Transitioning to Survivorship: A Pilot Study

There are no clear transition guidelines for adolescent and young adult cancer patients, their parents, and their primary care providers (PCPs) when completing active therapy and within the first few years after therapy. The purpose of this pilot study was to identify needs and concerns of recently treated adolescent cancer patients and their parents, young adult cancer survivors, and the community PCPs of adolescent patients. Four focus group interviews were conducted with survivors and parents, and 3 in-depth interviews were conducted with PCPs. All interviews were audiotaped and transcribed for content analysis. A range of needs were identified, including lack of adequate written and verbal information about their prior treatment, its potential side effects, and appropriate follow-up care. The best sources for education were identified as the primary oncologist, nurse practitioner, or nurse. At completion of treatment, parents and adult survivors felt a lack of psychosocial support. Suggestions from pa...