Patient-held logbooks for cancer care treatment: the users' evaluative perspective

The quality and usefulness of patient held logbooks as a record to improve communication between healthcare professionals providing cancer care was evaluated. Its aim was to facilitate greater coordination and information sharing between patients, carers, clinicians and other health professionals. A mixed-method exploratory study conducted 12-week post distribution of logbooks to patients undertaking cancer care. Data was gathered through questionnaires returned by 66 participants (response rate of 57.4%) and interviews with five clinical oncology nurses at a Tasmanian hospital. The logbook quality was evaluated against two sets of indicators, including content and layout. The general effectiveness of the patient logbook was also assessed based on its usefulness, usability, efficiency and satisfaction. The logbook was considered useful among 63 (95.1%) participants. They acknowledged the logbook enabled them to be better informed, created a feeling of empowerment and greater control over their medical condition. The logbook was observed to improve communication between clinicians, their patients and families. The evaluation generated rich, in-depth information and provided useful insights into the general quality and usefulness of the logbook for cancer care. The strengths and weaknesses of the logbook were highlighted and how to better utilise its functions in the current medical system.