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BACKGROUND: Current follow-up models in cancer are seen to be unsustainable and inflexible, and there is growing interest in alternative models, such as patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU). It is therefore important to understand whether PIFU is acceptable to patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs). METHODS: Standard systematic review methodology aimed at limiting bias was used for study identification (to January 2022), selection and data extraction. Thematic synthesis was undertaken for qualitative data, and survey findings were tabulated and described. RESULTS: Nine qualitative studies and 22 surveys were included, mainly in breast and endometrial cancer. Women treated for breast or endometrial cancer and HCPs were mostly supportive of PIFU. Facilitators for PIFU included convenience, control over own health and avoidance of anxiety-inducing clinic appointments. Barriers included loss of reassurance from scheduled visits and lack of confidence in self-management. HCPs were supportive of PIFU but concerned about resistance to change, unsuitability of PIFU for some patients and costs. CONCLUSION: PIFU is viewed mostly positively by women treated for breast or endometrial cancer, and by HCPs, but further evidence is needed from a wider range of cancers, men, and more representative samples. A protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020181412).

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/cam4.6243

Type

Journal

Cancer Med

Publication Date

08/2023

Volume

12

Pages

16531 - 16547

Keywords

attitude, cancer, patient‐initiated follow‐up, qualitative research, survey, systematic review, Humans, Female, Health Personnel, Male, Neoplasms, Attitude of Health Personnel, Breast Neoplasms, Qualitative Research, Surveys and Questionnaires, Endometrial Neoplasms, Follow-Up Studies