Barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts for Swedish cancer survivors: a cross-sectional survey.
Two-thirds of Swedish cancer survivors reported barriers to satisfactory primary care, primarily due to lack of staff continuity.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the eloralintide corpusSummary and findings
This study explored barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts among Swedish cancer survivors. A total of 2131 individuals responded to a questionnaire assessing their experiences with primary care. Two-thirds reported one or more barriers, with lack of staff continuity being the most prevalent at 48%.
Abstract
<h4>Background</h4>The number of cancer survivors is increasing, but their health care needs are often unmet. Increased involvement of primary care has been suggested to address this. Several barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts for cancer survivors have been identified but little studied in a Swedish context.<h4>Aim</h4>To explore barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts for Swedish cancer survivors, and factors associated with these barriers.<h4>Method</h4>In 2023, patients in southern Sweden diagnosed with colorectal, lung, breast, or prostate cancer 1-2 or 5-6 years ago were invited to complete a digital questionnaire. The questionnaire covered quality of life, health problems, health care needs, and health care contacts. Respondents also rated the extent to which they had experienced six types of barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts. Logistic regression models were fitted to explore the relationship between barriers and other questionnaire variables.<h4>Results</h4>A total of 8262 individuals were invited, and 2131 responded. Two-thirds (1429/2131; 67%) reported one or more barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts. Lack of <i>staff continuity</i> was most prevalent, with 48% (1031/2131) experiencing a barrier, followed by lack of <i>access.</i> Survivors with additional comorbidities, more cancer-related health problems, problem-induced primary care contacts, and those who lacked a regular primary care physician had higher odds of perceiving barriers than their counterparts. This also applied to participants who did not have an active handover compared to those still in treatment.<h4>Conclusion</h4>From the perspective of Swedish cancer survivors, improved relational continuity and access to primary care is needed.
Background
The increasing number of cancer survivors presents challenges in meeting their health care needs. Previous studies have identified barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts, but limited research exists in the Swedish context. Understanding these barriers is essential for improving health care delivery for this population.
Methods
This cross-sectional survey involved cancer survivors diagnosed with colorectal, lung, breast, or prostate cancer 1-2 or 5-6 years prior. In 2023, 8262 patients were invited to complete a digital questionnaire assessing quality of life, health problems, and barriers to primary care. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between perceived barriers and other variables.
Results
Out of 8262 invited, 2131 individuals responded, with 67% (1429/2131) reporting barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts. The most common barrier was lack of staff continuity, reported by 48% (1031/2131) of respondents. Survivors with additional comorbidities and more cancer-related health issues had higher odds of reporting barriers.
Interpretation
The findings align with existing literature on barriers faced by cancer survivors in accessing primary care. While the statistical significance of the barriers is clear, the clinical significance may vary based on individual circumstances. Limitations include reliance on self-reported data and potential biases in the sample.
Key findings
- 67% (1429/2131) reported one or more barriers to satisfactory primary care contacts.
- 48% (1031/2131) experienced a barrier due to lack of staff continuity.
- Higher odds of perceiving barriers were noted in survivors with additional comorbidities and more cancer-related health problems.
Limitations
- Self-reported data may introduce bias.
- Response rate and representativeness of the sample are not detailed.