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Patient COUNTS: A pilot navigation program for Asian American cancer patients
Janet N Chu1,2, Janice Y Tsoh2,3, Salma Shariff-Marco4
1Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco.
Asian American Journal of Psychology
|October 10, 2024
Summary
This pilot study provided culturally-tailored patient navigation for Asian American cancer patients, finding the program culturally appropriate and recommendable, though quality of life remained lower than the general population.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Services Research
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Asian American cancer patients encounter significant barriers in accessing cancer care.
- Limited understanding exists regarding the specific navigational needs of this population.
- Culturally and linguistically appropriate support is crucial for improving cancer care delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot a culturally and linguistically appropriate patient navigation program for Asian American adults with newly diagnosed colorectal, liver, or lung cancer.
- To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary impact of patient navigation on cancer care experiences.
- To identify the unmet needs and challenges faced by Asian American cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving Asian American adults (21+ years) with stage I-III colorectal, liver, or lung cancer in the Northern California Bay Area.
- Participants received support from a language-concordant patient navigator for 6 months.
- Surveys assessed sociodemographics, healthcare access, quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General [FACT-G]), and cancer care needs at baseline, 3, and 6 months.
Main Results:
- The study enrolled 24 participants (mean age 65 years; 62% male; 67% Chinese speakers; 75% limited English proficiency).
- 67% completed the program, and 75% completed standard cancer treatment.
- Average FACT-G scores showed a slight decline over 6 months, remaining lower than the general adult cancer population; participants found the program culturally appropriate and recommendable.
Conclusions:
- Patient navigation can be delivered in a culturally appropriate manner to Asian American cancer patients.
- Despite program satisfaction, participants reported lower quality of life, indicating persistent challenges in cancer care.
- Further research is essential to enhance the quality of cancer care for Asian American patients and address underlying disparities.
