Study protocol for the OPTion randomised controlled trial on the effect of prioritising treatment goals among older patients with cancer in a palliative setting

• Published in: Maturitas Vol. 96; pp. 84 - 88
• Main Authors: Stegmann, M.E, Schuling, J, Hiltermann, T.J.N, Reyners, A.K.L, Burger, H, Berger, M.Y, Berendsen, A.J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ireland Elsevier Ireland Ltd 01.02.2017
• Subjects: Aged; Anxiety Disorders - etiology; Communication; Decision Making; Depressive Disorder - etiology; Fatigue - etiology; General Practice; Humans; Internal Medicine; Male; Neoplasms; Neoplasms - complications; Neoplasms - psychology; Neoplasms - therapy; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Older people; Palliative Care; Patient Care Planning; Patient Participation; Patient-provider communication; Physician-Patient Relations; Research Design; Self Efficacy; Shared decision making; Palliative care; Shared decision making; Older people; Neoplasms; Self-efficacy; Patient-provider communication
• ISSN: 0378-5122; 1873-4111
• DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.11.014

Highlights • Traditionally, general practitioners (GPs) are not involved in cancer-related treatment decisions in a palliative setting. • GPs often have a long relationship with patients offering a unique position to explore patients’ values, especially with older patients. • The OPTion study should provide new information about the effect on self-efficacy of a consultation between GPs and older patients with cancer. • The OPT-conversation (Outcome Prioritisation Tool) specifically concerns preferred treatment goals of the patient. • This study may facilitate greater involvement of GPs in oncology care, and may lead to a more active patient role in treatment decisions.