Challenges of mediated communication, disclosure and patient autonomy in cross-cultural cancer care

Evidence concerning the influence of ethnic diversity on clinical encounters in cancer care is sparse. We explored health providers' experiences in this context.

Focus groups were conducted with a purposeful sample of 106 health professionals of differing disciplines, in 18 UK primary and secondary care settings. Qualitative data were analysed using constant comparison and processes for validation.

Communication and the quality of information exchanged with patients about cancer and their treatment was commonly frustrated within interpreter-mediated consultations, particularly those involving a family member. Relatives' approach to ownership of information and decision making could hinder assessment, informed consent and discussion of care with patients. This magnified the complexity of disclosing information sensitively and appropriately at the end of life. Professionals' concern to be patient-centred, and regard for patient choice and autonomy, were tested in these circumstances.

Health professionals require better preparation to work effectively not only with trained interpreters, but also with the common reality of patients' families interpreting for patients, to improve quality of cancer care. Greater understanding of cultural and individual variations in concepts of disclosure, patient autonomy and patient-centredness is needed. The extent to which these concepts may be ethnocentric and lack universality deserves wider consideration.