Gynaecological cancer survivors and community support services : referral, awareness, utilisation and satisfaction

Abstract

Objectives: To quantify gynaecological cancer survivors’ referral to, awareness of, utilisation of and satisfaction with community support services, as well as the factors associated with service use.-----
Methods: In 2004, 802 gynaecological cancer survivors, three months to five years post-diagnosis, completed a postal questionnaire (56% response rate). Descriptive statistics summarised outcome prevalences. Logistic regression models identified correlates of service utilisation.-----
Results: Substantial proportions of women were aware of the main cancer support organisation, Cancer Council Queensland (72%), and of information booklets (74%), helplines (66%), support groups (56%) and internet information (50%). Less than half were aware of other services. The most commonly used resources and services were information booklets (37%), the internet (23%), and helplines (20%). More broadly, 43% utilised information/internet support, 30% utilised psychosocial services and 27% utilised functional/practical services. Approximately one-fifth (19%) used more than one support types. Having a health care provider referral, being diagnosed with lymphoedema or living in northern Queensland were associated with higher odds of service use in all three of the support types. While most (86%) of those referred used a service, only a few women received referrals. Among users, satisfaction with services was high.-----
Conclusions: While gynaecological cancer survivors accessed a variety of support, there is a need to ensure women are aware of services. Given the low prevalence of referrals and that referral was a key influence on service use, clinician education may be necessary to improve service referral. Organisations should also consider strategies to keep services high on clinicians’ radars.