Table 2 in the Appendix lists the questions used to assess patient preferences. We averaged the scores that each patient gave to all eight questions. The results are displayed in Figure 1. Finally, patients listed what information or services they would like to receive via e-mail. Figure 2 lists the percent of patients who desired each of 12 possible services via e-mail.
Cancer patients tend to be both assertive and involved with their care.
This study ascertained that most private cancer patients wish to communicate with their doctor via e-mail. In addition, many patients believe e-mail lowers psychological access barriers to their doctor. Additionally, this study determined the specific information and services patients wish to receive via e-mail. Questions used to assess whether patients feel e-mail overcomes access barriers. Below are eight reasons that patients give for not asking questions at the doctor's office.