Patients' experiences of melanoma from diagnosis to post-treatment using illness grids

Abstract

Background: Melanoma has become a significant concern due to the rise in incidence rates. Receiving a melanoma diagnosis can be a life altering event, resulting in multiple biopsychosocial issues which can negatively affect the adjustment to diagnosis, treatment decision making and overall quality of life. Due to the paucity of research into melanoma very little is known about what patient’s experience across the clinical pathway. This study aims to examine patient’s experiences of melanoma across the healthcare trajectory from diagnosis to post-treatment. Methods: A qualitative, longitudinal approach has been adopted for this study in order to obtain in-depth information of patient’s experiences of melanoma across the cancer trajectory. A minimum of 20 patients diagnosed with melanoma in the past month will participate in three interviews over approximately 12 months, with completion of an illness grid at each of these time points. The data will be analysed through content analysis and hermeneutic phenomenology. Expected results: It is expected that patients will experience varying degrees of distress following melanoma diagnosis and surgical interventions resulting in scarring, which would have multiple adverse impacts upon individual. Current stage of work: Awaiting NHS ethical approval in order to commence data collection Discussion: The accounts obtained will help inform clinicians involved in melanoma care about the experiences of being diagnosed with melanoma and the impact upon an individual, therefore providing the opportunity to deliver the required care and improve patient’s experiences of melanoma in the healthcare system.