Patient participation in the cancer consultation: evaluation of a question prompt sheet

Abstract

Background: Active participation and asking questions are important ways in which patients can ensure they understand what the doctor has said. This study evaluated a question prompt sheet designed to encourage patients to ask questions in the cancer consultation.

Patients and methods: Patients (n = 142) were randomised to receive (i) a question prompt sheet or (ii) a general sheet informing patients of services available through the regional Cancer Council. Recall of information was assessed in a structured interview 4-20 days after the consultation. Questionnaires to assess patient satisfaction and adjustment to cancer were sent by mail.

Results: The question prompt sheet had a significant effect in one content area: prognosis. Thirty-five percent of patients who received the question handout asked questions about prognosis compared to 16% of those receiving the information handout. The prompt sheet did not increase the mean number of questions asked overall. Age, in/out-patient status, gender and involvement preference were predictive of both number and duration of patient questions.

Conclusions: A question prompt sheet has a limited but important effect on patient question asking behaviour in the cancer consultation.