Becoming an Expert: Sarah Allen on doctor-patient communication

PhD student, Sarah Allen, is exploring socioeconomic differences in doctor-patient communication with head and neck cancer patients to understand whether these differences can be reduced using the Patient Concerns Inventory (PCI). "Before starting my PhD I gained a Masters in Health Psychology at the University of Hull while volunteering at a hospice in my home town. Through this experience I gained an interest in cancer care and the experiences of cancer patients. Although my PhD is in Health Services Research, it still has a strong focus on Health Psychology. "The National Institute of Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care North West Coast (NIHR CLAHRC NWC) funds my PhD in Health Services Research. The title of my project is 'Influence of the Patient Concerns Inventory in the communication of head and neck cancer patients with healthcare professionals, across the socioeconomic gradient'. "Head and neck cancer patients may experience a number of concerns following treatment such as fear of recurrence, disfigurement, and issues with feeding and speech.