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Perception of healthcare providers regarding breast reconstruction in West Virginia
Essig,Rachael; Ueno,Cristiane M.
West Virginia University
2016-03-07
Presenter: Rachael Essig
Affidavit:
Abstract and research was performed by Medical Student during her surgical rotation. Data will be presented by Medical Student and it has not being submitted to any other meeting.
Cristiane M. Ueno
Associate Director of 3rd year Medical Student Surgical Clerkship
Director Name: Cristiane M. Ueno
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Breast (Aesthetic and Recon.)
Purpose: A survey before and after a Breast Cancer conference was conducted to identify factors influencing healthcare providers to refer a patient for breast reconstruction.
Methods: Data was collected at the West Virginia University Breast Cancer Conference in 2015. A single question was added to conference questionnaire and results collected from pre and post conference. During conference attendants received a lecture on breast reconstruction options and information regarding "Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act" (1998).
Results: Amongst the 133 attendants, there were: 21 physicians, 36 nurses, 19 advanced practice practitioners, 2 social workers. Between them: 85 practitioners practice in a hospital facility and 23 in outpatient clinics. There were 17/55 counties from WV represented, besides attendants from: Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and Maryland. We collected 81 answers. In the pre-conference: 26% of attendants believed that patients referred to a Plastic Surgeon would have to pay for their reconstruction, 42% believed that patients could receive their reconstruction covered by insurance, 28.4% believed that patient should think about their cancer treatment before considering seeing a plastic surgeon. After conference: 61.7% believed that insurance would cover reconstruction, 11% believed that insurance would not cover reconstruction, 27% believed that patients should undergo mastectomy, radiation and chemotherapy before seeing a plastic surgeon.
Conclusion: Although this is a questionnaire limited to a few number of participants, it shows that there is still limitations regarding healthcare provider's discussion of breast reconstruction possibilities with patients. It highlights the need for continuous education to increase breast reconstruction awareness.
