The Relationship Between Lung Cancer Patients' Educational Level and Evaluation of their Treatment Information Needs

Background. Understanding the information needs of lung cancer patients is critical to developing interventions to assist them with treatment decisions. The present study examined how educational level is related to lung cancer patients' perceptions of the importance of having their information needs met and how well those needs were met. Methods. Lung cancer patients completed a needs assessment that evaluated treatment information needs, treatment decision satisfaction, coping, and life satisfaction. Results. Results indicated that education did influence the importance ratings of information needs and influenced coping skills. Conclusions. Findings have implication for how doctors interact with well- and less-educated patients.