Experience of participating in national home-based medical care project for cancer patients with a temporary stoma: a qualitative study

PurposeThis study aimed to explore the experiences of cancer patients with a temporary stoma who participated in a home-based healthcare service and to provide data to inform national health system policy development.MethodsThis exploratory qualitative study involved 10 cancer patients with temporary stomas (five with rectal cancer, two with colorectal cancer, and three with ovarian cancer) recruited through purposive sampling in South Korea. In-depth, semi-structured online focus group interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsFour main themes were identified from the interview data: (1) adjusting with changes in daily life owing to the presence of a stoma, (2) skill building while participating in the project, (3) the need for a home-based medical care system during transitional care, and (4) the need for support in adapting to an ostomy. These themes included 12 subthemes. The findings highlight the need for ongoing health education and counseling services at a national level to support post-discharge self-care for cancer patients who had undergone ostomy.ConclusionPatients with cancer discharged after colostomy surgery require continuous education and practical medical support, suggesting that home-based healthcare services may serve as a valuable alternative to conventional medical care.