title: Oncology healthcare professionals' perspectives on the psychosocial support needs of cancer patients during oncology treatment.
abstract: This study explored oncology healthcare professionals' perspectives on the psychosocial support needs of diverse cancer patients during oncology treatment. Six themes were identified using thematic analysis. Healthcare professionals highlighted the importance of their sensitivity, respect and emotional tact during appointments in order to effectively identify and meet the needs of oncology patients. Participants also emphasised the importance of building rapport that recognises patients as people. Patients' acceptance of treatment-related distress and uncertainty was described as required for uptake of available psychosocial supportive services. We offer some practical implications that may help improve cancer patients' experiences during oncology treatment.
authors.affiliation: 1 University of Otago, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Bruno E
authors.initials: BE
authors.lastname: Aldaz
authors.affiliation: 1 University of Otago, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Gareth J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Treharne
authors.affiliation: 1 University of Otago, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Robert G
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Knight
authors.affiliation: 1 University of Otago, New Zealand.
authors.forename: Tamlin S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Conner
authors.affiliation: 2 Dunedin Hospital, New Zealand.
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Perez
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations
keywords: cancer treatment; healthcare professionals; oncology; support needs; thematic analysis