Perceived benefits and challenges of using an electronic cancer prediction system for safety netting in primary care: an exploratory study of C the Signs

Objectives: This paper reports on an exploratory study into the perceived benefits and challenges of using an electronic cancer prediction system, C the Signs, for safety netting within a Primary Care Network (PCN) in the East of England. Methods: The study involved semi-structured interviews and a qualitative questionnaire with a sample of 15 clinicians and practice administrators within four GP practices in the PCN. Results: Participants generally perceived benefits of C the Signs for managing and monitoring referrals as part of post-consultation safety netting. Clinicians made little use of the decision support function though, as part of safety netting during the consultation, and referrals were still sent by administrators, rather than directly by clinicians through C the Signs. Conclusion: Emphasising the benefits of C the Signs for post-consultation safety netting is most likely to gain buy-in to the system from clinicians, and can also be used by administrators for shared visibility of referrals. More evidence is needed on the value of C the Signs for safety netting during the consultation, through better diagnosis of cancer, before this is seen as a valued benefit by clinicians and provides motivation to use the system.