Communication and information: the experience of radiotherapy patients.

The purpose of this study was to explore patients' own accounts of their experiences of having cancer and undergoing radiotherapy treatment. The respondents were suffering from either cancer of the head and neck or lung region. The methodology was qualitative and the method used to collect data was semistructured, audio-taped interviews. Overall the study reflected a high degree of satisfaction with care. However, it did highlight some problems regarding insufficient information about the side-effects of treatment. It was also apparent that difficulties existed in satisfying individual requirements for information about treatment options and prognosis. Data which characterized another level of communication emphasized how health professionals' demeanour and statements of understanding can assist patients in coping with the challenge of having cancer. By providing in-depth feedback about patients' experiences of serious illness, it is concluded that this type of research can contribute to enhancing patient care.