147 Experiences of patients diagnosed with lung cancer in Barts Health NHS Trust

Abstract

Background St Bartholomew's Hospital are undertaking a Collaborative Working project with MSD to improve equity of access to lung cancer treatments for diverse communities through a Pathway Development Programme. This project is part of the collaboration and aimed to understand the experiences of our patients with lung cancer. Methods Questionnaires were utilised and translated into five languages. 21 questions were developed by a team of oncologists, respiratory doctors, and lung cancer nurses. Questions covered three areas: referral to secondary services and diagnostic tests, understanding their cancer diagnosis and treatment discussions. Paper questionnaires were given to patients diagnosed with lung cancer in the past year. Results 30 patients completed the questionnaire, with a median age of 70(42-86). 20 respondents were female. 20 came from white ethnic groups including British and Turkish, and 10 from non-white ethnic groups including African, Chinese, Indian, Bangladeshi, and Caribbean. Where postcode was recorded, 86% came from deprived areas defined as IMD scores 1-3. Around 15% recorded their confidence level in English as 'little' or 'not at all'. Most respondents (90%) understood the reasons for their tests, the results, and their cancer diagnosis as explained. Similarly, 93% of respondents understood their treatment options and could discuss their concerns. However, patients with low confidence in their English abilities recorded a poorer experience. 50% felt they didn't understand why they were being referred for secondary care and did not receive enough information on the diagnostic tests. 75% did not get information on diagnostic tests in their preferred language. Additionally, 50% were not offered an interpreter to understand their results when they would have liked one. Conclusion This project identified key areas for improvement including information provision in multiple languages and access to interpreters. We aim to address these through pathway co-ordinators, clinical animations, and a repository of patient resources. Disclosure St Bartholomew's Hospital are undertaking a Collaborative Working project with MSD to improve equity of access to lung cancer treatments for diverse communities through a Pathway Development Programme. This project is part of the collaboration.