Physician Perspectives on Fertility Preservation Discussions with Premenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: Results from a Multihospital Health Care System

Background Ten percent of new breast cancer diagnoses occur in premenopausal women, and oncologic therapies may compromise fertility. Thus, fertility preservation discussions (FPDs) and referral to fertility specialists are imperative prior to initiation of therapy. A previous retrospective chart review showed 45% FPD rates at our institution. The aim of this study is to investigate physician perspectives and limitations regarding FPD. Methods An electronic survey was distributed to 30 surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists across ten regional hospitals. Questions addressed provider demographics, and barriers to and facilitators of FPD. Results The survey response rate was 63.3%. Only 31.6% of physicians reported “always” documenting FPD. Respondents opined that the physician prescribing systemic therapy was the most appropriate person to provide FPD. Patient age, treatment with chemotherapy, and patient desire for FPD were more likely to increase FPD ( p