Investigating Attitudes to Gynaecological Rapid Access, Cancer Exclusion and Follow Up Location (GRACEFUL Study)

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating patient preferences for the location of care related to gynaecological cancers in the United Kingdom. This observational study aims to understand how patients feel about where they receive investigation, treatment, and follow-up care for gynaecological cancer. The study builds on pilot work that found many patients were unhappy with care being co-located with obstetrics and gynaecology services, highlighting the importance of the care environment and prioritizing cancer treatment. Participants will be surveyed about their attitudes towards the location of services, providing both quantitative responses and opportunities for free-text feedback. A subset of about 30 participants will take part in telephone or virtual interviews to explore these attitudes in more depth. Interviews will be recorded with consent, transcribed, anonymized, and analyzed using thematic analysis to better understand patient needs. During the study, participants will complete surveys and may be invited to interviews to share their views. The study does not collect identifiable data unless volunteered. Analysis will include statistical methods and content analysis of free-text responses. The main outcome measured over five years is the "Graceful 1" assessment. Findings are expected to help design healthcare services that better meet patient preferences for gynaecological cancer care.

Attitudes to Gynae Oncology Care Location - GRACEFUL