Table 2 Selected parts of the qualitative analysis

Fluctuating quality and quantity of information during the diagnostic

phase of PCa

But it was in relation to the fact that the GP could have been a little more [forthcoming] before, uh, before, uh, before we started to get the results. Like what they mean and such, for the only thing he said was "We will send a referral", and I did not ask very much either, because actually I did not really know exactly what I should ask about (Stockholm3, ST247)

The level of information about the PSA, the Stockholm3 test and PCa depends on the individual healthcare providers

(CG1)

He told me it was a special blood test that was sent to Stockholm. My GP told me it was a more accurate and safe test, compared to the PSA test, so I was happy … I received my Stockholm3 test result in a letter, it was slightly elevated, but what does that mean, could it be serious? My GP just called me and Informed me that he would refer me for further examinations (Stockholm3)

Information affects the experience of comprehension

I wondered a little about being called in [to have a CT scan], you know, I did not get, you know, the invitation letter, with contrast fluid. It was sent by post and it had the wrong address because they did not have the same system as the Ward here had

(Stockholm3, ST301)

Yes, they have been very accessible. Very good and, as I said, very informative. They have been approachable and very friendly all of them [health care providers]

(Stockholm3, ST207)

Predictability and adequate information are important for men's satisfaction and sense of security

(CG2)

At first, I was told that they would not do any examinations at the hospital, then suddenly I received an appointment for a MRI, it was a little contradictory. Then they scheduled a biopsy as if suddenly there was an opening it came a little abruptly. There was a glitch in the system it was as if the order did not quite add up (Stockholm3)

The Healthcare providers have been very welcoming and nice. They have explained things to me so that I was well prepared before examinations and not left in ignorance. I feel that they have taken care of me in a very professional manner (Stockholm3)

Stepping into the world of the healthcare system

Periodic distress and potential anxiety

In my youth, cancer… cancer was of course synonymous with death then. Now I am quite old, but when I was in my younger years, then there was no help or assistance or drugs. Cancer cures were not very successful at that time. If you got cancer, then as a rule you died. So some of that stays in my old mind, even though I know that things are going the opposite way today with most forms of cancer (PSA^a, ID40)

Men’s experience of distress varies individually. (CG3)

I was very anxious before my first appointment at the urological outpatient clinic. It was not just because of the suspected PCa but rather a fear of pain and the unknown. Thoughts about PCa never left my consciousness, but I was never that worried (PSA^a)

Periodically feelings of distress