Shared care in the follow-up of early-stage melanoma: a qualitative study of Australian melanoma clinicians' perspectives and models of care

摘要: Patients with early stage melanoma have high survival rates but require long-term follow-up to detect recurrences and/or new primary tumours. Shared care between specialists and general practitioners is an increasingly important approach meeting the needs of a growing population survivors. In-depth qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews 16 clinicians (surgical oncologists, dermatologists unit GPs) who conduct post-treatment at two Australia’s largest specialist referral treatment diagnosis units. Interviews were recorded, transcribed analysed identify approaches shared in follow-up, variations practice, explanations these. Melanoma utilised patients melanoma. Schedules determined by patients’ clinical risk profiles. Final arrangements for delivery those schedules (by whom where) influenced additional psychosocial, professional organizational considerations. Four models described: (a) surgical oncologist alternating dermatologist (in-house or local patient); (b) other doctor (e.g. family physician); (c) doctor; (d) physician doctor. These offer alternative solutions managing requirements number I/II melanoma, warrant further comparative evaluation outcomes trials, detailed cost/benefit analyses.