MEASURING PERCEIVED VALUE OF THERAPEUTIC EDUCATION IN ONCOLOGY

Abstract

Through this research, we propose to enrich the current academic studies and practices dedicated to the evaluation of the effects of Therapeutic Patient Education (TPE) on patients. To reach this goal, the theoretical framework of perceived value in marketing, and a methodological reference model in management (Churchill Paradigm) are adopted. Based on this approach, this study highlights the variety of benefits (cognitive, utilitarian, psychological, and relational) and the associated costs (psychological, emotional) perceived by the patients during a program of Therapeutic Education. Then, we propose a reliable and valid scale to analyze the perceived value of TPE in oncology. This scale is proposed in an extended version, that can be used in research focused on this construct (8 dimensions, 36 items), and in a short-form (3 dimensions, 17 items), more appropriate in routine surveys or studies incorporating many variables. This conceptual and operational approach completes the traditional assessments of educational achievements (knowledge, skills, and changes) and patient satisfaction (process flow and utility) with an analytical assessment of the experience from the patient’s perspective. Based on this approach, the practitioners can continue to adapt programs to the patient’s needs, and to promote them to the TPE stakeholders in order to facilitate patient’s access to this essential health service in the management of chronic diseases, especially in cancer.