Patient perspectives on nonmelanoma skin cancer care: Insights into treatment, barriers, and healthcare gaps.

Abstract

e21015 Background: Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), comprised mainly of cutaneous squamous cell (CSCC) and basal cell (BCC) carcinomas, represent the most common malignancies worldwide. Despite generally favorable outcomes, patients often face barriers that impact care. Effective management relies on a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to provide effective comprehensive care, yet many patients lack awareness of MDT roles and available support, leading to gaps in communication and optimal care. The objective of this analysis was to explore the perspectives of patients living with NMSC, focusing on treatment experiences, barriers to care, and satisfaction with the MDT. Methods: A custom, online patient/caregiver 19-question survey accessed by WebMD users was designed to gather perspectives on NMSC care. Questions addressed demographic qualities, therapies employed, treatment satisfaction, experiences in accessing and transitioning care, barriers, and communication/collaboration with the MDT. Results were streamlined to analyze those that specifically indicated they have been diagnosed and are living with NMSC. The survey was launched June 2024; data were collected until July 2024. Results: The analysis included 50 participants diagnosed and living with NMSC. Of those, 36% lived in the Midwest, 64% were aged 66 years and older, 56% were first diagnosed with NMSC on the head and neck region, and 52% were currently undergoing treatment. Reported treatments given included surgery (77%), immunotherapy (6%), and clinical trial enrolment (2%). Dermatologists were most associated with performing surgery, while oncologists were associated with chemotherapy and radiation treatment. The top three barriers encountered in receiving surgical care were limited access to the MDT, being diagnosed too late, and difficulty navigating the healthcare system. The top three barriers encountered in receiving immunotherapy were issues with treatment adherence as well as access to and poor communication with the MDT. The largest areas for improvement identified were awareness of support groups, prioritization of mental/emotional well-being, and exploring options related to treatment costs and resources. Notably, 16% of participants indicated that the MDT did nothing to their satisfaction during their care. Conclusions: The findings highlight key insights into the experiences of patients living with NMSC. Treatment characteristics and MDT roles present as ongoing educational opportunities for patients to help ensure optimal and comprehensive care. More pressing, the high level of dissatisfaction underscores a critical gap in patient-provider communication and depicts a critical need for MDTs to prioritize patient-centered support. Future efforts should focus on expanding patients’ knowledge of treatment characteristics and ensuring that they are equipped to engage effectively with their MDT.