We thematically synthesized the qualitative evidence of patient and caregivers’ perceptions and experiences of PBT. Literature Search Five electronic databases were systematically searched, using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords. Two reviewers independently screened search results for qualitative studies relating to patients’ and caregivers’ experiences of PBT. The search generated 4,020 records, of which nine were eligible. Study quality (assessed by CASP checklist) varied. Data Synthesis Qualitative results were analyzed using thematic synthesis. Three main themes were generated: decision making and perceptions, living in the PBT “bubble,” and coping with the cancer treatment journey. Conclusions PBT is not yet widely accessible worldwide, which uniquely influences the patient experience. Our review uncovers areas PBT providers could target to improve patient-centered care; however, additional primary qualitative research is recommended.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Medicine Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre (MCPCRC)
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
ISSN:	0734-7332
Funders:	SS, EH and AN's posts are supported by the Marie Curie Cancer Care core grant funding
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	24 October 2022
Date of Acceptance:	10 October 2022
Last Modified:	18 Nov 2023 16:21
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/153680

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