1
|
Montgomery L, Misinde C, Komuhangi A, Kawooya AN, Agaba P, McShane CM, Santin O, Apio J, Jenkins C, Githinji F, MacDonald M, Nakaggwa F, Nanyonga RC. Tackling the escalating burden of care in Uganda: a qualitative exploration of the challenges experienced by family carers of patients with chronic non-communicable diseases. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1356. [PMID: 38053176 PMCID: PMC10696811 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10337-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family carers face challenges that could significantly affect their health and the health of those they care for. However, these challenges are not well documented in low-income settings, including Uganda. We explored the challenges of caring for someone with chronic non-communicable disease (NCD) in Uganda. METHODS We conducted a qualitative exploratory study at Hospice Africa, Uganda (an urban setting) and Hampton Health Center (a rural setting) in Uganda in February and March 2021. Family carers (n = 44) were recruited using snowball and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected using focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, gathering family carer perspectives of (a) their caring role (b) their support needs, and (c) attitudes of the wider community. In total, four focus group discussions and 10 individual interviews were completed. RESULTS The average age of carers was 46 years old. The majority of family care was provided by female relatives, who also experienced intersectional disadvantages relating to economic opportunities and employment. Family carers carried a huge burden of care, experiencing significant challenges that affected their physical health, and material and emotional well-being. These challenges also affected the quality of care of the patients for whom they cared. Carers struggled to provide for the basic needs of the patient including the provision of medication and transport to health facilities. Carers received no formal training and limited support to carry out the caring role. They reported that they had little understanding of the patient's illness, or how best to provide care. CONCLUSIONS As NCDs continue to rise globally, the role of family caregivers is becoming more prominent. The need to support carers is an urgent concern. Family carer needs should be prioritised in policy and resource allocation. The need for a carer's toolkit of resources, and the enhancement of community support, have been identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorna Montgomery
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
| | - Cyprian Misinde
- Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alimah Komuhangi
- Institute of Public Health and Management, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angela N Kawooya
- Institute of Public Health and Management, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Peninah Agaba
- Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Judith Apio
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Florence Githinji
- Quality Assurance Office, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mandi MacDonald
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Florence Nakaggwa
- Institute of Public Health and Management, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rose C Nanyonga
- Institute of Public Health and Management, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
- Office of the Vice Chancellor, Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dong X, Yu J, Nie L, Wu Y, Lu Y, Qin Y, Jin Y, Chen Y, Gu C, Gan L, Zhang N. Information Support Provided by Specialized Nurses via Mobile Healthcare App May Improve Treatment Adherence of Breast Cancer Patients: An Observational Study. Semin Oncol Nurs 2023; 39:151511. [PMID: 37880011 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mobile devices facilitate the healthcare management of breast cancer. Meanwhile, specialist nurses play an important role in disease management. We established a smartphone-based app that enables patients to raise questions to specialist nurses. We aimed to evaluate whether the information support provided by specialist nurses via smartphone app could improve the treatment adherence of breast cancer patients. DATA SOURCE Breast cancer patients who received surgery and registered for the app between March 2013 and April 2020 were included. Data related to the use of the app, the number of raised questions, and the specific content of each question were retrieved. Overall, 2675 patients were included, with 560 patients raising questions to specialist nurses via the app. Patients with higher educational levels, postmenopause status, and more advanced diseases were more likely to seek informational support via a smartphone app. The treatment adherence was 86.4%. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that raising questions was associated with better compliance. Regarding the distribution of questions, 78.8% of patients had questions about the treatment schedule and procedure, 65.9% of patients had questions during the adjuvant treatment, and only 19.6% of patients raised questions about follow-up and rehabilitation. After a median follow-up of 44 months, there was no survival difference between patients who raised questions and those who did not. CONCLUSION Seeking information support from specialist nurses was associated with better treatment adherence. The smartphone-based healthcare app enables specialist nurses to provide more conducive service for patients, and validation of this finding in further studies is warranted. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Breast cancer patients were more interested in problems with treatment procedures and schedules. Those who asked questions had better treatment adherence. The smartphone-based app could not only provide patients with a platform to seek information support but also help specialist nurses understand the needs of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Dong
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Physician, Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijing Nie
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiying Wu
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanwen Qin
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yufei Jin
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunyun Chen
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengjia Gu
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Gan
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Specialist nurse, Department of Nursing, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; Head nurse and supervisor, Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ho HT, Bui CL, Santin O, Nguyen HT, Thi Nguyen HL, Do HC, Tran NN, Tran HTT, Nguyen AM, Carter G, Bui HTT, Van Hoang M. Information needs of informal caregivers in caring and rehabilitation for dioxin victims in Vietnam. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1412. [PMID: 37488595 PMCID: PMC10364352 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15095-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health outcomes among Agent Orange/dioxin (dioxin) victims are significant due to many individuals requiring daily assistance, informal care, and rehabilitation support. This study aimed to identify the information needs of informal caregivers of dioxin victims in Vietnam. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in Quynh Phu district, Thai Binh province - an area with a large number of dioxin victims, from June 2019 to June 2020. Quantitative data were collected from 124 caregivers of victims via structured interviews. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interview guides with in-depth interviews (IDI) (n = 36) and two focus group discussions (FGD) (n = 12). RESULTS The results demonstrated that all caregivers of dioxin victims were family members, predominantly older (71.8%), 61.5 years old on average, living on low incomes (87.9%), and were farmers (80.7%). Almost all participants (96.8%) reported having information needs, particularly concerning dioxin's harms, nutrition, dioxin-related policies and rehabilitation, and psychological support for patients. Caregivers reported that they would like to receive information via health staff counselling (85.0%), television (75.0%), and community loudspeaker (65.8%). Notably, the majority of caregivers reported the need for information regarding psychological support (70.0%). These findings are consistent with qualitative data, which identify an urgent need to provide information, especially through health staff and digital resources. CONCLUSION Many families with dioxin victims lived with little support and information, highlighting their high demand for information about care and rehabilitation. Thus, the healthcare system should promote information support, policy, and psychological support for caregivers and victims. An online support system for caregivers and victims is also recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hien Thi Ho
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, UK
| | - Chi Linh Bui
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, UK
| | - Huong Thi Nguyen
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hien Luong Thi Nguyen
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hung Chi Do
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang, Hanoi, Vietnam
- E Central Hospital, 89 Tran Cung st, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nghi Ngoc Tran
- Medical Services Administration Department, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Anh Mai Nguyen
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, 1A Duc Thang, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Gillian Carter
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cooke S, Nelson D, Green H, McPeake K, Gussy M, Kane R. Rapid systematic review on developing web-based interventions to support people affected by cancer. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062026. [PMID: 36691118 PMCID: PMC9454073 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically identify and explore the existing evidence to inform the development of web-based interventions to support people affected by cancer (PABC). DESIGN A rapid review design was employed in accordance with the guidance produced by the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. A rapid review was chosen due to the need for a timely evidence synthesis to underpin the subsequent development of a digital resource (Shared Lives: Cancer) as part of an ongoing funded project. METHODS AND OUTCOMES Keyword searches were performed in MEDLINE to identify peer-reviewed literature that reported primary data on the development of web-based interventions designed to support PABC. The review included peer-reviewed studies published in English with no limits set on publication date or geography. Key outcomes included any primary data that reported on the design, usability, feasibility, acceptability, functionality and user experience of web-based resource development. RESULTS Ten studies were identified that met the pre-specified eligibility criteria. All studies employed an iterative, co-design approach underpinned by either quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods. The findings were grouped into the following overarching themes: (1) exploring current evidence, guidelines and theory, (2) identifying user needs and preferences and (3) evaluating the usability, feasibility and acceptability of resources. Resources should be informed by the experiences of a wide range of end-users taking into consideration current guidelines and theory early in the design process. Resource design and content should be developed around the user's needs and preferences and evaluated through usability, feasibility or acceptability testing using quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods. CONCLUSION The findings of this rapid review provide novel methodological insights into the approaches used to design web-based interventions to support PABC. Our findings have the potential to inform and guide researchers when considering the development of future digital health resources. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The review protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/ucvsz).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Cooke
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - David Nelson
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
- Macmillan Cancer Support, London, UK
| | - Heidi Green
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Kathie McPeake
- Macmillan Cancer Support, London, UK
- NHS Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Lincoln, UK
| | - Mark Gussy
- Lincoln International Institute for Rural Health, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Ros Kane
- School of Health and Social Care, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Su Z, Li X, McDonnell D, Fernandez AA, Flores BE, Wang J. Technology-Based Interventions for Cancer Caregivers: Concept Analysis. JMIR Cancer 2021; 7:e22140. [PMID: 34783664 PMCID: PMC8663574 DOI: 10.2196/22140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer is a taxing chronic disease that demands substantial care, most of which is shouldered by informal caregivers. As a result, cancer caregivers often have to manage considerable challenges that could result in severe physical and psychological health consequences. Technology-based interventions have the potential to address many, if not all, of the obstacles caregivers encounter while caring for patients with cancer. However, although the application of technology-based interventions is on the rise, the term is seldom defined in research or practice. Considering that the lack of conceptual clarity of the term could compromise the effectiveness of technology-based interventions for cancer caregivers, timely research is needed to bridge this gap. Objective This study aims to clarify the meaning of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving and provide a definition that can be used by cancer caregivers, patients, clinicians, and researchers to facilitate evidence-based research and practice. Methods The 8-step concept analysis method by Walker and Avant was used to analyze the concept of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving. PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus were searched for studies that examined technology-based interventions for cancer caregivers. Results The defining attributes of technology-based interventions were recognized as being accessible, affordable, convenient, and user-friendly. On the basis of insights gained on the defining attributes, antecedents to, and consequences of technology-based interventions through the concept analysis process, technology-based interventions were defined as the use of technology to design, develop, and deliver health promotion contents and strategies aimed at inducing or improving positive physical or psychological health outcomes in cancer caregivers. Conclusions This study clarified the meaning of technology-based interventions in the context of cancer caregiving and provided a clear definition that can be used by caregivers, patients, clinicians, and researchers to facilitate evidence-based oncology practice. A clear conceptualization of technology-based interventions lays foundations for better intervention design and research outcomes, which in turn have the potential to help health care professionals address the needs and preferences of cancer caregivers more cost-effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohui Su
- Center on Smart and Connected Health Technologies, School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Xiaoshan Li
- Program of Public Relations and Advertising, Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College, Zhuhai, China
| | - Dean McDonnell
- Department of Humanities, Institute of Technology, Carlow, Ireland
| | - Andrea A Fernandez
- School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Bertha E Flores
- School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jing Wang
- Florida State University College of Nursing, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhao N, Luo X, Zhang H, Dai R, Pan W, Hambly BD, Bao S, Zhu X, Fan J. Cross-Sectional Study on Health Literacy and Internet Accessibility Among Patients With DM in Gansu, China. Front Public Health 2021; 9:692089. [PMID: 34722434 PMCID: PMC8548454 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.692089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To determine the relationship between the health literacy of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and the accessibility of internet surfing for information concerning DM. Methods: A multistage stratified sampling method was utilized to conduct a questionnaire survey on DM health literacy and internet accessibility among 1,563 patients with DM in Gansu Province in 2020. Logistic regression was performed to analyze the factors that influence health literacy and internet accessibility; while the chi-square test was used to compare the differences in needs. Results: Among 1,563 valid questionnaires collected with an effective rate of 95.7%, there were 65.4, 66.3, or 51.1% of patients with DM were found to have good health knowledge, attitudes, or practice levels, respectively. Occupation, income, disease course of DM, and accessibility to the internet were the main factors influencing health literacy. Age, residency, occupation, education, income, and family history of DM were the factors influencing accessibility to internet surfing for DM. The expectations from patients with DM for the capacity to obtain DM information from traditional sources or through internet sources was 1,465 (93.7%) or 1,145 (73.3%), respectively. Patients with DM had a 2-fold higher desire to obtain DM health information from internet media if the patients had access to the internet than those without (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The socioeconomic status and access to the internet were the main contributing factors for health literacy, as socioeconomic status is closely related to access to the internet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhao
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China.,Hospital Infection-Control Department, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xifeng Luo
- Department of Public Health, Pingliang Second People's Hospital, Pingliang, China
| | - Hailiang Zhang
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Runjing Dai
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Weimin Pan
- Department of Mental Health, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Brett D Hambly
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China.,Center for Health Futures, Torrens University Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shisan Bao
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiangdong Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.,Basic Medical School, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jingchun Fan
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, School of Public Health, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Perera SM, O'Callaghan C, Ugalde A, Santin O, Beer C, Prue G, Lane K, Hanna GG, Schofield P. Codesigning a supportive online resource for Australian cancer carers: a thematic analysis of informal carers' and healthcare professionals' perspectives about carers' responsibilities and content needs. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e055026. [PMID: 34598994 PMCID: PMC8488722 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To gather preliminary qualitative data that will assist in the codesign and development of a new informational and supportive website to assist informal cancer carers in Australia. DESIGN AND SETTING Utilising a previously tested codesign process, informal carers' experiences and perspectives, including those of healthcare professionals', were examined via focus groups and/or interviews. Data were analysed via thematic analysis. PARTICIPANTS Rural (n=9) and urban (n=11) carers', and healthcare professionals' (n=8) perspectives were collected. Carers participated in a focus group (n=9) or telephone interview (n=11). Healthcare professionals completed an interview (n=6) or online survey (n=2). RESULTS Rural and urban carers typically felt ill prepared for their multitudinal caregiving responsibilities. Supporting patient-to-healthcare professional liaisons could especially challenge. Carers' biopsychosocial and fiscal strains were affected by patients' hardships and available informal supports. Rural carers described greater social support than urban carers. Both rural and urban carers also described discontentment related to a carer neglecting healthcare system. Both carers and healthcare professionals endorsed the need for a user-friendly, carer-specific website encompassing practical information and resources, peer-driven advice and evidence-based illness information, tailored to the Australian context. CONCLUSIONS Carers and healthcare professionals recognise the pressing need for an Australian, cancer carer-specific online resource. Findings will inform the next phase, where a resource will be designed, developed and tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharnel Miriam Perera
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
- Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Clare O'Callaghan
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Caritas Christi Hospice and Department of Psychosocial Cancer Care, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna Ugalde
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Cassandra Beer
- Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Prevention and Wellbeing, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - G Prue
- Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast School of Nursing and Midwifery, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Katherine Lane
- Cancer Information and Support Services, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gerard G Hanna
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
- Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ho HT, Jenkins C, Ta HQ, Bui CL, Van Hoang M, Santin O. Digital support for caregivers of patients with non-communicable diseases during COVID-19: Lessons from a cancer case study in Vietnam. J Glob Health 2021; 11:03095. [PMID: 34408856 PMCID: PMC8364252 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.11.03095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hien Thi Ho
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chris Jenkins
- Centre for Public Health, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Hung Quang Ta
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Hanoi University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chi Linh Bui
- Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ho HT, Jenkins C, Nghiem HLP, Hoang MV, Santin O. Understanding context: A qualitative analysis of the roles of family caregivers of people living with cancer in Vietnam and the implications for service development in low-income settings. Psychooncology 2021; 30:1782-1788. [PMID: 34101301 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research on the needs of family caregivers of people living with cancer remains disproportionately focused in high income contexts. This research gap adds to the critical challenge on global equitable delivery of cancer care. This study describes the roles of family caregivers of people living with cancer in Vietnam and possible implications for intervention development. METHODS Semi-structured interviews and focus groups with family caregivers (n = 20) and health care providers (n = 22) were conducted in two national oncology hospitals. Findings were verified via workshops with carers (n = 11) and health care professionals (n = 28) in five oncology hospitals representing different regions of Vietnam. Data was analyzed collaboratively by an international team of researchers according to thematic analysis. RESULTS Family caregivers in Vietnam provide an integral role in the delivery of inpatient cancer care. In the hospital environment families are responsible for multiple roles including feeding, hydration, changing, washing, moving, wound care and security of personal belongings. Central to this role is primary decision making in terms of treatment and end-of-life care; relaying information, providing nutritional, emotional and financial support. Families are forced to manage severe complications and health care needs with minimal health literacy and limited health care professional input. CONCLUSIONS Understanding context and the unique roles of family caregivers of people living with cancer is critical in the development of supportive services. As psycho-oncology develops in low and middle income contexts, it is essential that family caregiver roles are of significant importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hien Thi Ho
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Chris Jenkins
- Centre for Public Health, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Royal Victoria Hospital, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jenkins C, Ho HT, Nghiem HPL, Prue G, Lohfeld L, Donnelly M, Hoang MV, Santin O. A qualitative study on the needs of cancer caregivers in Vietnam. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1961403. [PMID: 34435936 PMCID: PMC8405114 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1961403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vietnam has experienced a rapid increase in cancer incidence with many cancers (70%) being diagnosed at a late stage. The majority of physical and psychosocial care is provided by caregivers with minimal professional input. Due to limited resources in hospitals and social and cultural norms regarding caregiving in Vietnam, caregivers provide a range of supportive functions for family members diagnosed with cancer. OBJECTIVES This study sought to provide empirical evidence on the self-identified unmet needs of caregivers of inpatients in national oncology hospitals in Vietnam. METHODS Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted with caregivers (n = 20) and health care providers (n = 22) in national oncology hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Data was collaboratively analysed using thematic analysis. Findings were validated through key stakeholder group discussions with both caregivers and healthcare providers across multiple regions in Vietnam. RESULTS Analysis demonstrated that the burden of informal care is high with many caregivers managing patient's severe and complex health needs with minimal support. Caregivers highlighted four main areas of critical need: (i) challenges in providing long term care, particularly in hospital and in-patient settings, such as accessing comfortable facilities, accommodation and finance; (ii) information needs about cancer, treatment, and nutrition; (iii) support for the emotional impact of cancer; and (iv) training about how to provide care to their family members during treatment and recovery phases. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers provide invaluable support in supporting people with a cancer diagnosis, particularly given wider systemic challenges in delivering cancer services in Vietnam. Increasing visibility and formal support is likely to have both a positive impact upon the health and wellbeing of caregivers, as well as for cancer patients under their care. Given its absence, it is critical that comprehensive psychosocial care is developed for caregivers in Vietnam.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Jenkins
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Hien Thi Ho
- Faculty of Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Gillian Prue
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| | - Lynne Lohfeld
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Michael Donnelly
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Minh Van Hoang
- Faculty of Medicine, Hanoi University of Public Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Olinda Santin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Psychosocial support interventions for cancer caregivers: reducing caregiver burden. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care 2020; 14:247-262. [DOI: 10.1097/spc.0000000000000508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|