ABSTRACT
In Russia, the oncological diseases significantly impact public health. The study of oncological medical care organization in the Saratov Oblast, that has a number of territorial demographic and medical social characteristics, affecting oncological situation, was carried out. The purpose of the study is to verify systemic factors determining specific characteristics of the oncological medical care organization in the Saratov Oblast. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To elaborate objective comprehension of specific characteristics of the oncological medical care organization in the Saratov Oblast medical and sociological focus groups study was carried out, involving sampling of 12 experts oncologists and health care organizers. THE RESULTS: The original guide scenario developed for the focus group study included expert discussion on trends in oncological medical care organization at the Oblast level and directions of improving continuum of oncological care. The study data analysis was implemented in accordance with specified scenario. CONCLUSION: The focus group study elaborated objective understanding of the specific characteristics of oncological medical care organization in the Oblast and predetermined verification and ranking of systemic factors that significantly impact the continuum of oncological care.
