GP-led melanoma follow-up: views and feelings of patient recipients

Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the practical experiences and feelings of people with cutaneous malignant melanoma about receiving structured melanoma follow-up from their general practitioner (GP) as an alternative to traditional hospital-based follow-up. Design Semi-structured audio-taped telephone interviews were conducted with patient recipients of a GP-led follow-up programme for people with cutaneous malignant melanoma. Subjects Eighteen people with cutaneous malignant melanoma that had received structured GP-led routine follow-up for cutaneous malignant melanoma took part in this study. Results GP-led melanoma follow-up worked well from the perspectives patients. Patients appreciated convenience of the system, less rushed appointments with more thorough examinations, a more pleasant atmosphere and greater continuity of care. They regarded the GP-led follow-up positively, irrespective of distance from the major cancer centre. Concerns expressed included awareness that most GPs had less experience of melanoma than hospital specialists. Conclusions GP-led melanoma follow-up is feasible and is generally viewed positively by those patients that have experienced it.