This investigation examines the views of using screening services, care and treatment and support services for prostate cancer in Birmingham and Solihull.
The feedback we heard from 81 people shows that overall, a majority have a positive experience along the prostate cancer pathway. However, variability exists and increases within the post-treatment support pathway. Within the diagnostic pathway, participants were satisfied with the:
- Information they received about prostate cancer services and what to expect following referral (62.5%).
- Way the service communicated with them (61.6%), and support that was offered to them (58.3%).
- Interaction and support from healthcare professionals, with 72% indicating they had a named Cancer Nurse Specialist.
- Speed of diagnosis, support, and information.
Key concerns with the treatment pathway were:
- Lack of information about treatment options and content of information leaving some people unprepared for the post treatment effects.
- Timing of information making it difficult for some people to make informed decisions.
- Slow pace of treatment, which meant that at the time of treatment for some people the stage of the cancer had changed, which can potentially impact outcomes.
- Lack of post treatment support, especially after discharge.
- Delays in follow-up appointments.
- Lack of information about side effects following treatment.
- Lack of parity with other cancer services.
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