Patient Experience of Lower GI Suspected Cancer Pathway
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the Patient Journey: A Mixed Methods Investigation of Experiences, Anxiety, and Satisfaction in the Lower Gastrointestinal Urgent Suspected Cancer Pathway
IRAS ID
366626
Contact name
Matthew Kurien
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 15 days
Research summary
The National Health Service urgent suspected cancer pathway is designed to ensure rapid assessment of patients with symptoms suggestive of malignancy. Despite clinical importance, patient experiences and psychological outcomes throughout this journey remain poorly understood, particularly regarding communication quality, anxiety management and pathway satisfaction.
The objective of this study is to evaluate patient perceptions and experiences of the Lower Gastrointestinal Urgent Suspected Cancer (LGI USC) pathway using mixed methods analysis. We will identify key predictors of satisfaction, anxiety trajectories and pathway completion.
Participants: Adults referred through the LGI USC pathway.
200 participants at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals will be recruited as a pilot to validate research processes and instruments.
10-15 participants will be recruited for qualitative interviews until data saturation.
Based on the initial 200 patients pilot study, amendments may be be made to the study protocol to suggest expansion of the study to other regional centres in South Yorkshire.
This pilot study allows for validation, refinement of research processes, data collection at a single site before suggesting regional expansion, demonstration of proof-of-concept to support multi-centre expansion and that the study supports delivery of an academic foundation trainee project.The findings will inform immediate improvements to Sheffield's LGI USC pathway and validate methodology for regional expansion. Full study findings will contribute to national evidence base for improving outcomes for over 42,000 annual colorectal cancer diagnoses in the UK.
Method: Validated questionnaires administered at two timepoints (referral and 3-month follow-up). Semi-structured interviews exploring patient experiences and improvement suggestions. Data analysis will be performed using relevant statistical tests and subjective data will be analysed based on established measures. This will yield evidence-based understanding of patient experiences, identification of anxiety and satisfaction predictors, development of patient-centred pathway improvements and contribution to cancer care quality standards.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/YH/0059
Date of REC Opinion
23 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion