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Purpose In the Australian health care system, patients with brain tumours face a range of challenges in obtaining and understanding information, caused by complex medical care and often fragmented, multiple treatment sites and staff. Health professionals involved with these patients may be the most relevant source for understanding how information exchange can be improved. This study aims to explore information exchange as a component of care, and identify the most suitable interventions for improving information delivery. Methods Health care professionals involved with patients diagnosed with a brain tumour were interviewed using structured group concept mapping techniques. To identify elements of ideal brain tumour care and perceived relationships, data was analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods (thematic analysis, similarity matrices, multidimensional scaling, cluster analysis and pattern matching). Results Health care professionals proposed 647 existing or potential elements of care to assist patients newly diagnosed with a brain tumour. Thematic analysis enabled grouping of elements into 13 categories (eg access issues, finance, support groups) and selection of 42 elements for participant activities. Participants related these 42 elements to each other in a sorting activity, and rated each with regard to importance, feasibility and current provision. Similarity matrices, multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis of this data reduced these to eight clusters (tools for health professionals, psychological support, specialist services, multidisciplinary care, family support, information, communication, and practical services). Perceived relationships between clusters and average ratings were then displayed in two- and three-dimensional maps. Sixteen elements were identified with the most potential to improve care. For example, a care coordinator to follow patients and oversee their care was rated most highly for importance, and above average for fe

Introduction Although recent studies have identified high levels of unmet informational needs among patients with brain tumours[1], it is unclear how health professionals perceive that these needs can be met. Methods To better understand information provision in the neuro-oncology setting, a structured group concept mapping technique combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods is being used. This involves individual and group activities in six phases to explore staff perceptions of the provision of information between patients, carers and health professionals. Participants are health care professionals involved with persons diagnosed with a brain tumour. Results Individual and group brainstorming activities have generated a list of existing and potential elements of care proposed to assist patients newly diagnosed with a brain tumour. Participants have provided information via web-based activities with which to interpret the perceived relationships of these elements to each other, and the perceived importance and feasibility of each element. These relationships and ratings have been analysed using similarity matrices, multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis, resulting in two- and three-dimensional maps, which will be presented. Discussion This research will identify the relationships between information delivery and other supportive care services, perceived barriers to and gaps in information services, and priorities for improving information delivery from health professionals' point of view. The analysis of these results will allow identification of pathways to improve brain tumour care and guide the development of intervention programs for patients with brain tumours.