Preliminary Findings of Focus Group Analysis to Support the Needs of Adolescent and Young Adult Patients and Survivors of Cancer: Steps Toward a National Adolescent and Young Adult Supportive Care Program

Abstract

Adolescents and young adult (AYA) oncology care has evolved to address their unique supportive care needs, yet deficiencies remain. We planned a multiphase sequential mixed methods study beginning with focus groups (FGs) with AYAs receiving care at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, to improve supportive care delivery. Herewith, we report on the preliminary findings from first phase of project and outline future expected goals. Our findings suggest four major themes identified from FG discussion with AYAs: (1) having peer-driven support, (2) incorporating hybrid approach to information delivery, (3) integrating general practitioners in AYAs care, and (4) providing AYAs-specific supportive care programs.

Keywords: adolescent and young adult; cancer; focus group; national program; supportive care.