Timing, duration, and frequency
The timing of the isPO OG service within the care trajectory varies depending on the patient’s preference and understanding of this voluntary service offer; therefore, timing is perceived differently in its appropriateness. The isPO OGs report that most patients have already started biomedical oncological treatment before they receive the isPO OG consultation. From the patient's perspective, different timings were reported depending on the care network. In care networks 1 and 3, the consultation took place shortly before discharge from the hospital; in care network 2, at the beginning of oncological care. Particularly regarding information provision, the isPO OGs welcome the earliest possible timing as specified in the care concept. On the other hand, some patients report that the timing was too early for them to make contact with a peer and that they, therefore, rejected the isPO OG consultation. The professional service providers of care network 4 also mentioned that it was "Regarding the duration of the consultations, the isPO OGs of care networks 1, 2, and 3 state that they are at least 45 min and sometimes up to 90 min. According to the isPO OGs, adequate time is needed to understand the patient’s situation and needs. Therefore, the limitation to a maximum of 45 min, as stated in the training, is viewed critically.The experiences of the isPO OGs are mixed as to whether, according to the concept, one or a maximum of two consultations are sufficient. It depends on the needs of the individual patient. Therefore, they suggest keeping the frequency of consultations flexible, similar to the duration.