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Using qualitative methods to evaluate health service delivery in three rural Colorado communities
H W Halvorson1, D K Pike, F M Reed
1University of Colorado Cancer Center.
Evaluation & the Health Professions
|November 4, 1993
Summary
Cancer is a significant problem in rural Colorado, requiring improved education, community support, and access to care. Addressing these health service delivery issues benefits all residents facing chronic or acute diseases.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
- Rural Health
Background:
- Cancer presents significant challenges in rural communities.
- Understanding community perceptions is crucial for effective health service delivery.
- Pilot studies are essential for identifying specific local health needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze health service delivery problems related to cancer in rural Colorado.
- To gather perceptions from community members, healthcare providers, and patients regarding cancer care.
- To explore potential solutions for improving rural cancer support.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study utilized qualitative and quantitative methods.
- Semistructured phone interviews were conducted with community influentials, healthcare providers, and cancer patients/families.
- Data from three rural Colorado communities were combined, coded, and analyzed for emergent themes.
Main Results:
- Cancer was perceived as a major community problem.
- Key issues identified include needs for public/provider education, lack of community support systems, limited medical networking, transportation barriers, and affordability concerns.
- Identified problems were also relevant to other chronic and acute diseases.
Conclusions:
- Rural communities face multifaceted challenges in cancer care delivery.
- Addressing education, access, and support systems is vital for improving rural health outcomes.
- The mixed-methods approach effectively identified critical health issues while acknowledging diverse perspectives.