Remote consultations: experiences of UK patients with prostate cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a move away from in-person to remote consultations for patients with prostate cancer. However, it is not clear if remote consultations work well for every interaction. We surveyed UK-based men with prostate cancer about their preferences for consultation format. Patients wanted in-person consultations when receiving their diagnosis, discussing treatment options or getting test results after treatment. They were more accepting of remote consultations for regular follow-up or support with treatment side effects. Patients should ideally be offered a choice between in-person and remote consultations, although consultations should be in person when key decisions have to be made. These findings will be of value in planning care for patients with prostate cancer post pandemic.