Organization of medical care provision for cancer patients (according to the survey of oncologists)

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The fight against oncological diseases remains one of the priority areas of the health care system of Ukraine. However, the development of medical science, the introduction of innovations in oncology practice, the COVID-19 pandemic and the conditions of wartime necessitate the need to review and improve the process of organizing the provision of oncological care to the population of Ukraine. Aim. The aim of the study is to research the opinion of practicing oncologists regarding certain aspects of the organization of medical care for cancer patients.9 Materials and methods. In the period of August-September 2022, an expert survey of 111 oncologists of the highest and the first qualification categories was conducted. The survey was carried out in 10 regions of Ukraine, which made it possible to cover all regional zones of Ukraine (northern, southern, western, northeastern and central regions of Ukraine). The findings were processed using statistical methods, structural and logical analysis and a systemic approach. Results. Most of the interviewed oncologists are guided in their work by the current standards of diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients on the basis of evidence-based medicine, however, about half of them note the need to review and make changes to it, while the international standards need adaptation to the possibilities of providing oncological care in Ukraine, according to the interviewees. A large number of oncologists need to organize internships, which, in their opinion, should improve the quality of medical services, and also suggest improving and expanding measures aimed at primary prevention and early diagnosis of oncological diseases. Conclusions. The data of the conducted research will contribute to the improvement of the quality of oncological medical care, revision of the standards of diagnosis and treatment of oncological diseases. The findings will be used to develop and work out a model for the optimization of the oncology care system for the population of Ukraine.