Aim and objectives:
The system to inform patients diagnosed with an illness was a measure introduced in the early 2000s, as part of the first cancer plan. The aim of this system (which responds to a request made by patients in the context of general meetings with them) is to provide patients (and their families) with better conditions when being informed of the diagnosis of their disease and the proposed treatment. This system encourages adherence to the proposed treatment and the strategies for adapting to the disease. It is based on the provision of clear and appropriate information that respects patients and their wishes, leading to real support.
Target group:
All cancer patients are targeted by the system, starting from the initial diagnosis of a histologically confirmed cancer to relapse of the disease.
Method:
The system is centred on the hospital and is composed of four phases:
- informing a patient of the diagnosis and proposed treatment of an illness;
- accompanying the patient, identify his/her needs;
- referral/access to support care (notably in the event of preserving fertility);
- coordination between the town of residence and the hospital.
Various documents are provided to the patient to help him/her navigate the health system, such as the possibilities for personalised care and its pathway, which sets out the stages of treatment, the corresponding timetable, and information on supportive care as well as a list of useful contacts.
The system is based on multidisciplinary care, primarily involving doctors and paramedical staff. The National Cancer Institute has published recommendations and guidelines to help health establishments and professionals set up the system. The professionals concerned (both hospital and private practitioners) receive ad hoc continuing education.
The system has evolved with successive cancer plans, taking into account the diversification of care (increasing the role of so-called "town" medicine) and the situations of certain groups, such as children and people with intellectual disabilities.
Outcome:
The system to inform patients diagnosed with an illness is implemented in all health establishments authorised to provide cancer treatment. Its organisation is described in the National Cancer Institute's guidelines and is identical throughout the country. The implementation of the system is one of the transversal quality conditions that all establishments concerned with cancer treatment must apply.
Added value:
The added value of the system lies in the provision of clear and appropriate information that respects patients and their wishes, leading to real multidisciplinary support. The fact that it has been developed throughout the country, in accordance with a reference system, is a major asset.
Informing patients diagnosed with an illness (Cancer Plan) - France
