Barriers to Initiating and Persisting with Guideline-Adherent Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

Barriers to Initiating and Persisting with Guideline-Adherent Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

Project Period: 07/01/2017 - 06/30/2019 PI: Heidi Donovan, PhD, RN                
Funding Source: - National Cancer Institute SPOREA
                             -  Hillman Family Foundation
Researchers: Mary Roberge, BSN, RN

In study 1, a retrospective analysis of cancer research registry, medical record, pharmacy, and cancer pathways data from the UPMC system (2007-2017) will be analyzed to identify patient, provider, and system-level factors that are associated with 1) guideline adherent treatment recommendation; 2) initiation of recommended treatment; and 3) persistence with recommended treatment. 

In study 2, interviews and focus groups will be conducted with health care providers, ovarian cancer survivors and family caregivers to elicit individual decision-making processes around initiating and persisting with treatment. The themes will include treatment-related decision making, factors influencing treatment persistence in the face of challenges, and suggestions for needed support.

A. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center-University of Pittsburgh Cancer Center Ovarian Cancer SPORE (webpage)