A qualitative evaluation of patients' experiences of an enhanced recovery programme for colorectal cancer

Aim We explored the patients' views and experiences of surgery for colorectal cancer within an enhanced recovery programme (ERP). Method Semi-structured home interviews were performed within 6 weeks of hospital discharge with participants of a randomized trial comparing laparoscopically assisted surgery with open surgery for colorectal cancer within an ERP. Interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed and analysed using qualitative techniques of constant comparison based upon grounded theory. Results Interviewees (n = 22) had similar baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes to participants in the full trial. Many participants were pleased to be discharged quickly and they considered that being in their own home-improved recovery because it allowed them to choose how and when to undertake daily activities rather than following the hospital routine. Some participants (n = 9) were less satisfied with the process, and the reasons for this were related to complications requiring readmission or needing to contact a health professional for information after discharge. Conclusion Although many participants reported benefits from an ERP, the study highlighted areas for improvement. In particular participants reported the need for better access to information and specialist advice in the early days after hospital discharge.