Psychosocial needs of cancer patients living in the Adirondacks: a needs assessment

As the national conversation on solutions to healthcare factors such as affordability and access is likely to intensify, health inequities continue to persist in rural areas. National studies suggest a growing, aging, rural population impacting the revenues of local healthcare facilities, as well as contributing to complexity of care. This paper examines factors influencing the health of rural citizens in upstate New York and offers the results of an initial needs assessment looking at the psychosocial healthcare needs of cancer patients living in the Adirondack Park region. Patients were surveyed regarding their perceptions of psychosocial needs and experiences as a cancer patient. Psychosocial factors while acknowledged as important influences on recovery and healing remain an underdeveloped intervention toward improving the quality of cancer care. Recommendations are made based on the results to enhance the quality of life for this vulnerable population.