Coping With Glioblastoma: A Study of Communication Between Physicians, Patients, and Caregivers

Coping With Glioblastoma: A Study of Communication Between Physicians, Patients, and Caregivers

The purpose of this study is to learn more about the way physicians communicate with brain tumor patients. This study will look at how oncologists provide information about brain tumors, brain scan results, and treatment options. This study will look at how oncologists provide information about brain tumors, brain scan results, and treatment options. Ultimately, the investigators hope to use these findings to improve communication between patients, caregivers and their doctors.

Inclusion Criteria:

Patient Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Pathologic diagnosis of WHO grade IV glioma, as per MSKCC medical record or outside medical record.
• In the judgment of the consenting professional, proficiency in English that will allow the participant to be able to complete study questionnaires and assessments. Many of the study assessments are available only in English.
• At the time of consent, orientation to self, place, month and year

Caregiver Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Identified by the patient as a relative, friend, or partner with whom he or she has a significant relationship and who provides him or her informal (unpaid) care (i.e., physical or emotional assistance).
• In the judgment of the consenting professional, proficiency in English that will allow to complete study questionnaires and assessments. Many of the study assessments are available only in English.

Oncologist Inclusion Criteria:

• Treating Neuro-Oncologist in the Department of Neurology

Exclusion Criteria:

Patient Exclusion Criteria:

• A patient will be excluded if in the opinion of his/her attending neuro-oncologist or the covering neuro-oncologist, he does not have the capacity to consent to the study based on clinical evaluation
• Aphasia precluding comprehension and verbalization of consent to participate, in the estimation of the attending physician.

Caregiver Exclusion Criteria:

• There are no caregiver exclusion criteria.