Experiences and needs of patients facing incurable cancer and their relatives with informal care in psychosocial supporting centres in the Netherlands: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

People facing incurable cancer need appropriate informal psychosocial care. This study examines the experiences and needs of visitors of IPSO centers (psychosocial supporting centers for life with and after cancer) for people facing incurable cancer in order to optimize the services provided by IPSO centers for this group.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with visitors of IPSO centers, both patients and relatives facing incurable cancer. The interviews were analyzed thematically. Eight themes and two sub themes were identified.

Results

In total, 18 patients and 13 relatives and bereaved relatives were interviewed. Participants expressed a strong need for understanding, exchanging information and finding ways to fill their days. They appreciated

SUBMITTER: Siemelink SD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12758698 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature