Distinct experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG performance status: a qualitative phenomenological study

Abstract Background Advanced cancer patients with good Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (score 0–1) are underrepresented in current qualitative reports compared with their dying counterparts. Aim To explore the experiences and care needs of advanced cancer patients with good ECOG. Design A qualitative phenomenological approach using semi-structured interview was employed. Data was analyzed using the Colaizzi’s method. Setting/Participants Purposive sample of terminal solid cancer patients on palliative care aged 18–70 years with a 0–1 ECOG score were recruited from a tertiary general hospital. Results Sixteen participants were interviewed. Seven themes were generated from the transcripts, including experiencing no or mild symptoms; independence in self-care, decision-making, and financial capacity; prioritization of cancer growth suppression over symptom management; financial concerns; hope for prognosis and life; reluctance to discuss death and after-death arrangements; and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and religious coping. Conclusions Advanced cancer patients with good ECOG have distinct experiences and care needs from their dying counterparts. They tend to experience no or mild symptoms, demonstrate a strong sense of independence, and prioritize cancer suppression over symptom management. Financial concerns were common and impact their care-related decision-making. Though being hopeful for their prognosis and life, many are reluctant to discuss death and after-death arrangements. Many Chinese patients use herbal medicine as a CAM modality but need improved awareness of and accessibility to treatment options. Healthcare professionals and policy-makers should recognize their unique experiences and needs when tailoring care strategies and policies.