title: A qualitative exploration of the role of primary care in supporting colorectal cancer patients.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To explore experiences and support needs of people with colorectal cancer, with a focus on identifying opportunities for primary care interventions.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted a new qualitative analysis of an existing dataset, comprising semi-structured interview transcripts from 39 people with colorectal cancer from across the UK, interviewed in 2001-2002 for                      www.healthtalkonline.org                                        . Then, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 people with colorectal cancer from North East Scotland and Glasgow in 2009 and analysed these new data to explore themes and challenge hypotheses that emerged from the Healthtalkonline data.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Formal sources of support, including that from primary care, were valued by those who received them, but provision was described as sporadic both in 2002 and in 2009. However, more of the 2009 participants gave descriptions of specialist nurse and community nurse involvement, and telephone contact from general practitioners, which were welcomed. Improvements in meeting information needs, particularly on the issues of diet and sex, were identified by 2009. A recurring issue reported by patients was the distress experienced by their own friends and family; some patients found themselves having to provide, rather than receive, emotional support at this difficult time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There have been improvements in support for people with colorectal cancer since 2002, with more specialist and community nurse involvement, and telephone contact from general practitioners, but provision remains piecemeal. Patients would benefit if their families received support, and primary care may be in a good position to provide this. A proactive approach from general practitioners in the post-discharge period is valued.
authors.affiliation: Academic Primary Care, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK.
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.forename: Nicola
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Gray
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Browne
authors.forename: Sue
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ziebland
authors.forename: Neil C
authors.initials: NC
authors.lastname: Campbell
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D059017:Primary Care Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000379:methods*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D006113:United Kingdom