ReCAP: Would Women With Breast Cancer Prefer to Receive an Antidepressant for Anxiety or Depression From Their Oncologist? [CARE DELIVERY]

QUESTIONS ASKED: Preferences of patients with breast cancer for provider-specific pharmacologic management of anxiety and depression are unknown. Use of patient-guided treatment preferences for the treatment of depression and anxiety are known to improve adherence and treatment outcomes in primary care settings, but these preferences are not known in women with breast cancer. This may be especially true shortly after the patient receives a diagnosis of cancer and is most psychologically symptomatic, yet committed to following through with her oncologic care. Do breast cancer patients have preferences regarding having their anxiety and depression assessed and treated by their oncologists versus being cared for by a psychiatrist or mental health provider? SUMMARY ANSWER: The majority of patients accepted antidepressant prescribing by their oncologist; only a minority preferred treatment by a mental health professional. These findings are consistent with previous data from medically ill patients that demonstrated a preference for medical providers to address and treat their depression or anxiety. Twenty percent of participants would not want any treatment. Patients who met depression criteria were less likely to prefer a mental health referral. Patients who were already taking an antidepressant or demonstrated higher levels of chronic stress were more likely to prefer a mental health referral. METHODS: Patients with breast cancer (stages 0-IV) were asked two questions: (1) "Wo...
Source: Journal of Oncology Practice - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Doctor-patient communication, Complications of cancer and cancer treatment, Communication, Coping, Doctor-patient communication, Quality of life, Supportive care, Access to care, Behavioral and Lifestyle Risk Factors, Adult Medical Oncology CARE DELIVER Source Type: research