Perspectives en cancérologie pour les médecins généralistes : enquête interrégionale 2010

Between February 1, 2010 and May 1, 2010, a mailed survey in Champagne Ardenne region and the Aisne Department was carried out toward 1 957 general practitioners (GP) listed by the different Boards of Medical Doctors. Following this one-shot mailing, 705 GP's filled and returned the questionnaire (36,6% answer rate). GPs clearly stated their concern in the care of cancers: screening and prevention, early diagnosis and orientation of the patient, per- and post-therapeutic surveillance, backing during the terminal course of the disease. Main observed difficulties consisted of psychological burden, lack of available time and postgraduate training deficiency. Poor communication with oncologists and weakness of close oncologic structures were reported by 24% of GPs. However, it is obvious that the mostly involved physicians did answer. This survey allows however to target specific needs in training for both home caring of modern therapy side effects and the whole course of the terminal phase including supportive care. The theoretical benefits brought to the patients with cancer are emphasized and discussed. Practical propositions and evaluations aiming to give perspectives over on-ground-actions for the GPs are considered.