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de Groot A, Brown B, Lindsay D, Gall A, Hewlett N, Hickman A, Garvey G. 'How Your Spirit Is Travelling'-Understanding First Nations Peoples' Experiences of Living Well with and after Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:798. [PMID: 38929044 PMCID: PMC11203506 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
As the number of people living with cancer increases, it is important to understand how people can live well with and after cancer. First Nations people diagnosed with cancer in Australia experience survival disparities relating to health service accessibility and a lack of understanding of cultural needs and lived experiences. This study aimed to amplify the voices of First Nations individuals impacted by cancer and advance the development of a culturally informed care pathway. Indigenist research methodology guided the relational and transformative approach of this study. Participants included varied cancer experts, including First Nations people living well with and after cancer, health professionals, researchers, and policy makers. Data were collected through online Yarning circles and analysed according to an inductive thematic approach. The experience of First Nations people living well with and after cancer is inextricably connected with family. The overall themes encompass hope, family, and culture and the four priority areas included the following: strength-based understanding of cancer, cancer information, access to healthcare and support, and holistic cancer services. Respect for culture is interwoven throughout. Models of survivorship care need to integrate family-centred cancer care to holistically support First Nations people throughout and beyond their cancer journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneliese de Groot
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney 2113, Australia
| | - Bena Brown
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
- Southern Queensland Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, Queensland Health, Brisbane 4077, Australia
| | - Daniel Lindsay
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, Australia
| | - Alana Gall
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore 2480, Australia
| | - Nicole Hewlett
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
| | - Amy Hickman
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Gail Garvey
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia; (B.B.); (D.L.); (A.G.); (N.H.); (A.H.); (G.G.)
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Paterson C, Roberts C, Blackburn J, Jojo N, Northam HL, Wallis E, Hind A, Caulfield R, Barratt M, Toohey K, Kavanagh PS, Bacon R, Wilson RL. Understanding the needs and preferences for cancer care among First Nations people: An integrative review. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:1776-1812. [PMID: 38018290 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15968] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM This systematic review aimed to identify the needs and preferences for cancer care services among Australian First Nations people. DESIGN Integrative review. DATA SOURCES An integrative review was conducted. A wide range of search terms were used to increase the sensitivity and specificity of the searches in electronic databases. Methodological quality assessment, data extraction, was conducted independently by two reviewers, and a narrative synthesis was conducted. RESULTS Forty-two studies were included. A total of 2965 Australian First Nations adults, both men and women of various ages across the lifespan, were represented; no First Nations children affected by cancer were represented in the studies. Three themes emerged which included: (1) discrimination, racism and trauma, resulting from colonization, directly impacted First National people's cancer care experience; (2) cultural ways of knowing, being and doing are fundamental to how First Nations people engage with cancer care services; and (3) First Nations people need culturally safe person-centred cancer care services that address practical needs. CONCLUSION Most participants represented in this review experienced discrimination, racism and trauma, resulting from colonization, which directly negatively impacted Aboriginal peoples' cancer care experience. While the Optimal Cancer Pathway (OCP) was launched in Australia several years ago, people with cancer may continue to experience distressing unmet care needs. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Our team includes both First Nations people, non-First Nations researchers and healthcare professionals with expertise in cancer care. The researchers employed decolonizing restorative approaches to ensure voice, respect, accountability and reciprocity in this review work. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Members of the multidisciplinary team including nurses and policymakers should reflect on these findings, ensure that they have up-to-date cultural safety training and stand together with Indigenous and non-Indigenous cancer leaders to take proactive steps to stamp out and dismantle oppression in health, and safely implement the OCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Paterson
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, UK
| | - C Roberts
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - J Blackburn
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - N Jojo
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - H L Northam
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - E Wallis
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - A Hind
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - R Caulfield
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - M Barratt
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - K Toohey
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - P S Kavanagh
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Justice and Society, University of South Australia, Magill, South Australia, Australia
| | - R Bacon
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - R L Wilson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Newcastle, Gosford, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Nursing, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Descendent of the Wiradjuri Nation (First Nations Person), New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Nursing, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Henningham M, Gilroy J, McGlone J, Meehan D, Nila F, McAtamney A, Buchanan T. Utilising the CREATE quality appraisal tool to analyse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' involvement and reporting of cancer research in Australia. Aust N Z J Public Health 2024; 48:100142. [PMID: 38574430 DOI: 10.1016/j.anzjph.2024.100142] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander involvement in research focusing on cancer experiences using an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander quality appraisal tool (the QAT). METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' experiences associated with cancer, recently published elsewhere. We then appraised articles for the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led research, community consultation, and involvement. RESULTS 91 articles were appraised. A lack of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led research and consultation was reported in the majority of articles, only 10 (11%) demonstrated success across seven (50%) or more questions of the QAT. CONCLUSIONS This review underscores the need for anti-racist research and publication practices that actively engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and researchers. This approach is vital to enhance cancer outcomes within these communities. IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH To advance and prioritise appropriate involvement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in cancer research, the onus must be on 'systems owners,' including academic journals and institutions, to require and report genuine engagement as standard practice. Researchers will produce higher-calibre research with a strengths-based focus, advancing the cause of equitable research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Henningham
- Charles Perkins Centre and Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - John Gilroy
- Charles Perkins Centre and Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | | | - Drew Meehan
- Cancer Council Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Farhana Nila
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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Gilroy J, Henningham M, Meehan D, Nila F, McGlone J, McAtamney A, Whittaker K, Brown B, Varlow M, Buchanan T. Systematic review of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' experiences and supportive care needs associated with cancer. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:523. [PMID: 38378574 PMCID: PMC10877816 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18070-3] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent disparities exist between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (the Indigenous peoples of Australia) and non-Indigenous Australians associated with cancer, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experiencing a longer time to treatment, higher morbidity rates, and higher mortality rates. This systematic review aimed to investigate findings and recommendations in the literature about the experiences and supportive care needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with cancer in Australia. METHODS A qualitative systematic review was conducted using thematic analysis. Database searches were conducted in CINAHL, Informit, MEDLINE, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2000 and December 2021. There were 91 included studies which were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The included studies reported on the experiences of cancer and supportive care needs in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. RESULTS Six key themes were determined: Culture, family, and community; cancer outcomes; psychological distress; access to health care; cancer education and awareness; and lack of appropriate data. Culture was seen as a potential facilitator to achieving optimal cancer care, with included studies highlighting the need for culturally safe cancer services and the routine collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status in healthcare settings. CONCLUSION Future work should capitalize on these findings by encouraging the integration of culture in healthcare settings to increase treatment completion and provide a positive experience for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Gilroy
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Mandy Henningham
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Drew Meehan
- Cancer Council Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
| | - Farhana Nila
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Bena Brown
- Inala Indigenous Health Service, Metro South Health, Inala, QLD, 4077, Australia
| | - Megan Varlow
- Cancer Council Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
| | - Tanya Buchanan
- Cancer Council Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
- School of Health and Society, Faculty of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
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De Zilva S, Walker T, Palermo C, Brimblecombe J. Culturally safe health care practice for Indigenous Peoples in Australia: A systematic meta-ethnographic review. J Health Serv Res Policy 2021; 27:74-84. [PMID: 34875923 DOI: 10.1177/13558196211041835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Culturally safe health care services contribute to improved health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in Australia. Yet there has been no comprehensive systematic review of the literature on what constitutes culturally safe health care practice. This gap in knowledge contributes to ongoing challenges providing culturally safe health services and policy. This review explores culturally safe health care practice from the perspective of Indigenous Peoples as recipients of health care in Western high-income countries, with a specific focus on Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. METHODS A systematic meta-ethnographic review of peer-reviewed literature was undertaken across five databases: Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, PsychINFO, CINAHL Plus and Informit. Eligible studies included Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples receiving health care in Australia, had a focus on exploring health care experiences, and a qualitative component to study design. Two authors independently determined study eligibility (5554 articles screened). Study characteristics and results were extracted and quality appraisal was conducted. Data synthesis was conducted using meta-ethnography methodology, contextualised by health care setting. RESULTS Thirty-four eligible studies were identified. Elements of culturally safe health care identified were inter-related and included personable two-way communication, a well-resourced Indigenous health workforce, trusting relationships and supportive health care systems that are responsive to Indigenous Peoples' cultural knowledge, beliefs and values. CONCLUSIONS These elements can form the basis of interventions and strategies to promote culturally safe health care practice and systems in Australia. Future cultural safety interventions need to be rigorously evaluated to explore their impact on Indigenous Peoples' satisfaction with health care and improvements in health care outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie De Zilva
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, 22457Monash University, Victoria, VIC, Australia
| | - Troy Walker
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, 22457Monash University, Victoria, VIC, Australia.,Deakin University, 22457Geelong, Australia
| | - Claire Palermo
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, 22457Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Brimblecombe
- Department of Nutrition Dietetics and Food, 22457Monash University, Victoria, VIC, Australia.,22457Menzies School of Health Research, Australia
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Fitzadam S, Lin E, Creighton N, Currow DC. Lung, breast and bowel cancer treatment for Aboriginal people in New South Wales: a population-based cohort study. Intern Med J 2021; 51:879-890. [PMID: 32638476 PMCID: PMC8362177 DOI: 10.1111/imj.14967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aboriginal Australians have higher cancer mortality than non-Aboriginal Australians. Lower rates of cancer treatment among Aboriginal people can contribute to this. AIMS To investigate demographic, clinical and access factors associated with lung, breast and bowel cancer treatment for Aboriginal people compared with non-Aboriginal people in New South Wales, Australia. METHODS Population-based cohort study using linked routinely collected datasets, including all diagnoses of primary lung, breast or bowel cancer from January 2009 to June 2012. Treatment (surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy) within 6 months from diagnosis was measured. Access was measured using minimum distance to radiotherapy or hospital with a cancer-specific multidisciplinary team, visit to a specialist and possession of private health insurance. Logistic regression modelling was employed. RESULTS There were 587 Aboriginal and 34 015 non-Aboriginal people diagnosed with cancer. For lung cancer, significantly fewer Aboriginal than non-Aboriginal people received surgery (odds ratio 0.46, 95% confidence interval 0.29-0.73, P < 0.001) or any treatment (surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy; odds ratio 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.47-0.88, P = 0.006) after adjusting for sex, age, disease extent and comorbidities. They were less likely to have an attendance with a surgeon (27.0%, 62/230 vs 33.3%, 2865/8597, P = 0.04) compared with non-Aboriginal people. There were no significant differences in cancer treatment for Aboriginal people compared with non-Aboriginal people for breast or bowel cancers after adjusting for patient sex, age, disease extent and comorbidities. CONCLUSION Aboriginal people were significantly less likely to receive surgery for lung cancer than non-Aboriginal people and had fewer attendances with a surgeon, suggesting a need to strengthen referral pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Fitzadam
- Cancer Services and Information, Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Enmoore Lin
- Cancer Services and Information, Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicola Creighton
- Cancer Services and Information, Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David C Currow
- Chief Cancer Officer, Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Garvey G, Cunningham J, Mayer C, Letendre A, Shaw J, Anderson K, Kelly B. Psychosocial Aspects of Delivering Cancer Care to Indigenous People: An Overview. JCO Glob Oncol 2021; 6:148-154. [PMID: 32031444 PMCID: PMC6998016 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.19.00130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, a growing body of evidence has reported significant disparities in cancer outcomes between indigenous and nonindigenous people. Although some effort is being made to address these disparities, relatively little attention has been directed toward identifying and focusing on the psychosocial aspects of cancer care for indigenous patients, which are critical components in improving cancer care and outcomes. The purpose of this article is to describe the results of a scoping review of the psychosocial aspects of cancer care for indigenous people. We highlight considerations in undertaking research in this field with indigenous people and the implications for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Garvey
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Joan Cunningham
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Carole Mayer
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.,Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Angeline Letendre
- Alberta Cancer Prevention Legacy Fund, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joanne Shaw
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate Anderson
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Brian Kelly
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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Stafford L, Sinclair M, Gerber K, Collins L, Newman L, Saunders C, Ives A, Mason KD, Peate M, Lippey J, Umstad MP, Shanahan K, Little R. Cancer during pregnancy: A qualitative study of healthcare experiences of Australian women. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13425. [PMID: 33569843 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify features enhancing the quality of healthcare experiences for women with gestational cancer, and explore the impact of the heterogeneous Australian healthcare system on those experiences. METHODS Semi-structured, qualitative interviews were conducted with women diagnosed with any cancer during pregnancy in the last five years. Recruitment occurred during 2018-2019 via social media and professional, clinical and community networks. Questions related to women's experiences of their healthcare, wellbeing and psychosocial needs. Interviews were analysed thematically. RESULTS Study participants (n = 23) received treatment in the private sector (n = 10), public sector (n = 8), or both (n = 5). Five interview themes were found: Control over healthcare; Trust in clinicians, hospitals and systems; Coordination of care; An uncommon diagnosis; Holistic, future-oriented care. Women were most likely to have had a positive healthcare experience when (a)care was well-coordinated and adjusted to meet their unique needs/challenges, and (b)women perceived their care went beyond their immediate medical needs and encompassed future psychosocial wellbeing, including preparation for postpartum challenges. CONCLUSION Existing 'usual care' in the public and/or private sector for both the pregnancy and the cancer is insufficient to meet these women's needs. Prioritising psychological wellbeing including psychosocial needs, and communication and planning around fertility and postnatal challenges are essential for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Stafford
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Sinclair
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Katrin Gerber
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Ageing Research Collaboration, National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Leah Collins
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Louise Newman
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Fiona Stanley and St John of God Subiaco Hospitals, Subiaco, WA, Australia
| | - Angela Ives
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Kylie D Mason
- Parkville Integrated Haematology Service, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Peate
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Lippey
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia.,Department of Surgery, The Northern Hospital, Epping, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark P Umstad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kerry Shanahan
- Breast Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ruth Little
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Jones B, Heslop D, Harrison R. Seldom heard voices: a meta-narrative systematic review of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples healthcare experiences. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:222. [PMID: 33317556 PMCID: PMC7734845 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01334-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is well established that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations face considerable health inequities, exacerbated by poorer healthcare quality. Patient experience is recognised as a major contributing factor to healthcare quality and outcomes, therefore, enriched knowledge of the patient experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations is critical to redress health inequities. This review synthesises evidence of the healthcare experiences amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients through a metanarrative synthesis of qualitative literature. Methods A systematic search strategy was developed and applied to six electronic databases between January 2000 and July 2019. Titles and abstracts were screened before applying the inclusion criteria to full text articles. A meta-narrative synthesis was undertaken. Results Fifty-four publications were identified from four research traditions; each with a unique conceptualisation of patient experience. Three themes emerged that demonstrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patient experiences are informed by 1) beliefs about wellbeing and healthcare provision, 2) their level of trust in the healthcare system, and 3) individual and community health system interactions. The findings highlight a range of aspects of patient experience that were important to participating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the included studies but not captured currently in health system surveys. Conclusion This review highlights the influence of beliefs about health and wellbeing on the patient experience amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations in the Australian health system. Patient experiences were informed by past experience and their trust in the health system. The different factors influencing patient experience and the gravity of their influence must be considered in current approaches to capturing patient experience data collection methods. Trial registration PROSPERO (ID: CRD42019134765).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Jones
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Heslop
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Reema Harrison
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Ristevski E, Thompson S, Kingaby S, Nightingale C, Iddawela M. Understanding Aboriginal Peoples' Cultural and Family Connections Can Help Inform the Development of Culturally Appropriate Cancer Survivorship Models of Care. JCO Glob Oncol 2020; 6:124-132. [PMID: 32031446 PMCID: PMC6998014 DOI: 10.1200/jgo.19.00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship experiences of Aboriginal people in the Gippsland region, Victoria, Australia, and identify factors critical to the development of a culturally appropriate cancer survivorship model of care. PATIENTS AND METHODS Yarning circles were used to capture the stories of 15 people diagnosed with cancer and/or those of family members. Yarning circles were conducted in two locations in the Gippsland region. Sessions were facilitated by an Aboriginal Elder, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis of the data were triangulated among three researchers and incorporated researcher reflexivity. RESULTS Cultural connections and family were critical supports on the cancer journey. Putting the needs of the family first and caring for sick family members were more important than an individual's own health. There was "no time to grieve" for one's own cancer diagnosis and look after oneself. Cancer was a private experience; however, the constancy of deaths highlighted the importance of raising family awareness. Health professionals did not always understand the importance of people's cultural and family supports in their treatment and recovery. There were negatives attitudes in hospitals when family come to visit, seeing family as too large and overstaying visiting times. Health professionals did not seek family assistance with communication of information to family members whose literacy level was low, nor did they include family in treatment decision-making. Access to services depended on family support with transport, finances, and family responsibilities, often resulting in lapses in treatment and follow-up services. CONCLUSION Understanding the importance of Aboriginal peoples' cultural and family connections can help to inform the development of culturally safe cancer survivorship models of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sharon Kingaby
- Latrobe Community Health Service, Traralgon, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Taylor EV, Haigh MM, Shahid S, Garvey G, Cunningham J, Holloway M, Thompson SC. Australian cancer services: a survey of providers’ efforts to meet the needs of Indigenous patients. Aust N Z J Public Health 2018; 42:547-552. [DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emma V. Taylor
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia
| | - Margaret M. Haigh
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shaouli Shahid
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia
- Centre for Aboriginal Studies, Curtin University, Western Australia
| | - Gail Garvey
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory
| | - Joan Cunningham
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Northern Territory
| | - Michele Holloway
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia
| | - Sandra C. Thompson
- Western Australian Centre for Rural Health, The University of Western Australia
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