Determining how to complete a grounded theory meta-synthesis of research examining patient views on adjuvant hormonal therapy for breast cancer

We wanted to bring together and analyze the existing qualitative research on women’s long-term management of their hormonal medication for preventing the recurrence of breast cancer. We had to find a way of synthesizing a range of published qualitative studies using grounded theory. We encountered a number of challenges during the process of our work. Persevering with a grounded-theory meta-synthesis was highly rewarding, and the model generated has helped bolster our further research. We share our reflections and suggest some practical steps for completing a similar project.