Table 5.

Principal findings from thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals

Barriers to effectively educating patients on LARS	All HCPs felt that ‘insufficient time in their schedules’ was the most significant barrier to adequately discussing LARS with their patients
	Most HCPs felt that information provided to patients in clinic is often not retained
	Most HCPs did not have a consistent resource on LARS to offer to patients
The booklet is accurate, comprehensive, and easy to read	All HCPs felt that the major points on LARS were covered
	Most HCPs felt that less information on rectal cancer was needed in the booklet
	All HCPs felt that the illustrations were accurate and helpful in explaining LARS
	Several additional medications were recommended (eg, codeine, amitriptyline)
The booklet is a clinically relevant resource for patients	All HCPs would give this booklet to their patients, and believe that it would be a helpful supportive resource
	All HCPs would give it just prior to surgery (or ileostomy closure, if a stoma was performed)

HCP, healthcare professional; LARS, low anterior resection syndrome.