Reducing disparity in outcomes for immigrants with cancer: a qualitative assessment of the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally targeted telephone-based supportive care intervention

Abstract

Purpose: Australia has one of the most culturally diverse populations in the world.Immigrant cancer patients' poorer outcomes compared to English-speaking patients confirm the need for culturally sensitive supportive care interventions. The aim of this study was to (1) identify cultural sensitivities important to the acceptability of a telephone-based supportive care intervention (2) identify cultural barriers and facilitators to intervention participation. Methods:Patients and carers attending Chinese or Arabic cancer support groups were recruited. Two focus groups comprising 12 patients and 4 carers and two telephone interviews were conducted in the participants' own language. A semi-structured interview format was utilised to determine potential cultural sensitivities that may influence intervention delivery format as well as patients' willingness to participate in telephone-based supportive care interventions. Content analysis confirmed similar themes across groups. Results:The intervention was viewed favourably as a means of providing information and support in the patient's language. Cultural considerations included assurances of confidentiality, as cancer is not openly discussed within communities. An Initial face-to-face contact was highlighted as the most important factor facilitating participation. Participants also recommended the inclusion of patient-initiated calls as part of the intervention. Conclusions:This study provides cultural insights relevant to the development of a culturally sensitive telephone-based supportive care intervention for Arabic and Chinese speaking cancer patients. Participants highlighted the need for face-to-face contact and inclusion of patient-initiated calls as important methodological considerations.

Integrative review of the supportive care needs of Arab people affected by cancer

“…Of the six included articles, three were conducted in Australia involving samples of Arab, Greek, and Chinese migrants,[91041] two studies were conducted in Jordan with samples comprised of caregivers[3142] whereas the final study from the USA compared the needs of American and Egyptian cancer patients. [43] Four of the studies employed quantitative methodology, with two of the Australian studies using the supportive care needs survey (SCNS), translated into Arabic whereas the Jordanian studies used Arabic translations of the caregiver's need scale,[31] and the family inventory of needs - pediatric - II.…”

“…In a quantitative study conducted by Butow et al .,[9] the unmet needs of Arabic ( n = 57), Greek ( n = 79), Chinese ( n = 114), and Anglo-Australian patients ( n = 319) were compared. A greater proportion of the immigrant sample ( n = 277) reported unmet needs compared to Anglo-Australians.…”

“…[345678] This variation may be related to patient factors (e.g., familiarity with the health system, language proficiency, beliefs, and socioeconomic status); health care provider factors (e.g., discrimination, and cultural competence); and structural barriers (e.g., limitations in the health systems). [9] There is an emerging evidence that highlights that within Australia people with Anglo-English heritage have better cancer-related and psychosocial outcomes than people who are from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. [391011]…”

“…[9] There is an emerging evidence that highlights that within Australia people with Anglo-English heritage have better cancer-related and psychosocial outcomes than people who are from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. [391011]…”

Migrant Health in Cancer: Outcome Disparities and the Determinant Role of Migrant-Specific Variables

“…Patient navigation programs have received increasing attention for their effectiveness in improving access to quality cancer care and system efficiency [25]. A recent study of the feasibility of a culturally targeted patient navigation program has shown that such a service is welcomed by potential consumers, who viewed it as a useful means to cater to their needs and preferences [26].…”