RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Attitudes to Gynae Oncology Care Location - GRACEFUL

This study, called GRACEFUL, wants to understand what women in the UK with gynaecological cancer, or those suspected of having it, think about where they receive their care. Currently, where these services are located often depends on old ways of working, not on what patients actually need or prefer. Researchers want to gather views on the best places for investigations, treatment, and follow-up. Previous smaller studies showed some patients were unhappy with care being based alongside maternity services. This new study will use surveys and interviews to collect both written feedback and more detailed conversations. The goal is to reshape future healthcare services to be more sensitive and helpful to patients.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

600

Start

24 Mar 2025

Estimated completion

02 Feb 2029

Gynecologic Cancers

What is this study about?

Imagine you're facing a gynaecological cancer diagnosis or undergoing treatment. Where would you prefer to receive your care – for appointments, tests, and follow-up? This study, called GRACEFUL, is looking into exactly that. Currently, where these vital services are located in the UK often has more to do with how hospitals have always run things, rather than what actually works best for patients.

The researchers want to hear directly from women like you about your experiences and preferences. They've found that healthcare professionals sometimes don't realise how strongly patients feel about the location of their care. For example, a previous small study showed that over half of women were not happy having their cancer care in the same area as maternity services. Patients said that the environment was really important and that their cancer care should be the main focus.

By collecting information through surveys and interviews, this study aims to get a clear picture of what matters most to patients. This information will be really valuable in helping to design future gynaecological cancer services that are truly patient-friendly and supportive, making sure they meet your needs rather than just fitting into old hospital structures.

Key takeaways

The study aims to improve gynaecological cancer care.
It focuses on patient preferences for where care is given.
Participation involves a survey, with optional interviews.
Your feedback is anonymous and helps shape future services.
The study is for women aged 18+ with suspected or diagnosed gynaecological cancer.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this important study, you need to be a woman aged 18 or older.

You also need to have either been referred to a hospital because gynaecological cancer is suspected, or have already been diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer.

Unfortunately, if you are male or not able to give your informed consent to take part, you wouldn't be able to join this particular study.

Quick self-check

Are you female?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been referred for suspected gynaecological cancer?
Or have you already been diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will be asked to complete a survey. This survey will ask you about your thoughts and feelings on where gynaecological cancer services are located. You'll have a chance to give written feedback in your own words, alongside answering some specific questions.

A small number of participants (about 30 people) will also be invited for a telephone or online interview. This interview will be a conversation where you can talk more openly about your views on the location of care. These interviews will be recorded with your permission, and what you say will be kept confidential and anonymous.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is that your views will directly help shape how gynaecological cancer services are provided in the future, potentially making them better for other patients. There are no direct physical risks. You might find some questions bring up emotions, but you can choose not to answer any questions you're uncomfortable with. Your participation is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your care in any way.

Locations (1)

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Taunton, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'gynaecological cancer'?

Gynaecological cancers are cancers that affect a woman's reproductive system, such as ovarian, cervical, or womb cancer.

What does 'place of care' mean in this study?

It means where you go for your appointments, tests, treatments, and follow-up for gynaecological cancer – like a hospital clinic, a dedicated cancer centre, or another type of facility.

Will my answers be kept private?

Yes, all your submissions will be anonymous. No information that could identify you will be routinely collected, unless you choose to share it voluntarily.

Do I have to do an interview if I complete the survey?

No, the interviews are for a small group only, and you would be asked separately if you'd like to participate in one. It's completely optional.

What will happen to the results of this study?

The findings will be used to help healthcare planners and providers understand what patients need, so they can design better, more patient-friendly services for gynaecological cancer care in the future.

How to find out more

Dr Jo Morrison

jo.morrison@somersetft.nhs.uk +44 1823342562 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.