Graphic medicine: A patient-centered approach to oncology

Graphic medicine combines graphic narrative with medicine. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential usefulness of graphics and comics as a therapeutic and teaching tool for gynecologic oncology patients by creating, distributing, and evaluating a narrative about a patient with a newly diagnosed cancer. This project was a multistage mixed methods study. To guide direction and content, focus groups were conducted with members of a gynecologic oncology support group. It was determined that a graphic on coping strategies would be most useful. The first draft underwent several modifications and was translated into Spanish and Vietnamese. The final graphic and survey were implemented into four gynecologic oncology clinics. Patients of any age and at any stage in their treatment were eligible. The survey included demographic questions as well as questions on the usefulness, relatability, and likability of the comic. For statistical analysis, descriptive statistics were used to summarize the study population. The chi-square goodness-of-fit test was used to determine whether participant responses were evenly distributed or skewed in a particular direction. The ANOVA test was used to compare participant responses across categories. 155 patients took the survey. The vast majority found the graphic enjoyable, relatable, useful, and helpful for reducing anxiety (p<0.001). Our results suggest that graphic medicine interventions are useful in a gynecologic oncology setting. The project was guided heavily by patient input. This study was successful in determining that graphic medicine interventions are a feasible method of delivering healthcare information to gynecologic oncology patients.