Patient Empowerment: The Role of Healthcare Professionals

A cancer diagnosis often comes as a shock, leaving people feeling as though they have lost control over their lives. Conducted at the University of Eastern Finland, a recent collaborative autoethnographic study explored how communication and encounters with health care professionals influenced one patient’s sense of control during her treatment journey.

The study, published in the journal Qualitative Health Researchhighlights how crucial good interaction is in cancer care. When patients feel heard and understood, they gradually begin to regain a sense of control, even in the face of serious illness.

“Two of the study’s authors have themselves experienced cancer, and one has cared for a loved one with the disease. Together, they analyzed one of the authors’ personal experiences as a cancer patient over a period of 18 months from diagnosis onward,” says researcher Satu Koskinen.

One-way communication initially contributed to feelings of losing control

At the time of the diagnosis, the patient felt she had lost control over both her life and illness. Communication from health care professionals was initially one-way.

She received no-reply text messages about forthcoming examination appointments, which did not offer the opportunity to ask questions or raise concerns. Sudden changes to appointments or invitations to additional tests caused uncertainty and significant worry.

However, when personal encounters with nurses and doctors increased, the patient’s sense of control started to return. Health care professionals listened, engaged in dialog and involved her in the decisions concerning her care. She was also actively encouraged to use the Finnish online health portal OmaKanta to access her medical information.

The patient’s sense of agency grew stronger as she was included in decision-making, allowed to ask questions and able to influence matters such as scheduling and pain medication.

A key moment came when the doctor clearly stated that while they were responsible for her overall treatment, the patient was in charge of physical exercise, nutrition and skincare. This clarity helped the patient to regain her sense of control.

“A surprising finding was that although the COVID-19 pandemic caused delays in patients’ diagnoses and treatment, it also produced a renewed sense of control. Practical measures, such as wearing a mask, offered tangible ways to protect oneself. In contrast to the unpredictable course of cancer, these clear steps helped the patient feel she could take meaningful action to care for her health,” Postdoctoral Researcher Eeva Aromaa notes.

Good care needs to be human

“Serious illness affects more than just the body, it also impacts the mind,” Professor Päivi Eriksson says. When patients feel ignored or sidelined, they may start to believe they have no say in their treatment.

According to Eriksson, the study illustrates how meaningful interactions between patients and health care professionals matter.

“The way professionals communicate and engage with patients can help rebuild a sense of control and self-determination.”

Good care is not just about efficiency, it must also be human. Patients should be given space to ask questions, take part in decisions and feel like valued members of their care team. This takes time and willingness, but it also plays a vital role in recovery and future health behaviors.