Identifying the Psychological, Sexual, Physical, Support, and Information Needs Profile in Colombian Cancer Patients

Introduction: Oncology patients’ needs arising from diagnosis or treatment deserve correct assessment and to be met to improve adherence, satisfaction and to mitigate psychosocial effects. Methods: A survey was conducted among adult oncology patients (outpatients) using the SCNS-SF34 instrument, both in-person (self-administered) and via telephone (guided). A descriptive analysis was performed on the instrument's 5 domains: psychological, sexuality, physical functionality, information, and support. The frequency of high, low, or absent needs was determined. Additional needs were explored through an open-ended question, and the association with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics was evaluated. Results: A total of 246 patients were surveyed, identifying ‘High Needs’ in the psychological domain (70%), physical functionality domain (66%), and information domain (58%). No significant association was found between sociodemographic or clinical variables and ‘High Needs’. Specific needs related to the Colombian healthcare system (administrative processes and transportation) were identified. The instrument demonstrated adequate internal consistency (α 0.92/ω 0.95). Conclusion: The high frequency of unmet needs indicates the necessity to improve oncological supportive care and patient companionship. Periodic identification using a validated instrument could guide changes in healthcare services.