Expert patient perspectives on radiotherapy: a phenomenological comparison

Carmichael, M and Bridge, P ORCID: 0000-0001-7704-9812 (2017) Expert patient perspectives on radiotherapy: a phenomenological comparison JOURNAL OF RADIOTHERAPY IN PRACTICE, 16 (2). pp. 207-214. ISSN 1460-3969, 1467-1131

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Abstract

Background: Patient involvement in health profession student training is becoming more common and includes clinical case studies, informing curriculum development and active teaching in dedicated patient experience sessions. Despite a growing evidence base supporting patient involvement, there is little published data concerning motivation for involvement. A qualitative study was performed to provide narrative relating to patient experiences in expert patient sessions on an undergraduate radiation therapy course. Methods: A phenomenological approach utilised semi-structured interviews with two expert patients from different backgrounds. A common set of questions were used for each participant. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed before thematic coding. Results: Both participants identified areas of similarity as well as key difference in their experiences. Both had different levels of public speaking experience as well as different levels of knowledge relating to radiation therapy treatment. Both found the initial session emotional but ultimately enjoyed the process and found it cathartic. Conclusion: The patients enjoyed this experience and identified clear value of the teaching for themselves and the students. Previous public speaking or clinical experience seemed to have limited impact on patient experience and suggested the vulnerability of the situation. Both had different perspectives of their fellow patients and their role in the healthcare partnership. These findings indicate the value of ensuring students have access to a range of perspectives from different patients.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	license: © Cambridge University Press 2017
Uncontrolled Keywords:	expert patients, patient care, radiation therapy, student education, user involvement
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	14 Mar 2017 09:17
Last Modified:	23 May 2026 00:41
DOI:	10.1017/S1460396916000625
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3006371
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