Responding to rising cancer caseloads: family physician learning needs and challenges in cancer care.
BACKGROUND
In this study, we addressed physicians' learning needs and practice challenges throughout the continuum of cancer care using an interprofessional approach.


METHODS
Data sources and tools included (1) 150 family physician questionnaires, (2) 11 oncologist interviews, (3) 13 focus groups with 125 health care providers, and (4) secondary sources.


RESULTS
Family physicians wish to play a larger role in their cancer patients' care. Their self-reported learning needs were confirmed by other data sources. Important practice and systemic challenges to improving care exist.


CONCLUSIONS
Decreasing cancer rates and improving cancer care are complex issues requiring educational interventions as well as organizational and communications initiatives.
Sargeant
Joan
J
Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Continued Medical Education. joan.sargeant@dal.ca
Murray
Anne
A
Gray
Jean
J
Ferrier
Suzanne
S
Barnard
Dorothy
D
Padmos
Andrew
A
Loney
Elaine
E
D000328:Adult; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003142:Communication; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000193:education*; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009674:Nova Scotia; D010821:Physicians, Family / Q000193:education*; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires