The provision of psychological care for patients with mesothelioma and their caregivers: an Italian survey

Background: Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive tumor that profoundly affects patients and caregivers. However, few studies address psychological interventions for this population, either nationally or internationally. This study therefore aims to map the current state of psychological care provided by the RegionalOperatingCenters.(CORs)oftheItalianNationalMesotheliomaRegistry and other health and welfare facilities in Italy. Methods: The survey lasted approximately 15 min. Results: Thefinalsampleincludes15CORsand57otherfacilities.Amongthem, 66.7% (n = 10) of CORs and 5.3% (n = 3) of other facilities lack a psychologist. OnlyoneCOR includesapsychologistat diagnosis, comparedto 12.9%of other facilities.Psychologicalinterventionsareofferedbyonly25%ofallcenters.Where psychologists are present, 100% of respondents consider them useful; in their absence, 45.5% of CORs and all other facilities consider their inclusion valuable. Interventions for mesothelioma patients and families are provided in two of four CORs and in 37 of 52 other facilities with a psychologist. In seven facilities, interventionstargetonlypatients,andinthree,theyarespecifictothispopulation of patients and caregivers. Conclusions: Although national and international guidelines emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary care for mesothelioma patients and their families, many still lack adequate support. Closing this gap is urgent, as most healthcare professionals recognize the value of such integration—both when they experience it and when it is absent in their workplace.