[An evaluation of the current status and the reported problems of the cancer support group "Hidamari" in our hospital-results of a questionnaire survey completed by group participants].

PURPOSE: Peer support is a very important support intervention for cancer patients and their families. Our hospital has offered cancer support in the form of a support group "Hidamari" to cancer patients and their families since February 2012. This study analyzed and examined the current group status and the results of a questionnaire survey completed by group participants in order, to evaluate the functioning of the group and identify problems. METHODS: The current group status was determined as per the records of practice. A questionnaire survey that consisted of both multiple choice and open-ended questions was administered to the participants after the sessions. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The subjects were informed about the study purpose and confidentiality provisions in both oral and written forms, and return of the anonymous survey was considered to be consent. RESULTS: A group session was performed every 2 months(to date, a total of 4 sessions), and a total of 48 patients(68%)and 23 family members(32%)participated in the sessions. Each session included 9-25 subjects(mean: 17. 7 subjects/session). The response rate of the survey was 95. 8%. Responses to the question, "Are you satisfied with the sessions ?" were very satisfied, satisfied, dissatisfied, or very dissatisfied in 63%, 37%, 0%, and 0% of the participants, respectively. Responses to the question, "Do you wish to participate in further sessions ?" were yes, no, undecided, or gave no response in 94%, 0%, 2%, and 4% of the subjects, respectively. Reasons for satisfaction with the sessions were "It gives me courage and strength," "Useful information can be obtained," and "Good advice from nurses. DISCUSSION: All participants were satisfied with the sessions and most of the participants wished to participate in future sessions, indicating that the sessions had some positive effects. In future, we must consider initiatives covering the whole region, such as the implementation of a workshop that meets the needs of the participants and increases the number of participants with wider variety of cancer.