Communication Between Black Patients With Cancer and Their Oncology Clinicians: Exploring Factors That Influence Outcome Disparities
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Published on: January 12, 2018
Elizabeth Guimond1, Berhan Getachew1, Timiya S Nolan2
1University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Problem Identification:
Significant cancer disparities exist between Black and White patients. One important contributor to patient outcomes disparities is patient-clinician communication. Conversations between clinicians and Black patients are often shorter and less detailed compared to White patients.
Literature Search:
A systematic literature search was conducted. Databases were searched to identify studies that included (a) participants with a cancer diagnosis, (b) information specific to Black or African American participants, and (c) information on patient-clinician communication. A total of 67 articles underwent full review; 24 studies met inclusion criteria.
Data Evaluation:
Each included study was scored for level of evidence, and common themes were identified across studies using the Matrix Method.
Synthesis:
The following themes were identified: relationship building, building trust, empowering patients for shared decision-making, addressing topics of patient concern, and consideration of community and family.
Implications For Research:
Results identify several ways that nurses can improve communication with Black patients. Research aimed at identifying interpersonal strategies to mitigate cancer disparities is needed.
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