Systemic Barriers to Optimal Cancer Care in Resource-Limited Countries: Jordanian Healthcare as an Example

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Health Policy

Background:

• Jordan faces significant challenges in providing equitable access to quality cancer care.
• Disparities exist in medical services, infrastructure, and human resources, particularly affecting rural and underserved populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore multifaceted barriers to quality cancer care in Jordan.
• To identify potential solutions and policy recommendations for improving cancer care access and health equity.

Main Methods:

• A literature-based narrative review of four databases.
• Identification of key challenges and solutions from existing studies, reports, and initiatives.

Main Results:

• Key barriers include centralized medical disparities, human resource shortages, geopolitical instability, and socioeconomic inequalities.
• Refugees face unique challenges like late diagnosis and financial constraints.
• Public awareness campaigns struggle with tobacco control and late-stage diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Jordan's context offers insights for regional health equity improvements.
• Recommendations include coordinated prevention, enhanced screening, equitable facility distribution, and leveraging digital health technologies.
• Policy directives aligned with global commitments are crucial for advancing cancer care.