Communication With the Physician in Cancer Patient-caregiver Dyads: Impact on Distress and Illness Perceptions

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to explore how satisfaction of the communication with the physician impacts anxiety, depression, illness concern and comprehension in a dyadic setting. Methods: We compared 73 dyads of patients’ and caregivers’ on three scales assessing the satisfaction with communication (MCCS ; IV), illness concern and comprehension (BIPQ ; DV) and psychological distress (HADS ; DV). Data were analyzed using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model (APIM). Findings: Greater satisfaction with communication for patients was associated with greater patients’ coherence and illness concern and with more anxiety for caregivers. This last link was mediated by caregivers illness concern. Caregivers’ communication was not associated with caregivers’ outcomes. Conclusion: This study showed the importance of patients’ satisfaction about communication with the physician on both patients’ and caregivers’ distress and illness perceptions.