The Patient-Provider Relationship in Adolescent Oncology: AnExploratory Factor Analysis of a Thirteen-Item Self-Report Measure

J Adolesc Health. 2018 Oct;63(4):509-512. doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.04.016. Epub 2018 Aug 18.

Abstract

Purpose: The patient-provider relationship has been understudied in adolescents with cancer. The currentstudy describes an exploratory factor analysis of a patient-provider relationship self-report measure developed for use in adolescent oncology.

Methods: A self-report measure was included in an iPad/tablet survey delivered to 102 adolescent cancer patients (diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 20). Principal factor analysis with promax rotation and a three-factor structure was specified.

Results: The final solution identified three underlying dimensions of the patient-provider relationship-SupportingIndependence (69.7% variance explained; Cronbach's α = .89), Family-Centered Communication (50.0% variance explained; Cronbach's α = .73), and Respectful Relationships (40.1% variance; Cronbach's α = .66).

Discussion: The current measure highlights the unique developmental place of adolescent cancer patients in their preference for aspects of both patient-centered and family-centered care. The current analysis begins to fill the need for adolescent-tailored measurement to assess the patient-provider relationship in this population.

Keywords: Adolescent cancer; Exploratory factor analysis; Patient–provider relationship; Quantitative measure; Self-report measure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical Oncology*
  • Neoplasms / psychology
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Physician-Patient Relations*
  • Psychometrics
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Self Report*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*
  • Young Adult