Catric Study (Version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Communication about tests and referral to investigate causes of ill health (Catric Study)
IRAS ID
222663
Contact name
Lucy Brindle
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 30 days
Research summary
The threshold for urgent investigation (tests) for cancer has been lowered with the hope of improving early diagnosis of cancer. As a result more patient may be referred to specialists or offered tests. Most of these patents will not have cancer, however being offered investigation may cause concern. Furthermore, cancer is not always discussed by doctors with patients when referring them for tests in response to symptoms that may suggest cancer and very little is known about the information needs of these patients. This study aims to explore the consultation experience, GP communication and referrals, information needs and concerns of patients with suspected cancer.
100 doctor appointments in primary care, with patients who meet the criteria for investigation of suspected cancer will be video-recorded and some of these patients will also be interviewed about their information needs and their understanding of what was said in the consultation, and any cancer concerns, and the extent to which their information needs and concerns were addressed.
By linking our analyses of video-recordings with what patients say in interviews we will develop recommendations for GP-patient communication about referral, and investigation of suspected cancer. Recommendations will be developed into a training module for doctors, to promote best communication practices.
REC name
South Central - Hampshire A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SC/0344
Date of REC Opinion
21 Jul 2017
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion