Differences of opinion: A survey of knowledge and bias among clinicians regarding the role of chemotherapy in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Study objectives: To quantify clinician knowledge and bias regarding the role of chemotherapy for stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Design, setting, and participants: A 16-question, multiple-choice questionnaire was sent to all Australian general internists, pulmonary and palliative care physicians, medical and radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons to assess beliefs concerning the role of chemotherapy in metastatic NSCLC. An overall assessment of "pessimism" and "optimism" regarding the role of chemotherapy in metastatic NSCLC was made, and knowledge of specific outcome measures was evaluated. Measurements and results: A total of 1,325 questionnaires were mailed, with 679 r..