Patient
Communication
Introduction
In order to keep patients at ease, it is important to ensure that they too understand the purpose of biomarker testing for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the reasons behind the different testing methods.
Biomarker testing in lung cancer and the associated technical considerations are explained in more detail on this website. Becoming familiar with this information before having discussions with patients about their diagnosis and treatment options is recommended.
The importance of patient communication
Patients have described the period following their lung cancer diagnosis as unnerving; they have little information on what to expect from testing or what potential treatment options are available.
There is an unmet need for providing more disease information to patients and caregivers at the time of diagnosis:
Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) patient guide
EBUS-TBNA is frequently used to collect biopsies for biomarker testing in NSCLC. The animation below is aimed at patients who have been referred for an EBUS-TBNA and may want to learn more about what happens before, during and after the procedure. It may be useful to refer patients to this animation when considering EBUS-TBNA.
EBUS guide for patients: bronchoscopy technique for chest abnormalities
Video runtime: 07 .32 mins
EBUS or EBUS-TBNA is a bronchoscopy technique used to investigate a potentially abnormal area in the chest. Using anatomically accurate animation, real-world ultrasound footage and expert commentary, this instructional video will provide guidance for patients on what can be expected during an endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) procedure.
From biopsy to biomarker test result
The infographic below describes the step-by-step process from when a patient biopsy (tissue or liquid) is taken, to retrieving a biomarker test result. It may be useful to use this graphic as an aid when discussing biomarker testing options with patients.
