Evaluating primary care follow-up of breast cancer: Methods and preliminary results of three studies

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Abstract
Results : 1) The randomized trial to evaluate primary care follow-up of breast cancer in remission has been successfully conducted and final results are pending. 2) Patients who were eligible but declined to participate in the trial were significantly older than participants (mean age 64. 3 years compared with 60. 7 years; difference 3. 6 years; 95% confidence interval 0. 53; 6. 59). The two groups were similar in clinical characteristics and quality of life. 3) The majority of specialists and GPs preferred a system of routine follow-up which was primarily provided by their own professional group. Conclusions : A general practice centred system of routine follow-up of women with breast cancer in remission is acceptable to both patients and general practitioners. Final results of a randomized trial evaluating quality of care and quality of life outcome measures are pending.