Implementation of a Patient Oriented Ovarian Cancer Folate Receptor Report: A Scoping Review Protocol

Background: Folate receptor alpha (FRα) is an emerging biomarker for ovarian cancer detection and shows promise for identifying targeted pharmacologic treatment approaches to the disease. Patients are expected to understand complex information, compare treatment methods, and make treatment decisions based on their own understanding and personal values. This expectation makes limited health literacy a major barrier to improving cancer care globally. Despite patients having unprecedented access to their medical records, they are not the primary target of these reports. Improving readability of medical reports enhances patient understanding of their care, ultimately supporting better health outcomes.

Objective: The aim of this study is to develop a patient-centered clinical report that clearly communicates the FRα level with a holistic understanding of the results and its implications. Developing a patient-centered reporting tool ensures patient participation through informed decision-making.

Methods: A scoping review is being conducted to identify existing research on patient-centered reporting strategies and effective communication of clinical results. The findings will inform the design of a prototype report tailored to patient needs.

Research Questions:

1. What is patient engagement/participation/involvement in communicating written lab/clinical results
2. What is the recommended information communicated to patients about clinical results?